Dr. Peterson’s research focuses on using network models, genome-wide assays (e.g, gene expression, Tn-seq, ChIP-Seq) and phenotype data to understand the underlying complexity of tuberculosis and its infectious agent, Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Dr. Peterson has constructed gene regulatory network models for M. tuberculosis, revealing how the pathogen responds to therapeutic, immunologic and nutritional challenges during infection. Dr. Peterson is focused on using network models to understand drug resistance and the prioritization of targets for antitubercular treatment. She is also working on developing network models for other CMNR bacteria (corynebacterium, mycobacterium, nocardia, rhodococcus) to elucidate regulatory mechanisms that allow these bacteria to alter their cell envelope composition in different environmental conditions.