Biomaterials and Microbiome Interface

The group brings together microbiology, biomaterials science and translational experimental models to address a central challenge in microbiome medicine: how to deliver, support and control beneficial microbial functions in complex human environments. Our research spans next-generation probiotics, precision prebiotics, oral microbiome transplantation and microbiome-directed biomaterial delivery systems, with a strong focus on both gut and oral health.

Working across the translational pathway, we combine formulation science, anaerobic microbiology, biofilm and bioreactor models, organoid and mucosal systems, and microbiome analytics to develop and evaluate new therapeutic strategies. This enables us to investigate not only which microbes and microbial functions are beneficial, but also how they can be stabilised, delivered and engrafted effectively in clinically relevant settings.

Our work is closely aligned with major unmet challenges in chronic inflammatory disease, antimicrobial resistance and microbiome restoration. A particular strength of the group is the development of enabling delivery platforms for oxygen-sensitive and hard-to-culture commensal bacteria, alongside scaffold-based and encapsulation-based technologies that support targeted microbiome modulation.

The group sits within a strongly interdisciplinary ecosystem and works with academic, clinical and industrial partners to accelerate translation from mechanistic discovery to therapeutic application. Through this integrated approach, the group aims to develop scalable, clinically relevant microbiome interventions that can improve human health outcomes.

Full details of the group's current research projects can be found on the group website: