Colleen McGannon (Graduate Fellow)
Current Degree
PhD in Department of Molecular Genetics, Biochemistry, and Microbiology from the University of Cincinnati
Previous Degrees
Bachelors of Science in Biology
Ashland University
Biography
Colleen studies the bacteria E. coli O157:H7, which was recently linked to the spinach outbreak.
E. coli O157:H7 produces a toxin, and this toxin causes severe disease and death among children. It has been
shown that certain antibiotics can cause the bacteria to produce very high levels of toxin. Hence,
administration of the wrong antibiotics to patients infected with E. coli O157:H7 may result in their death.
Therefore, Colleen is testing a panel of antibiotics commonly administered to patients exhibiting the symptoms
of E. coli O157:H7 infection to determine, which, if any, are safe for use. Having enjoyed her prior teaching
positions, such as with the Saturday Science Academy through the College of Medicine, Colleen is looking forward
to working under the guidance of teachers to bring her experiences into the classroom through the STEP program.
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