Hannah Gavin

Hannah Gavin is a Lecturer in the Department of Biology at Tufts University, affiliated with the School of Arts and Sciences. Her research focuses on molecular microbiology and microbial ecology, with a specialization in bacteriophages of marine and soil bacteria. She explores phage-host interactions, potential phage therapies, and phage applications in undergraduate education.

Education:

• PhD in Life Sciences - Microbiology (2018), Northwestern University
• B.S. in Biochemistry (2012), University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill

Research emphasizes bacteriophage genomics and their roles in ecosystems and medicine. Key themes include phage diversity, phage therapy development, and integrating phage research into classroom-based projects. Recent work examines evolutionary dynamics of bacterial resistance mechanisms and the structure-function relationships of Vibrio vulnificus MARTX toxins.

Teaching and outreach efforts bridge scientific research with educational innovation, particularly through course-based research experiences. She collaborates across institutions to advance microbiology education and public engagement with science.