Bree Aldridge Honored with Milton O. and Natalie V. Zucker Prize

Bree Aldridge, professor of molecular and microbiology, has been awarded the 2024 Milton O. and Natalie V. Zucker Prize for her pioneering work in understanding antibiotic combinations and mechanisms of action against Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacterium responsible for TB. The Zucker Prize is awarded annually to a woman scientist on the Tufts University School of Medicine faculty for exceptional career achievements in research.

John Leong, the Edith Rieva and Hyman S. Trilling Professor and chair of molecular and microbiology, nominated Aldridge for the prize, stating, "Aldridge has established herself as an international leader in the field of Mycobacterium tuberculosis biology, utilizing computational and wet bench biological approaches to understanding antibiotic combinations and mechanisms of action."

Aldridge’s research focuses on the biology of M. tuberculosis, particularly its ability to survive host and antibiotic stresses. This work is crucial, given the challenges in treating tuberculosis with its lengthy antibiotic regimen and high treatment failure rates. Her innovative approaches have led to breakthroughs in understanding cellular heterogeneity and drug tolerance mechanisms within M. tuberculosis populations.

As a Zucker Prize recipient, Aldridge not only receives recognition for her exceptional contributions but also serves as an inspiration to future generations of woman scientists pursuing breakthroughs in biomedical research. Her continued leadership and dedication exemplify the values of excellence and innovation at TUSM, and show young women everywhere that biomedical research is a career path worth pursuing.