Travis’ primary research goal is to uncover the mechanistic basis of the phenotypic switch that allows sub-populations of pathogenic bacteria to evade chemotherapy and persist in the host. Working with pathogenic strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, his recent work focuses on the metabolic response to antitubercular drugs and diverse drug candidates to curtail drug tolerance and avoid antibiotic resistance. Ultimately, he hopes to contribute toward a fundamental understanding of cellular senescence and its associated pathology.
Outside of the lab, Travis is an avid hiker and runner who has run the NYC Marathon twice (poorly) and participates in road races all year long. He is attempting to summit all of the high peaks in the Adirondack State Park in upstate New York and is the first scientist in his family with no desire to summit Mt. Everest.