Helen Zhang, MD, MSCE
ARLG Fellow
Duke University

 About my role

As an advanced infectious diseases fellow interested in antibacterial resistance research, the ARLG provides me with full salary support to conduct mentored research in antibacterial resistance, as well as support for related training activities. ARLG’s support has given me protected time to focus on building my research skillset and portfolio.

About my research

My research focuses on the epidemiology of infections caused by multidrug-resistant gram-negative bacilli. Specifically, I am investigating risk factors for treatment failure and recurrence among patients with community-onset urinary tract infections caused by extended-spectrum cephalosporin-resistant Enterobacterales.

Although initially confined to healthcare environments, extended-spectrum cephalosporin-resistant and extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) producing Enterobacterales have increasingly disseminated throughout community settings in the U.S. and worldwide. By identifying risk factors for poor outcomes from these infections, we can gain a better understanding of what modifiable risk factors we can target to improve patient outcomes, as well as who might benefit the most from nascent decolonization strategies to prevent recurrence.

Why is this research important?

Infections caused by extended-spectrum cephalosporin-resistant Enterobacterales are among the top antibacterial resistance threats in the world. Epidemiologic research on these infections helps to lay the groundwork for future studies aimed at improving their treatment and prevention.

Impact of the ARLG mentoring and funding on my career

In addition to funding support, as an ARLG fellow, I receive scientific and career mentorship from leaders in the field. ARLG leverages the collective expertise of some of the world’s leading researchers in antibacterial resistance to accelerate scientific progress in improving the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of antibiotic-resistant infections. Mentorship from these leaders has been integral to my career development.

ARLG’s infrastructure and collaborations have facilitated some of the most impactful antibacterial resistance clinical studies of the past decade. Any trainee who is interested in antibacterial resistance clinical research should consider the ARLG fellowship. Fellows receive invaluable guidance from experienced mentors, funding support to conduct research and pursue training, and membership in the ARLG network. The fellowship provides an ideal launching point for a career in antibacterial resistance research.