Mark Schembri

Professor Mark Schembri is a prominent microbiologist at the University of Queensland, holding positions as Centre Director of the Centre for Superbug Solutions and the Institute for Molecular Bioscience, and Professor in the School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences. His research focuses on combating multi-drug resistant pathogens, particularly Escherichia coli, with an emphasis on understanding virulence mechanisms, biofilm formation, and antibiotic resistance. He collaborates internationally with institutions like the Pasteur Institute and the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute.

• Education: PhD from Monash University

His research interests include medical microbiology, antibiotic resistance, and bacterial pathogenesis, with a focus on urinary tract infections and sepsis. Key achievements include tracking the global spread of drug-resistant E. coli clones and identifying therapeutic targets through genomic and functional studies.

Recent articles highlight advancements in understanding E. coli epidemiology, phage therapy, and the role of zinc in host defense. Awards include the Frank Fenner Award and ASM BacPath Oration Award, alongside significant NHMRC and ARC funding ($15M+ since 2014). He holds patents for therapeutic agents and vaccine antigens.

Supervision includes numerous PhD students focusing on biofilm dynamics, virulence factors, and antibiotic resistance. His lab teams collaborate across disciplines to address global health challenges posed by superbugs.