Grace Patterson

I studied Microbiology at the Auburn University from 2010-2014, where I conducted research on sequence comparison of 4 commercial avian Infectious Bronchitis Virus vaccines. I then began a PhD in Microbiology and Immunology at the University of Texas Medical Branch, where I characterized a murine model of childhood moderate acute malnutrition. I identified interactions between gut microbiota, intestinal translocation, systemic inflammation, and immune response that were supported by complimentary research in a cohort of children with uncomplicated MAM. During this time I also completed a MPH in Epidemiology, where I conducted research with the Galveston County Food Bank on regional client preferences, needs, and household demographics. We also mapped the needs and assets of specific distributing agencies to promote efficient resource sharing. In 2019, I became a postdoctoral research associate at the Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Food Systems, where I have contributed to research on the obesogenic food retail environment in the Merseyside. Current research is focused on comparing the macro and micro food retail environment in different regions of Liverpool and combining that data with information on distribution of local sociodemographic traits.