Craig M. Stephens

Dr. Craig M. Stephens is renowned for his innovative approaches in the field of bacterial evolution and antibiotic resistance. As the Sanfilippo Family Professor in Biology and Public Health at Santa Clara University, he brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his research and teaching. Dr. Stephens earned his Bachelor of Science in Biology from Roanoke College and went on to complete his PhD in Molecular Biology at the University of Virginia. His research primarily focuses on the genomic analysis of antibiotic resistance acquisition and evolution, with a particular emphasis on E. coli and other commensal and pathogenic bacteria. Dr. Stephens has made significant contributions to the scientific community through his extensive publications in peer-reviewed journals, supported by grants from prestigious institutions such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the National Science Foundation (NSF). One of Dr. Stephens' notable achievements is the development of a method for rapid bacterial identification using whole-genome sequencing. This innovative technique has the potential to revolutionize the way bacterial infections are diagnosed and treated, offering quicker and more accurate results. In addition to his research endeavors, Dr. Stephens is deeply committed to education. He teaches a variety of courses at Santa Clara University, including biology, public health, and infectious diseases, where he inspires and mentors the next generation of scientists and public health professionals. Dr. Stephens' dedication to both research and teaching has earned him a respected reputation in the academic community. His work not only advances our understanding of bacterial evolution and antibiotic resistance but also contributes to the development of new strategies for combating infectious diseases.