Photo of Tyler J. Avis

Tyler J. Avis

Professor, Undergraduate Advisor

Degrees:Ph.D. Université Laval, Québec, 2001
Phone:613-520-2600 x 3121
Email:tyler.avis@carleton.ca
Website:The Avis Lab

The Avis Lab studies both fundamental and applied aspects of food and plant microbiology. More specifically, we are interested in microbial food spoilage and plant pathology. Our main focus is the use of alternatives to synthetic chemicals to control the growth of microorganisms on crops and during food storage. The resulting effects of this research is meant to increase food yield and reduce food loss, which can have a positive impact on food security and environmental sustainability.

We are investigating the use of beneficial microorganisms (biological control agents), as well as microbial and plant extracts and purified natural antimicrobial compounds as potential alternatives to control harmful microorganisms. These novel control measures are meant to mitigate problems associated with some synthetic control measures such as risks to health and the environment as well as to delay or eliminate the onset of resistance development in the targeted microorganisms.

Our laboratory uses a multidisciplinary approach including basic microbiology, biochemistry, bio-analytical and bio-physical chemistry, membrane and lipid chemistry, as well as molecular biology, genetics, and genomics.

Academic and Professional Background

Professor, Carleton University, Ottawa, 2020

Associate Professor, Carleton University, Ottawa, 2012

Assistant Professor, Carleton University, Ottawa, 2008

Research Associate, Université Laval, Québec, 2006-2008

Director of Operations & Head Scientist (Microbiology), AZYMax, Québec, 2002-2005

Industrial Postdoctoral Fellow, PureCell Technologies, Trois-Rivières, 2001-2002

Ph.D. Université Laval, Québec, 2001