Christopher Yost

Christopher Yost is a Professor and Vice-President (Research) at the University of Regina's Faculty of Science, Department of Biology. His research focuses on environmental microbiology and bacterial genetics, with two core themes: fecal pollution indicators in agricultural ecosystems and cell envelope function in rhizobia. He leads the Yost Lab, which uses 'omics' technologies to address agricultural challenges and antibiotic resistance. Notably, he received the 2017 CSM Murray Award for Career Achievement.

His lab investigates how bacterial cell envelopes contribute to symbiosis and environmental stress tolerance, particularly in rhizobia-legume interactions. Research on fecal contamination emphasizes policy-relevant solutions to mitigate waterborne pathogens. The lab also explores antibiotic resistance dynamics in wastewater treatment systems and Arctic environments.

Recent studies highlight metagenomic analyses of microbial communities, antibiotic resistance gene distribution, and innovative wastewater treatment approaches. Collaborative projects include global urban virome surveillance and biobed system impacts on genetic mobility.

• Key contributions: Pioneering fecal source tracking methods, advancing rhizobia genomics, and developing sustainable wastewater solutions
• Lab infrastructure: Molecular microbiology facilities with omics capabilities
• Research networks: Partnerships in Arctic environmental science and global health initiatives

His work bridges fundamental microbiology with applied environmental and agricultural solutions, addressing pressing issues like waterborne disease prevention and sustainable agriculture.