Dr. Barbara Sixt

Biography

Barbara Sixt conducts research on cell-autonomous immunity and bacterial evasion strategies. As a research fellow at Umeå University, her focus is on understanding the intricate relationship between human cells and bacterial pathogens, particularly Chlamydia trachomatis. This bacterium is a major cause of sexually transmitted diseases and infertility; it grows within human cells, making it an ideal subject for studying immune challenges and bacterial resistance. Sixt employs cutting-edge molecular genetics, microscopic imaging, and high-throughput screenings to probe the cellular defense mechanisms that bacteria exploit to survive. By uncovering the underlying molecular determinants of host defenses and bacterial countermeasures, her research aims to innovate new antimicrobial strategies. Sixt also leads a dedicated research group that investigates how pathogenic bacteria interact with host cell defense systems, contributing significantly to the fields of microbiology and immunology.

Research Interests

Experience