Infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria are a growing challenge. My research program aims to understand the mechanisms of bacterial persistence and spread. We are using an amoeba as an alternative host to study bacterial virulence, offering manipulative advantages over traditional hosts. Amoebae and other protozoa could also promote bacterial propagation through phenomena such as bacterial coating. Our research is therefore focused on identifying virulence factors via the amoeba and studying bacterial-protozoal interactions to develop alternative treatments to antibiotics. We also explore various aspects of microbial ecology, while being active in the popularization of microbiology.