introduction/brief CV
Dr. Esraa is an Assistant Professor in Microbiology with extensive expertise in molecular
bacteriology, infectious diseases, and antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Her research spans the
development of natural and synthetic antimicrobial compounds, the optimization of bone tissue
scaffolds for medical applications, and the molecular characterization of antimicrobial
resistance. Dr. Esraa is passionate about integrating innovative technologies, including phage
screening, to combat AMR in both healthcare and community settings.
With a commitment to academic excellence, she is skilled in teaching and supervising graduate
students, fostering their research development, and mentoring them through diverse
microbiology projects. Dr. Esraa’s collaborative nature is reflected in her ongoing partnerships,
including those with the Industrial Engineering and Pharmacology Departments at King Saud
University. Her aim is to provide research-driven solutions that advance microbiology and
inspire future scholars in the field.
areas of expertise
1. Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) in Healthcare and Community Settings
This research explores the prevalence and impact of antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections in both healthcare and community settings. It includes retrospective analysis of hospital data to evaluate the effects of AMR on clinical outcomes, such as mortality and length of stay, and investigates resistance profiles. Additionally, the study assesses the community-level spread of multidrug resistance, focusing on food sources like lamb meat in Riyadh, to inform infection control strategies and antimicrobial stewardship programs.
2. Natural and Synthetic Antimicrobial Compounds for Drug Development and Phage Screening Technology
In response to the rise of antimicrobial resistance, this project identifies both natural and synthetic compounds with potent antimicrobial properties. The study explores their mechanisms of action and efficacy against multidrug-resistant bacterial strains, with a focus on developing antimicrobial adjuvants to overcome resistance and enhance the activity of antibiotics. Furthermore, phage screening technology is being integrated into the research to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in the environment, identifying bacteriophages that can target resistant pathogens and offer innovative solutions for infection control. This approach aims to contribute new strategies for addressing the growing challenge of AMR.
3. Utilization of Natural Products in Bone Tissue Engineering
This research investigates the development of bone tissue scaffolds incorporating natural local products with antibacterial properties, aiming to prevent bacterial colonization and biofilm formation. It focuses on optimizing scaffold geometry and material composition to enhance both antibacterial effects and biocompatibility for bone healing. The study also seeks to replace conventional antimicrobial agents, like silver nanoparticles, with alternatives that reduce cytotoxicity and resistance concerns while promoting tissue growth and healing through experimental assays. This project is in collaboration with the Industrial Engineering Department at King Saud University.
