Dr Robert Ferguson

Biography

I investigate the interactions between the environment, microbial communities, and their implications for human and environmental health, with a particular focus on bioaerosols and antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Bioaerosols—airborne microorganisms—play a pivotal role in the Earth system and climate, while also posing significant health risks. These microorganisms can act as sensitisers, triggering respiratory diseases such as asthma, or as vectors for infectious agents like influenza. To better understand bioaerosols and their associated health risks in both indoor and outdoor air, I employ advanced molecular techniques, such as DNA sequencing. In addition to bioaerosols, I study the rising tide of AMR, particularly in the air and water. The quality of aquatic environments, such as rivers and coastal waters, is of growing importance. I collaborate with local stakeholders in Essex to monitor microbial water quality and investigate how chemical pollution affects aquatic ecosystems and the spread of AMR. I am also focused on developing rapid detection methods for environmental pathogens. This includes refining techniques for isolating DNA from the air to detect pathogens and working on methods to detect norovirus in aquatic samples.

Qualifications

• PhD - Microbial Ecology Cranfield University, (2014)

• MSc - Sustainable Aquaculture Systems Plymouth University, (2009)

• BSc(hons) - Marine Biology Plymouth University, (2007)

Appointments

University of Essex

• Senior Lecturer, School of Life Sciences, University of Essex (1/7/2023 - present)

• Lecturer, University of Essex (1/6/2020 - present)

• Senior postdoctoral research officer, University of Essex (1/7/2015 - 31/5/2020)

• Public Outreach officer: NERC Environmental Microbiology and Human health Program, University of Essex (1/1/2017 - 1/9/2018)

Other academic

• Postdoctoral Research assistant, University of Aberdeen (1/3/2014 - 30/6/2015)