“Antimicrobial resistance is a threat too urgent, too borderless, and too consequential to ignore — and every genome brings us closer to an answer.”

Kainat Gul is a PhD candidate at Adelaide University with a background in microbiology and hands-on experience in molecular laboratory techniques, including whole genome sequencing (WGS) and qPCR. Her research has focused on understanding microbial communities and the genetic basis of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), including AMR surveillance and exploring alternative approaches to combat resistant pathogens.

As a SAAFE Scholar, Kainat is investigating the environmental dissemination of antimicrobial resistance, particularly across wastewater, agriculture and natural ecosystems, using metagenomic and genomic surveillance approaches. Her project focusses on addressing AMR in lower and middle income countries (LMICs), specifically in the Pacific Islands and Australia as part of an international collaboration between CSIRO and the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research to facilitate regional engagement with the Pacific Horticultural and Agricultural Market Access Plus Program (PHAMA), the Fijian Ministry of Health and Medical Services and the Scientific Research Organisation of Samoa (SROS).

Kainat’s research aims to identify key hotspots and drivers of AMR transmission, particularly in environmental reservoirs. Ultimately, she hopes her work will contribute to improved surveillance systems, evidence-based policy decisions and strategies that reduce the spread of resistance at local and global levels.

Her interest in AMR began during her postgraduate studies in microbiology, when she became increasingly aware of the growing global threat of antibiotic resistance. Having seen the impact of an extensively drug-resistant Salmonella outbreak in Pakistan, the issue became particularly real and personal for her. Her interest deepened as she recognised that AMR extends beyond a clinical problem to become an environmental and ecological challenge.

Kainat was attracted to SAAFE CRC because of its focus on applied, industry-linked research and its One Health approach. She sees AMR as a clear example of the interconnectedness of human, animal and environmental health, and values the opportunity to work on real-world AMR challenges in agricultural and environmental contexts.

A typical day can look quite different depending on where she is in the research process. Some days are spent in the molecular laboratory carrying out DNA extraction, PCR and sample preparation for sequencing. On other days, Kainat analyses

sequencing data, reviews scientific literature or writes up results. She also works closely with her supervisor and colleagues to discuss progress, troubleshoot challenges and plan the next steps of her research.

For Kainat, one of the most important things for people to understand about AMR is that it is already happening. Resistant bacteria can spread through water, soil, food and animals, making AMR a challenge that extends across borders and sectors. She believes greater understanding is an important part of tackling the problem together.

Outside research, Kainat enjoys exploring new places, hiking, discovering new cities and hidden gems close to home, and spending time with family and friends. She also enjoys movies and shows and staying active outdoors.

Her personal hero is her father, whose courage, discipline and dedication have inspired her to face challenges and work hard to succeed in her own field.