Doctoral thesis · 2006
Structure/function studies of a core complex in the Bacillus divisome
A dissertation submitted for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy
Abstract
My abstract is sick.
Acknowledgments
I must extend my thanks and appreciation foremost to my supervisor, Dr. Glenn King, who, not only offered me the opportunity to study in his group, but also gave me the prospect of doing so overseas. Glenn’s supervision throughout the years has been motivating and inspiring, but most importantly, has shaped a positive view of science within me that will be enduring. He has been a constant source of help and guidance in all matters relating to this project and has taken me from novice to scientist – what more could I ask for?
I would also like to thank my associate supervisors, Drs. Gregory Mullen, Zheng-Yu Peng, Jeff Hoch and Peter Setlow. Peter’s extensive knowledge in all things Bacillus and biochemical along with the resources of his laboratory have helped paved the way to a successful and interesting project. Jeff’s experience and knowledge in all things biophysical has been a joy to be around and has inspired, in part, a personal interest in continuing in the NMR field. Greg and Peng were early members of my committee who helped formulated my early impressions of the health center as a fun and exciting place to work. I am particularly thankful to Peng who not only instructed me in several biophysical techniques but also help guide me in selecting postdoctoral labs. It saddens me greatly that neither Greg nor Peng survived to see the completion of this project.
I have been fortunate to be surrounded by many great people who have helped with this project on a day-to-day basis. Firstly Dr. Susan Rowland has been a constant source of enlightenment in experimental design and technique and a great individual to discuss all matters scientific and otherwise. Dr. Mark Maciejewski has been invaluable in the collection, processing and interpretation of NMR data; it has also been enjoyable sharing a passion for computer technology with him. Dr. Vitaliy Gorbatyuk has also been instrumental in NMR data interpretation, especially in the early days when I was particularly clueless. I have been in Glenn’s lab for many years (and on two continents) and over that time shared the experience with many students; namely, Anu, Billy, Brie, Frank, Jamie, Katja, Kim, Naresh, Tim and Xiuhong. All have filled the lab with laughter, unity and friendship.
I am also thankful to our collaborators, Dr. Liz Harry and Dr. Jon Beckwith. Liz has an amazing enthusiasm for her work and others that is inspirational and incredibly valuable. Jon, along with his student Nathan Goehring, has contributed intellectually to this project from the field of E. coli.
I am grateful to the administrative staff – Elaine Borselle, Pat Schultz, Bridget Clancy-Tenan and Cliff Sargis – for assistance with clerical and secretarial affairs. I am also grateful to Bob Barnes with whom I shared many laughs and reminded me the value of those who can still work with their hands.
I am extremely thankful to my supportive and caring friends, old and new. I thank Joe, Samantha and Naresh, who have been there from the start, for their tolerance and support and for never being too shy to suggest exchanging a night in the lab for a night on the town in Sydney, New York or Queanbeyan. I also thank David and Mehdi, who I found here in Connecticut, for reminding me where the dance-floor is and the joys of a pint – I had honestly forgotten.
Lastly, I must extent my gratitude to my Mum and Dad who always supported my endeavors in life with love and encouragement, and trusted it would be the right thing. Also, my brother, David and sister, Gayle, who, being older, showed me the way to negotiate the public school system of Western Sydney and helped me get to where I am today. Our times in Hervey Bay, though far away, feel like yesterday.
Dedicated to Mum (1941-2003)
This is what all the red dots were about…