John Webster

Dr John Webster is an Industry Fellow at the Australian Institute for Microbiology and Infection, University of Technology Sydney (UTS), affiliated with the Faculty of Science. His research focuses on microbiology, plant pathology, and diagnostic methods for bacterial and fungal pathogens. He specializes in genomic analysis of pathogens like Xylella, Xanthomonas, and Erysipelothrix, emphasizing species identification, antimicrobial resistance mechanisms, and biosecurity applications.

His work includes developing diagnostic assays (e.g., qPCR, LAMP) for pathogen detection, describing novel bacterial species, and studying pathogen diversity in agricultural and environmental contexts. Collaborations often involve genomic studies to address challenges in plant health and animal disease surveillance. Recent projects have contributed to Australia’s national protocols for Xylella detection and improved understanding of pathogen evolution through mobile genetic elements.

Key research areas span bacterial taxonomy, pathogen genomics, and molecular diagnostics. While no awards are explicitly mentioned, his contributions to pathogen detection and biosecurity reflect significant academic impact.