Dr Natalie Garton

Supervisor Details

Contact Details

Department of Respiratory Sciences, University of Leicester

Scientific Background

Research Interests

I investigate bacterial lipid metabolism, with particular emphasis on Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the agent of tuberculosis, and my work may open up new opportunities for drug development and infection control. My research focuses on how disease-causing species utilise the lipids of infected host cells, and how this impacts the bacterial metabolism and lipid content, particularly accumulation of lipid bodies. I aim to understand differences in neutral lipid metabolism between different strains. During infection, the resulting bacterial lipid composition and related physical characteristics, may affect bacterial properties likely to have an impact on disease transmission and the treatment of infection. My interest in characterising lipid bodies and associated metabolic pathways extends to the distantly related equine pathogen Rhodococcus equi and Gram negative, nosocomial pathogen Acinetobacter baumannii. Both these pathogens persist in the environment and the role of lipid bodies in supporting this is under investigation.

Understanding how mycobacteria enter into and adapt to the aerosol state and how this may impact infectivity is an additional interest.

Supervision Style

In three words or phrases: Supportive, detail-orientated, organised.

Provision of Training

I would be involved in your initial training and training in specialised techniques. I would have the expectation that you would become more independent thereafter, but I would always be available for advice and guidance if needed.

Progression Monitoring and Management

We will discuss progression in supervision meetings and set goals together. Ultimately, I would like to set your own goals for progression and I will support and guide you in this. Problems will be discussed together to plan best ways forward.

Communication

I respond promptly to e-mails. I am also happy to discuss in person any problems or issues you may be having with, or that might impact your research.

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 fortnight

In year 2 of PhD study

At least once per fortnight

In year 3 of PhD study

At least once per fortnight

These meetings will be face to face, and although I have an open door policy, my pattern of being contactable for an instant response is not predictable.

Work Pattern

Certain tasks in my lab need to occur at set times, and students need to be able to commit to a rota/timetable shared with other members of the team.

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:

Understanding the roles of triacylglycerol in modulating mycobacterial growth and biophysical properties

Co-supervisor on a project with Dr Helen O'Hare.

Previous Projects (2023-24)

Primary supervisor for:

Understanding the roles of triacylglycerol in modulating mycobacterial growth and biophysical properties