Vancomycin is the antibiotic we rely on for the treatment of major infections due to bacteria that are resistant to other antibiotics (MRSA). Vancomycin is monitored in each patient to individualise the dose. This is done to improve treatment efficacy, reduce adverse effects and to prevent antibiotic resistance. This project will introduce a vancomycin guideline and train hospital staff to use vancomycin safely, effectively and to minimise the development of resistance.
Nanoengineered gradient substrata as a novel approach for understanding infection mechanisms. This project will advance our understanding of how bacteria colonise surfaces and will also inform the development of novel antibacterial coatings and diagnostic tools for device-associated infections, which have a significant impact on patients and are a huge burden to the healthcare system.