Young Scientist Receives Recognition for Studies on Antibiotic Synergy

Thermo Fisher Scientific has awarded the Thermo Scientific Prize for the Best Project in Microbiology (2011) at the University of Brighton School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences to final year student, Christopher Lee. The award acknowledges Christopher's investigations into the in vitro interactions between fluoroquinolone and aminoglycoside antibiotics, with a particular interest in any synergistic effect.

The synergistic relationship between fluoroquinolone and aminoglycoside antibiotics has been studied previously with varying conclusions. Christopher investigated the effect of ciprofloxacin in combination with aminoglycosides (mainly gentamicin) against numerous strains of Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus. His findings were consistent with the majority of published studies, providing no firm evidence for using such combinations but also showing no indication of antagonism.

Christopher's project was marked highly for the clarity of the report and for the volume and thoroughness of the experimental work undertaken.

'This final year project was undertaken to clarify conflicting reports regarding the potential for synergy between quinolones and aminoglycoside antibiotics - at least with respect to the most important members of each group: ciprofloxacin and gentamicin. The quality of experimental design and the care with which the work was undertaken was exceptional. We are delighted to reward Christopher for his research,' comments Fiona Macrae, global marketing communications manager, Thermo Fisher.

Christopher was presented with a framed certificate and a cheque for £150 prior to the graduation ceremonies at the University of Brighton.

'I was really pleased to have won the award, as I'd worked extremely hard on the project,' he said. 'I have no doubt that other students produced some excellent work, so it was great to be acknowledged. The project allowed me to look more closely into drug interactions and antibiotic usage, which is a subject that interests me.'