Dr. Thomas Bartlett, a new Principal Investigator in the Wadsworth Center’s Division of Genetics, was invited to present his research at the annual Dartmouth College Microbiology & Molecular Pathogenesis Program (M2P2) Retreat, held February 12–13, 2026, in Fairlee, Vermont. The M2P2 retreat convenes scientists from across New England, New York, and eastern Canada to share cutting-edge research in microbiology and infectious disease. In his seminar, “LOST IN TIME AND SPACE: How does Staph aureus decide when and where to divide?” Dr. Bartlett described his work on the cell division mechanisms of Staphylococcus aureus, a major bacterial pathogen responsible for a wide range of infections, and increasingly resistant to antibiotics.
Dr Bartlett’s research matters given the accelerating crisis of antibiotic-resistant bacteria which a significant public health threat. For this reason, identifying new antibiotic targets is essential. Because bacteria propagate through cell division, the molecular machinery that governs this process represents a high-value target for novel drug discovery strategies. By clarifying how S. aureus spatially and temporally regulates division, Dr. Bartlett’s work may inform next-generation antimicrobial development.
Dr. Bartlett returned to Albany with valuable insights gained from scientific discussions and exposure to unpublished research presented at the retreat. He also established new collaborations with investigators from regional institutions, strengthening the Wadsworth Center’s research network and enhancing its capacity to advance innovative strategies to combat antibiotic-resistant pathogens.