Byeonghwa Jeon

Dr. Byeonghwa Jeon is an Associate Professor in the Division of Environmental Health Sciences at the University of Minnesota. His research focuses on antibiotic resistance mechanisms, stress tolerance in foodborne pathogens, and development of antimicrobial alternatives such as bacteriophages and antioxidant-based therapies.

• Education:
  • PhD in Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Tokyo, Japan
  • MSc in Food Science and Biotechnology, Lund University, Sweden
  • BSc in Food Science and Technology, Seoul National University, Korea
  • Postdoctorate in Veterinary Microbiology and Preventive Medicine, Iowa State University

Dr. Jeon's research employs molecular biology, genomics, and microbial ecology to study Campylobacter jejuni, a leading enteric pathogen, with emphasis on stress responses, biofilm formation, and antibiotic resistance. His work aims to develop interventions to disrupt bacterial survival pathways and reduce public health impacts.

Recent publications highlight his exploration of antioxidant-mediated antimicrobial synergy, cold tolerance mechanisms, and phage-based control of multidrug-resistant bacteria. Key collaborations include researchers from South Korea, Canada, and the U.S.

Areas of investigation include:

• Stress tolerance in foodborne pathogens
• Molecular mechanisms of antibiotic resistance
• Bacteriophage applications for STEC and Salmonella
• Oxidative stress and biofilm regulation
• Wall teichoic acid roles in Listeria
• Adjuvant strategies for bacitracin against MRSA