Melissa Brown is a Professor of Microbiology at Flinders University, Australia. The research in her lab is focused on the molecular mechanisms of antimicrobial resistance in a variety of bacterial pathogens. A particular focus is on bacterial survival strategies using membrane-bound efflux pumps, particularly those that recognise a wide range of structurally-dissimilar antimicrobial compounds. To understand their mechanisms of action, the basis for their amazingly broad-substrate specificity, and their regulation of expression, her group has utilised a multi-faceted molecular, biochemical and biophysical approach. In addition, her group is involved in the development and analysis of new antibacterial coatings. Through the ARC Training Centre for Biofilms Research and Innovation she is involved with multiple projects addressing the role biofilms play in drinking water supplies, pipe materials, and how they can improve the water treatment process. Melissa is a Fellow of the Australian and American Academies of Microbiology.