Catherine Armbruster

Catherine Armbruster is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at Carnegie Mellon University. Her research focuses on biofilms, polymicrobial interactions, microbial ecology and evolution, genomics, microbiome, bacterial pathogenesis, cystic fibrosis, built environment microbiology, and bioinformatics. She investigates how bacteria in biofilms persist in the built environment and transition into the host to establish chronic infections. Her work includes studying opportunistic pathogens, such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, in potable water and their impact on downstream host-pathogen interactions in cystic fibrosis respiratory infections and antimicrobial resistance. She also uses experimental evolution to identify traits important for persistence of P. aeruginosa in CF airways. Her goal is to identify public health, engineering, or therapeutic strategies to prevent and treat opportunistic infections from the built environment.

Catherine R. Armbruster's research focuses on the molecular mechanisms underlying biofilm formation and microbial interactions in clinically relevant pathogens. Her work explores the role of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in cystic fibrosis, particularly its ability to form biofilms and engage in polymicrobial interactions. She investigates how these bacteria exploit host factors, such as phosphatidylethanolamines and potassium flux, to enhance biofilm development and persistence. Her studies also examine interspecies interactions, including those involving Staphylococcus aureus, and their implications for infection dynamics. Armbruster's research highlights the importance of understanding microbial adaptation and evolution in chronic infections, with applications in therapeutic strategies.