Many bacteria move using long helical structures called flagella, tiny molecular nanomachines that rotate like propellers and enable cells to swim toward nutrients. Building and controlling such a complex structure requires dozens of specialized proteins working together in coordination. One of our research projects focuses on uncovering the mechanisms that guide the construction of these remarkable organelles. In this stream, we will investigate the role of a very curious protein called Fluke. Although Fluke is not part of the flagellar regulatory system itself, the flagellum utilizes this protein as a “gatekeeper” that helps the cell control when and how flagellar components are secreted during assembly. Students in this stream will learn microbial genetics and molecular biology techniques while contributing to the development of a new screening approach to understand the role of Fluke in flagellar biogenesis. This research offers students the opportunity to explore real questions in molecular microbiology and to contribute to our broader understanding of how living cells build complex molecular machines.