Dr. John Foster, professor of microbiology and immunology at the University of South Alabama College of Medicine, recently co-authored a book titled “Microbiology: An Evolving Science.” The textbook, published by W.W. Norton & Company, represents a seven-year endeavor for Foster.

The textbook provides an understanding of the rapidly advancing field of microbiology in two ways. First, the discipline’s foundational topics are enriched by a careful integration of current research, genomics, and molecular genetics. Second, a stunning and consistently executed art program aids students in visualizing key microbiological processes and structures. The new text has already been adopted at several prominent universities including UCLA, UC Davis, LSU, and the University of Illinois.

Foster has co-authored three editions of the textbook “Microbial Physiology,” and has published more than 100 journal articles describing the physiology and genetics of microbial stress responses. In addition to these achievements, he has served as chair of the Microbial Physiology and Metabolism Division of the American Society for Microbiology and is a member of the editorial advisory board of the journal Molecular Microbiology.

Foster’s current research examines the diarrhea-causing bacteria Shigella and E. coli. His lab discovered the critical adaptive responses these bacteria use to survive acidic environments. This adaptation provides protection for ingested pathogens as they pass through the stomach. Foster’s research seeks to better understand these responses at the biochemical, genetic and molecular levels.