Stephen Tuffs

Dr. Stephen Tuffs is an Assistant Professor in the School of Molecular Life Sciences. Academic credentials include an MSci (Honours) from the University of Glasgow and a PhD from the University of Edinburgh.

Studying Bacterial Driven Inflammation

Research Interests

 Dr. Tuffs studies how Staphylococcus aureus manipulates inflammatory responses to promote infection and persist within the host. A major focus is superantigens, powerful bacterial toxins that target T cells and trigger widespread immune activation. The laboratory investigates how this toxin-driven inflammation disrupts normal host defences, supports bacterial survival, and contributes to the severity of disease. Research approaches include bacteriology, immunology, biochemistry, infection models, and studies informed by clinical observations and samples. By identifying the mechanisms that allow S. aureus to exploit the immune system, this research aims to uncover new strategies for limiting or treating difficult bacterial infections.