Dr Doug Browning

Supervisor Details

Contact Details

Scientific Background

Research Interests

Dr Doug Browning is a lecturer in the School of Biosciences at Aston University. His research focuses on three main areas: 1) how pathogenic bacteria regulate gene expression, 2) how the outer membranes of Gram-negative bacteria are assembled and how they can be disrupted and 3) the use of synthetic biology to design new bacterial recombinant protein expression systems.

Scientific Inspiration

During my Ph.D. and postdoc positions I spent a lot of time reading papers by many of the greats in microbiology, molecular biology and biochemistry, for example Dale Kaiser, Dick Burgess and Venki Ramakrishnan. In many ways their research was important for my development as a scientist, and it was great to meet these scientists at conference and hear the enthusiasm with which they talk about their science.

Research Groups

Biosciences Research Group

Supervision Style

In three words or phrases: Enthusiastic, supportive and collaborative

Provision of Training

I prefer to take responsibility for your technical training at first, leading to more independence later. As you develop as a scientist you will more and more be able to choose the direction that your project will take, focussing of things that you find really interesting and are passionate about.

Progression Monitoring and Management

I like to be kept up to date, and I will set out my expectations of your progression on a monthly basis. I am here for advice and guidance to help you reach the goals and we will always have time to discuss a plan of action together.

Communication

I am happy to discuss any issues that are impacting your ability to fulfil your potential or our expectations. I do email my team out of hours; however, I will not expect you to do the same. I believe it is important to have a good work/life balance

PhD Students can expect scheduled meetings with me:

In a group meeting

At least once per week

In year 1 of PhD study

At least once per week

In year 2 of PhD study

At least once per week

In year 3 of PhD study

At least once per fortnight (though more if required or requested)

These meetings will be mainly face to face, and I am usually contactable for an instant response on every working day.

Working Pattern

The timing of work in my lab is completely flexible, and (other than attending pre-arranged meetings), I expect students to manage their own time.

Notice Period for Feedback

I need at least 1 week’s notice to provide feedback on written work of up to 5000 words.

MIBTP Project Details

Previous Projects (2024-25)

Primary supervisor for:

Antimicrobial resistance and gene regulation in Enteroaggregative Escherichia coli Expression of recombinant membrane proteins in Escherichia coli for therapeutic use

Previous Projects (2023-24)

Primary supervisor for:

Antimicrobial resistance and gene regulation in Enteroaggregative Escherichia coli