Welcome to the webpage of Dr. Todd Sandrin! In addition to teaching both basic and advanced courses in biology and microbiology, I conduct research on the physiology of microorganisms. I am particularly interested in the impact of toxic metals on the physiology and ecology of bacteria. Currently, my lab group is investigating fundamental chemical and molecular aspects of toxicity of metals. In particular, we are beginning to use tools in proteomics and functional genomics to tackle some of our research questions. In addition, we have recently examined the effect of lead in Rush Lake on the diversity of sediment bacteria in the lake using both culture- and non-culture based methods.

In other projects, we are utilizing genetic fingerprinting (rep-PCR) to characterize environmental isolates of E. coli found contaminating recreational waters and beaches in Door County, Wisconsin and on the Wisconsin shores of Lake Superior. Given the time-intensive nature of PCR-based fingerprinting methods, we have begun developing rapid, mass spectrometry-based methods to characterize microorganisms including E. coli and Enterococcus. We are beginning to apply these methods to other, medically-relevant organisms including methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). For this and other medically-relevant projects, we collaborate closely with researchers at the Marshfield Clinic.

Several graduate students have completed their Master's degrees and in the laboratory and several undergraduates are currently working in the laboratory (see Students page ). I am always interested in involving more. Contact me for more information if you are interested.

Prior to coming to Oshkosh , I obtained my doctoral degree and post-doctoral training at the University of Arizona in hot and sunny Tucson, Arizona in the Department of Soil, Water and Environmental Science . I earned my Master's Degree in Plant Pathology from the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville .

If you have questions, feel free to drop me an e-mail or stop by my office or lab.