Overview
The Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Program at Vanderbilt is a collaborative initiative bringing together researchers and clinicians across Vanderbilt University Medical Center and Vanderbilt University to address one of the most pressing global health challenges.
Antimicrobial resistance is projected to cause 10 million deaths annually by 2050, surpassing cancer. In response, Vanderbilt has established a cross-disciplinary program that integrates discovery science, clinical research, and population health to advance solutions in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of drug-resistant infections.
Mission
To address the global AMR threat by leveraging expertise across discovery, clinical, and population health domains to improve diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes of resistant infections.
Leadership
Interim Co-Chairs
Steering Committee
Members-at-Large
Research
The AMR Program is organized around four core areas that reflect the full spectrum of antimicrobial resistance research at Vanderbilt, from fundamental discovery to real-world implementation.
Discovery Science
Research in this area focuses on understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms that drive antimicrobial resistance, persistence, and host–pathogen interactions. Investigators work to identify new therapeutic targets and uncover vulnerabilities in resistant organisms that can inform next-generation treatment strategies.
Diagnostics
This area emphasizes the development and implementation of rapid, accurate diagnostic tools to detect resistant pathogens and guide clinical decision-making. Efforts include advancing molecular diagnostics, improving susceptibility testing, and integrating diagnostic innovation into clinical workflows.
Therapeutics
Therapeutics research spans antimicrobial drug discovery, optimization, and clinical evaluation. This includes the development of novel compounds, repurposing of existing agents, and designing treatment strategies that improve efficacy while minimizing the emergence of resistance.
Population Health
Population health research focuses on the epidemiology of antimicrobial resistance and the implementation of strategies to reduce its impact at scale. This includes antimicrobial stewardship, infection prevention, health systems research, and global health initiatives aimed at improving outcomes across diverse populations.