Gut-Brain Communication: The Possibility of Mind-controlling Bacteria

Dr. Ishiguro is a Professor Emeritus, a Member of the Department of Biochemistry & Microbiology since 1977 and served 8 years as Department Chair.

He was legally required to retire in 2006, having reached the age of 65 ( described by Dr. Ishiguro as a time "when apparently you are no longer competent enough to carry out your job description"). He however states that in fact, this experience stimulated his interest in the science behind the aging process.

In reality, he has never retired and has no intention to do so in the immediate future.  He continues to teach at the University of Victoria.  He has also taught at Camosun College for 5 years and at Royal Roads University on two occasions during his “retirement” period.

His research interests in molecular microbiology with a focus on the basis for antibiotic tolerance in bacteria.  For publication list, see http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/?term=ishiguro+ee

Dr. Ishiguro states he is currently spending an inordinate amount of  time collaborating with two others to write a book on his new passion, our gut bacteria and their role in human health and illness.

He was awarded Faculty of Science Teaching Excellence Award in 2005 and the UVic Alumni Association Harry Hickman Award for Teaching Excellence in 2006.