My laboratory uses genetic and biochemical approaches to examine the mechanism by which the cytoplasmic membrane ion electrochemical potential is harnessed to energize the biogenesis and maintenance of the essentially non-energized outer membrane of Gram negative bacteria. Because the outer membrane is the principle interface between the organism and the environment, these studies impact a broad set of biological issues; ranging from ecology to pathogenesis (although the molecular biology and energetics are alone more than sufficient to keep us all very busy).