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Phone:: (023) 8059 4726
Email:: C.W.Keevil@soton.ac.uk

Professor Bill Keevil BSc PhD CBiol FRSB FRSM FAAM

Chair in Environmental Healthcare, Principal Investigator (Microbiology & environmental health), Director of the Environmental Healthcare Unit, Chair of the University Genetic Manipulation and Safety Committee, Member of the University Safety & Occupational Health Committee

Professor Bill Keevil is Chair in Environmental Healthcare within Biological Sciences at the University of Southampton.

Career History

2003-present: Head of the Microbiology Group. University of Southampton, UK.
2000-present: Director of the Environmental Healthcare Unit. University of Southampton, UK.
2003-2005: Scientific Advisor to the House of Commons Select Committee on Science & Technology, London, UK.
2000-2004: Visiting Professor of Microbiology. University of Exeter, UK.
1997-2000: Scientific Leader. Microbial Research Authority, CAMR Porton Down, UK.
1994-1997: Consultant Clinical Microbiologist and Head of the Microbial Technology Department. Microbial Research Authority, CAMR Porton Down, UK.
1990-1994: Clinical Scientist Grade C (Merit) and Head of Physiology & Biofilms Section. Public Health Laboratory Service, CAMR Porton Down, UK.
1985: Winner of the Colgate Prize
1984-1990: Principal Grade Microbiologist, Public Health Laboratory Service, CAMR Porton Down, UK
1983: Visiting Research Fellow, University of Manitoba, Canada.
1979-1984: Senior Grade Microbiologist, Public Health Laboratory Service, CAMR Porton Down, UK.
1978-1979: Head of Small Scale Polysaccharide Research, Tate & Lyle Ltd, University of Reading.
1976-1978: Postdoctoral Fellow, University of Southampton, UK.

Academic Qualifications

2011: FRSM, Fellow of the Royal Society of Medicine
1998: FAAM, Fellow of the American Academy of Microbiology
1998: FIBiol, Fellow of the Institute of Biology (now Royal Society of Biology)
1998: CBiol, Chartered Biologist
1976: PhD. Biochemistry, University of Birmingham, UK.
1973: BSc. Biochemistry, University of Birmingham, UK.

Research

Publications

Teaching

Contributions

Contact

Research interests

Physiology and adaptive mechanisms for survival of pathogens, in vivo and in vitro e.g. Legionella, Helicobacter, E. coli O157, MRSA, C. difficile.
Biofilms in the environment, the built environment and clinical practice.
Surface contamination, including prions; fouling and corrosion.
Survival of sublethally damaged pathogens in water and human and animal wastes recycled to agricultural land, e.g. E coli O157 Salmonella, Campylobacter, Listeria, Cryptosporidium

PhD supervision

Callum Highmore: BBSRC Industrial CASE student / Decontamination of biofilm and VBNC zoonotic pathogens on the salad leaf phylloplane for enhanced food security and safety
Nany Malissa Rahimi: Commonwealth Scholar / Development, persistence and control of biofilms on urinary catheters utilising advanced imaging and molecular techniques.
Chris Winnard: IfLS student / Biofilm formation in neonatal naso-gastric tubes
Tom Maybe: DSTL student / Biosynthesis of nanomaterials with spectrally selective solar absorptance

Research group

Microbiology

Affiliate research groups

Institute for Life Sciences (IfLS), Network for Anti-Microbial Resistance and Infection Prevention (NAMRIP)

Research project(s)

Biofouling control for in-situ lab-on-a-chip environmental sensors

Using microscopy and molecular community analysis techniques, the effects of antifouling methods will be assessed.

Development of endoscope decontamination procedures

This project will assess the cleanliness of existing endoscopes and the efficacy of current decontamination procedures, using a new highly sensitive microscopy imaging method to identify and quantify residual contamination from a range of flexible endoscopes, and new cell assays to assess potential prion infectivity.

Antimicrobial copper: Biocidal efficacy and killing mechanism of copper and copper alloy dry surfaces against bacterial and viral pathogens

Touch surfaces are an important conduit for transmission of bacteria, viruses and fungi, leading to mass outbreaks of disease in the community and healthcare acquired infections by multiple antibiotic resistant microorganisms causing great morbidity and mortality.

BioliSME II: Demonstration, validation and preliminary promotion of a commercial prototype speedy system for sampling and detecting Listeria monocytogenes

The objective of the work developed by the partner University of Southampton is to firstly optimize the formation of L. monocytogenes biofilms and then conduct experiments to calculate the detachment forces required to remove L. monocytogenes biofilms.

Cold Atmospheric Plasma (CAP) for the decontamination of reusable surgical instruments

To evaluate the potential of Cold Atmospheric Plasma as a tool for the decontamination of reusable surgical instruments and endoscopes, thus significantly reducing the risk of iatrogenic infections with prions and potentially other resilient agents.

Development of anti-fouling strategies for long-term deployed in situ sensors in marine environments

Analysis of biofilms in the marine environment and of the effectiveness of antifouling strategies

Environmental Healthcare Unit Consultancy

Our Consultancy Service has dealt with a wide range of projects in collaboration with both small and large multinational companies. We offer a range of testing services using up-to-date microbiological methods and the latest techniques in specialised microscopy.

Microbial interactions in multi-species drinking water biofilm community

Using the model organism Pseudomonas aeruginosa to investigate mechanisms by which drinking water biofilms harbour important pathogenic microorganism and how these interactions within multi-species biofilms can enhance genetic adaptation and evolution of microbial pathogens.

Rapid assessment of surface contamination and decontamination efficacy

Development of rapid, sensitive, advanced EDIC/EF light microscopy based protocols to assess the efficacy of current bio-decontamination systems.

Role of hypoxia and DNA mismatch repair in tumorigenesis

Using a multicellular tumour spheroid model to investigate the role of hypoxia and DNA mismatch repair on the fundamental processes of importance in tumour development

The role of nitric oxide in the control of biofilm and zoonotic pathogen colonisation of the salad phylloplane

Investigating the use of the signalling molecule nitric oxide for microbial control at the phylloplane

SecurEau – Security and decontamination of drinking water distribution systems following a deliberate contamination event.

This work aims to design novel methodologies for the detection of low levels of contaminants, model the distribution of contaminants throughout a network and identify the point of origin, develop the use of sensors for surveillance and provide decontamination protocols for polluted networks and installations, including the neutralisation of contaminated water and residues.

Prevention and minimisation of biofilms on urinary catheters and equipment

Biofilm development on urinary catheters is a major healthcare issue, leading to infection and blockage. Here we are using advanced microscopy and viability techniques to improve our understanding of biofilm development and persistence on urinary catheters.

Occurrence and horizontal gene transfer of carbapenemase and ESBL genes in soil microbiomes

Understanding the links between lettuce leaf phenotypes and the abundance and diversity of microbes with a view to breeding for improved shelf life and safety

Bubble Management in an Ultrasonic System to Clean using a Water Stream

The StarStream device cleans using only room temperature water, ultrasound and air. This CASE award studentship, funded by EPSRC and Ultrawave Ltd., examines method of improving the StarStream by looking at the engineering associated with the water supply components of the device. This entails the design and construction of new bubble diagnostics technology.

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Articles

Dunne, S., Ahonen, M., Modic, M., Crijns, F., Keinänen-Toivola, M., Meinke, R., ... Dunne, C. (2018). Antimicrobial coatings for reduction of hospital acquired infection and associated specialised cleaning: opinion of the COST Action Network AMiCI (CA15114). Journal of Hospital Infection.
Watson, F., Keevil, C., Wilks, S., & Chewins, J. (2018). Modelling vaporised hydrogen peroxide efficacy against mono-species biofilms. Scientific Reports, 8, 1-7. [12257]. DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-30706-0
Rosenberg, M., Vija, H., Kahru, A., Keevil, C., & Ivask, A. (2018). Rapid in situ assessment of Cu-ion mediated effects and antibacterial efficacy of copper surfaces. Scientific Reports, 8, 1-12. [8172]. DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-26391-8
Dunne, S. S., Ahonen, M., Modic, M., Crijns, F. R. L., Keinänen-Toivola, M. M., Meinke, R., ... Dunne, C. P. (2018). Specialized cleaning associated with antimicrobial coatings for reduction of hospital-acquired infection: opinion of the COST Action Network AMiCI (CA15114). Journal of Hospital Infection. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhin.2018.03.006
Highmore, C., Warner, J. C., Rothwell, S. D., Wilks, S., & Keevil, C. (2018). Viable but nonculturable Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella enterica Thompson induced by chlorine stress remain infectious. mBio.
Highmore, C. J., Warner, J. C., Rothwell, S. D., Wilks, S. A., & Keevil, C. W. (2018). Viable-but-nonculturable Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella enterica serovar thompson induced by chlorine stress remain infectious. mBio, 9(2), [e00540-18]. DOI: 10.1128/mBio.00540-18
Highmore, C. J., Rothwell, S. D., & Keevil, C. W. (2017). Improved sample preparation for direct quantitative detection of Escherichia coli O157 in soil using qPCR without pre-enrichment. Microbial Biotechnology. DOI: 10.1111/1751-7915.12737
Gilmartin, N., Gião, M. S., Keevil, C. W., & O'Kennedy, R. (2016). Differential internalin A levels in biofilms of Listeria monocytogenes grown on different surfaces and nutrient conditions. International Journal of Food Microbiology, 219, 50-55. DOI: 10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2015.12.004
Warnes, S., & Keevil, C. (2016). Lack of involvement of Fenton chemistry in death of methicillin-resistant and methicillin-sensitive strains of Staphylococcus aureus and destruction of their genomes on wet or dry copper alloy surfaces. Applied and Environmental Microbiology, 82(7), 2132-2136. DOI: 10.1128/AEM.03861-15
Herve, R., & Keevil, C. (2016). Persistent residual contamination in endoscope channels; a fluorescence epi-microscopy study. Endoscopy, 1-8. DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-105744
Wilks, S., Katsamenis, O., Carugo, D., Zhang, X., Fader, M., & Keevil, C. W. (2016). The use of x-ray micro computed tomography (m-ct) to understand crystalline biofilm blockage in urinary catheters. Neurourology and Urodynamics, 35, S328-S329.
Birkin, P. R., Offin, D. G., Vian, C. J. B., Howlin, R. P., Dawson, J. L., Secker, T. L., ... Leighton, T. G. (2015). Cold water cleaning of brain proteins, biofilm and bone - harnessing an ultrasonically activated stream. Physical Chemistry Chemical Physics, 17(32), 20574-20579. DOI: 10.1039/C5CP02406D
Secker, T., Pinchin, H., Hervé, R., & Keevil, C. (2015). Efficacy of humidity retention bags for the reduced adsorption and improved cleaning of tissue proteins including prion-associated amyloid to surgical stainless steel surfaces. Biofouling. DOI: 10.1080/08927014.2015.1067686
Michels, H. T., Keevil, C. W., Salgado, C. S., & Schmidt, M. G. (2015). From laboratory research to a clinical trial: copper alloy surfaces kill bacteria and reduce hospital-acquired infections. Health Environments Research and Design Journal, 9(1), 64-79. DOI: 10.1177/1937586715592650
Warnes, S. J., Little, Z. R., & Keevil, C. W. (2015). Human coronavirus 229E remains infectious on common touch surface materials. mBio, 6(e01697-15), 1-10. DOI: 10.1128/mBio.01697-15
Giao, M. S., Blanc, S., Porta, S., Belenguer, J., & Keevil, C. W. (2015). Improved recovery of Listeria monocytogenes from stainless steel and polytetrafluoroethylene surfaces using air/water ablation. Journal of Applied Microbiology, 119, 253-262. DOI: 10.1111/jam.12837
Warnes, S. L., Summersgill, E. N., & Keevil, C. W. (2015). Inactivation of murine norovirus on a range of copper alloy surfaces is accompanied by loss of capsid integrity. Applied and Environmental Microbiology, 81(3), 1085-1091. DOI: 10.1128/AEM.03280-14
Gião, M. S., Wilks, S. A., & Keevil, C. W. (2015). Influence of copper surfaces on biofilm formation by Legionella pneumophila in potable water. BioMetals, 28(2), 329-39. DOI: 10.1007/s10534-015-9835-y
Walker, D., & Keevil, C. W. (2015). Low concentration diffusible molecules affect the formation of biofilms by mixed marine communities. Cogent Biology, 1(1103830). DOI: 10.1080/23312025.2015.1103830
Al-Ahmad, A. (Ed.), Wilks, S. A., Fader, M. J., & Keevil, C. W. (2015). Novel insights into the Proteus mirabilis crystalline biofilm using real-time imaging. PLoS ONE, 10(10), 1-13. DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0141711
Herve, R., & Keevil, C. (2015). Reprocessing of luminal endoscopes: are we missing something? Institute of Decontamination Sciences Journal, 20(2), 24-28.
Phippen, C. W., Mikolajek, H., Schlaefli, H. G., Keevil, C. W., Webb, J. S., & Tews, I. (2014). Formation and dimerization of the phosphodiesterase active site of the Pseudomonas aeruginosa MorA, a bi-functional c-di-GMP regulator. FEBS Letters, 588(24), 4631-4636. DOI: 10.1016/j.febslet.2014.11.002
Gião, M. S., & Keevil, C. W. (2014). Listeria monocytogenes can form biofilms in tap water and enter into the viable but non-cultivable state. Microbial Ecology, 67(3), 603-11. DOI: 10.1007/s00248-013-0364-3
Hervé, R., & Keevil, C. W. (2013). Current limitations about the cleaning of luminal endoscopes. Journal of Hospital Infection, 83(1), 22-29. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhin.2012.08.008
Meier, A., Tsaloglou, N-M., Mowlem, M. C., Keevil, C. W., & Connelly, D. P. (2013). Hyperbaric biofilms on engineering surfaces formed in the deep sea. Biofouling, 29(9), 1029-1042. DOI: 10.1080/08927014.2013.824967
Warnes, S. L., & Keevil, C. W. (2013). Inactivation of norovirus on dry copper alloy surfaces. PLoS ONE, 8(9), 1-9. DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0075017
Almeida, C., Azevedo, N. F., Bento, J. C., Cerca, N., Ramos, H., Vieira, M. J., & Keevil, C. W. (2013). Rapid detection of urinary tract infections caused by Proteus spp. using PNA-FISH. European Journal of Clinical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases. DOI: 10.1007/s10096-012-1808-2
Cerqueira, L., Fernandes, R. M., Ferreira, R. M., Oleastro, M., Carneiro, F., Brandao, C., ... Azevedo, N. F. (2013). Validation of a PNA-FISH method for the detection of Helicobacter pylori clarithromycin resistance in gastric biopsies. Journal of Clinical Microbiology. DOI: 10.1128/JCM.00302-13
Secker, T. J., Hervé, R., Zhao, Q., Borisenko, K. B., Abel, E. W., & Keevil, C. W. (2012). Doped diamond-like carbon coatings for surgical instruments reduce protein and prion-amyloid biofouling and improve subsequent cleaning. Biofouling, 28(6), 563-569. DOI: 10.1080/08927014.2012.698387
Warnes, S. L., Highmore, C. J., & Keevil, C. W. (2012). Horizontal transfer of antibiotic resistance genes on abiotic touch surfaces: implications for public health. mBio, 3(6), e00489. DOI: 10.1128/mBio.00489-12
Gião, M. S., & Keevil, C. W. (2012). Hydrodynamic shear stress to remove Listeria monocytogenesbiofilms from stainless steel and polytetrafluoroethylene surfaces. Journal of Applied Microbiology, 114(1), 256-265. DOI: 10.1111/jam.12032
Secker, T. J., Hervé, R., & Keevil, C. W. (2012). Letter to the editor. Response to the letter from M. Feckie. Journal of Hospital Infection, 80(2), 181-182. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhin.2011.11.006
Warnes, S. L., Caves, V., & Keevil, C. W. (2012). Mechanism of copper surface toxicity in Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Salmonella involves immediate membrane depolarization followed by slower rate of DNA destruction which differs from that observed for Gram-positive bacteria. Environmental Microbiology, 14(7), 1730-1743. DOI: 10.1111/j.1462-2920.2011.02677.x
Azevedo, N. F., Bragança, S. M., Simões, L. C., Cerqueira, L., Almeida, C., Keevil, C. W., & Vieira, M. J. (2012). Proposal for a method to estimate nutrient shock effects in bacteria. BMC Research Notes, 5(1), 422. DOI: 10.1186/1756-0500-5-422
Secker, T. J., Hervé, R., & Keevil, C. W. (2011). Adsorption of prion and tissue proteins to surgical stainless steel surfaces and the efficacy of decontamination following dry and wet storage conditions. Journal of Hospital Infection, 78(4), 251-255. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhin.2011.03.021
Azevedo, N. F., Jardim, T., Almeida, C., Cerqueira, L., Almeida, A. J., Rodrigues, F., ... Vieira, M. J. (2011). Application of flow cytometry for the identification of Staphylococcus epidermidis by peptide nucleic acid fluorescence in situ hybridization (PNA FISH) in blood samples. Antonie van Leeuwenhoek, 100(3), 463-470. DOI: 10.1007/s10482-011-9595-9
Almeida, C., Azevedo, N. F., Santos, S., Keevil, C. W., & Vieira, M. J. (2011). Discriminating multi-species populations in biofilms with peptide nucleic acid fluorescence in situ hybridization (PNA FISH). PLoS ONE, 6(3), e14786-[13pp]. DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0014786
Collins, S. L., Hervé, R., Keevil, C. W., Blaydes, J. P., & Webb, J. S. (2011). Down-regulation of DNA mismatch repair enhances initiation and growth of neuroblastoma and brain tumour multicellular spheroids. PLoS ONE, 6(12), e28123. DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0028123
Gião, M. S., Azevedo, N. F., Wilks, S. A., Vieira, M. J., & Keevil, C. W. (2011). Interaction of legionella pneumophila and helicobacter pylori with bacterial species isolated from drinking water biofilms. BMC Microbiology, 11(1), 57-[10pp]. DOI: 10.1186/1471-2180-11-57
Warnes, S. L., & Keevil, C. W. (2011). Mechanism of copper surface toxicity in vancomycin-resistant enterococci following wet or dry surface contact. Applied and Environmental Microbiology, 77(17), 6049-6059. DOI: 10.1128/AEM.00597-11
Cerqueira, L., Fernandes, R. M., Ferreira, R. M., Carneiro, F., Dinis-Ribeiro, M., Figueiredo, C., ... Vieira, M. J. (2011). PNA-FISH as a new diagnostic method for the determination of clarithromycin resistance of Helicobacter pylori. BMC Microbiology, 11(1), 101-[7pp]. DOI: 10.1186/1471-2180-11-101
Almeida, C., Azevedo, N. F., Fernandes, R. M., Keevil, C. W., & Vieira, M. J. (2010). A fluorescence in situ hybridization method using a peptide nucleic acid probe for the identification of Salmonella spp. in a broad spectrum of samples. Applied and Environmental Microbiology. DOI: 10.1128/AEM.01678-09
Howlin, R. P., Khammo, N., Secker, T., McDonnell, G., & Keevil, C. W. (2010). Application of a fluorescent dual stain to assess decontamination of tissue protein and prion amyloid from surgical stainless steel during simulated washer-disinfector cycles. Journal of Hospital Infection, 75(1), 66-71. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhin.2009.12.023
Warnes, S. L., Gree, S. M., Michels, H. T., & Keevil, C. W. (2010). Biocidal efficacy of copper alloys against pathogenic enterococci involves degradation of genomic and plasmid DNAs. Applied and Environmental Microbiology, 76(16), 5390-5401. DOI: 10.1128/AEM.03050-09
Hervé, R., Secker, T. J., & Keevil, C. W. (2010). Current risk of iatrogenic Creutzfeld–Jakob disease in the UK: efficacy of available cleaning chemistries and reusability of neurosurgical instruments. Journal of Hospital Infection, 75(4), 309-313. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhin.2010.01.024
Giao, M. S., Azevedo, N. F., Wilks, S. A., Vieira, M. J., & Keevil, C. W. (2010). Effect of chlorine on incorporation of helicobacter pylori into drinking water biofilms. Applied and Environmental Microbiology, 76(5), 1669-1673. DOI: 10.1128/AEM.01378-09
Weaver, L., Noyce, J. O., Michels, H. T., & Keevil, C. W. (2010). Potential action of copper surfaces on meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Journal of Applied Microbiology, 109(6), 2200-2205. DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2672.2010.04852.x
Weaver, L., Michels, H. T., & Keevil, C. W. (2010). Potential for preventing spread of fungi in air-conditioning systems constructed using copper instead of aluminium. Letters in Applied Microbiology, 50(1), 18-23. DOI: 10.1111/j.1472-765X.2009.02753.x
Hervé, R., Collin, R., Pinchin, H. E., Secker, T., & Keevil, C. W. (2009). A rapid dual staining procedure for the quantitative discrimination of prion amyloid from tissues reveals how interactions between amyloid and lipids in tissue homogenates may hinder the detection of prions. Journal of Microbiological Methods, 77(1), 90-97. DOI: 10.1016/j.mimet.2009.01.017
Howlin, R., Harrison, J., Secker, T., & Keevil, C. W. (2009). Acquisition of proteinaceous contamination through the handling of surgical instruments by hospital staff in sterile service departments. Journal of Infection Prevention, 10(3), 106-111. DOI: 10.1177/1757177409105073
Giao, M. S., Wilks, S. A., Azevedo, N. F., Vieira, M. J., & Keevil, C. W. (2009). Comparison between standard culture and peptide nucleic acid 16S rRNA hybridization quantification to study the influence of physico-chemical parameters on Legionella pneumophila survival in drinking water biofilms. Biofouling, 25(4), 335. DOI: 10.1080/08927010902802232
Almeida, C., Azevedo, N. F., Iversen, C., Fanning, S., Keevil, C. W., & Vieira, M. J. (2009). Development and application of a novel peptide nucleic acid probe for the specific detection of cronobacter genomospecies (Enterobacter sakazakii) in powdered infant formula. Applied and Environmental Microbiology, 75(9), 2925-2930. DOI: 10.1128/AEM.02470-08
Michels, H. T., Noyce, J. O., & Keevil, C. W. (2009). Effects of temperature and humidity on the efficacy of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus challenged antimicrobial materials containing silver and copper. Letters in Applied Microbiology, 49(2), 191-195. DOI: 10.1111/j.1472-765X.2009.02637.x
Giao, M. S., Wilks, S., Azevedo, N. F., Vieira, M. J., & Keevil, C. W. (2009). Incorporation of natural uncultivable Legionella pneumophila into potable water biofilms provides a protective niche against chlorination stress. Biofouling, 25(4), 345-351. DOI: 10.1080/08927010902803305
Azevedo, N. F., Lopes, S. P., Keevil, C. W., Pereira, M. O., & Vieira, M. J. (2009). Time to “go large” on biofilm research: advantages of an omics approach. Biotechnology Letters, 31(4), 477-485. DOI: 10.1007/s10529-008-9901-4
Gião, M. S., Wilks, S. A., Azevedo, N. F., Vieira, M. J., & Keevil, C. W. (2009). Validation of SYTO 9/propidium iodide uptake for rapid detection of viable but noncultivable legionella pneumophila. Microbial Ecology, 58(1), 56-62. DOI: 10.1007/s00248-008-9472-x
Lipscomb, I. P., Sihota, A. K., & Keevil, C. W. (2008). Comparison between visual analysis and microscope assessment of surgical instrument cleanliness from sterile service departments. Journal of Hospital Infection, 68(1), 52-58. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhin.2007.08.009
Cerqueira, L., Azevedo, N. F., Almeida, C., Jardim, T., Keevil, C. W., & Vieira, M. J. (2008). DNA mimics for the rapid identification of microorganisms by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 9(10), 1944-1960. DOI: 10.3390/ijms9101944
Giao, M. S., Azevedo, N. F., Wilks, S. A., Vieira, M. J., & Keevil, C. W. (2008). Persistence of helicobacter pylori in heterotrophic drinking-water biofilms. Applied and Environmental Microbiology, 74(19), 5898-5904. DOI: 10.1128/AEM.00827-08
Weaver, L., Michels, H. T., & Keevil, C. W. (2008). Survival of Clostridium difficile on copper and steel: futuristic options for hospital hygiene. Journal of Hospital Infection, 68(2), 145-151. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhin.2007.11.011
Azevedo, N. F., Almeida, C., Fernandes, I., Cerqueira, L., Dias, S., Keevil, C. W., & Vieira, M. J. (2008). Survival of gastric and enterohepatic Helicobacter spp. in water: implications for transmission. Applied and Environmental Microbiology, 74(6), 1805-1811. DOI: 10.1128/AEM.02241-07
Warner, J. C., Rothwell, S. D., & Keevil, C. W. (2008). Use of episcopic differential interference contrast microscopy to identify bacterial biofilms on salad leaves and track colonization by Salmonella Thompson. Environmental Microbiology, 10(4), 918-925. DOI: 10.1111/j.1462-2920.2007.01511.x
Howlin, R. P., Harrison, J., McDonnell, G., & Keevil, C. W. (2008). What's on your device? Medical Device Decontamination, 12, 16-21.
Guimaraes, N., Azevedo, N. F., Figueiredo, C., Keevil, C. W., & Vieira, M. J. (2007). A multiroute way of transmission for Helicobacter pylori. Helicobacter, 12(4(P142)), p.456. DOI: 10.1111/j.1523-5378.2007.00540_20.x
Azevedo, N. F., Guimaraes, N., Figueiredo, C., Keevil, C. W., & Vieira, M. J. (2007). A new model for the transmission of Helicobacter pylori: Role of environmental reservoirs as gene pools to increase strain diversity. Critical Reviews in Microbiology, 33(3), 157-169. DOI: 10.1080/10408410701451922
Lipscomb, I. P., Herve, R., Harris, K., Pinchin, H., Collin, R., & Keevil, C. W. (2007). Amyloid-specific fluorophores for the rapid, sensitive in situ detection of prion contamination on surgical instruments. Journal of General Virology, 88, 2619-2626. DOI: 10.1099/vir.0.82228-0
Azevedo, N. F., Almeida, C., Cerqueira, L., Dias, S., Keevil, C. W., & Vieira, M. J. (2007). Coccoid form of Helicobacter pylori as a morphological manifestation of cell adaptation to the environment. Applied and Environmental Microbiology, 73(10), 3423-3427. DOI: 10.1128/AEM.00047-07
Juhna, T., Birzniece, D., Larsson, S., Zulenkovs, D., Sharipo, A., Azevedo, N. F., ... Keevil, C. W. (2007). Detection of Escherichia coli in biofilms from pipe samples and coupons in drinking water distribution networks. Applied and Environmental Microbiology, 73, 7456-7464. DOI: 10.1128/AEM.00845-07
Lipscomb, I. P., Pinchin, H. E., Collin, R., & Keevil, C. W. (2007). Effect of drying time, ambient temperature and pre-soaks on prion-infected tissue contamination levels on surgical stainless steel: concerns over prolonged transportation of instruments from theatre to central sterile service departments. Journal of Hospital Infection, 65(1), 72-77. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhin.2006.09.025
Noyce, J. O., Michels, H., & Keevil, C. W. (2007). Inactivation of influenza A virus on copper versus stainless steel surfaces. Applied and Environmental Microbiology, 73(8), 2748-2750. DOI: 10.1128/AEM.01139-06
Zhang, F. Z., Wagstaff, C., Rae, A. M., Sihota, A. K., Keevil, C. W., Rothwell, S. D., ... Taylor, G. (2007). QTL for shelf life in lettuce co-locate with those for leaf biophysical properties but not for leaf developmental traits. Journal of Experimental Botany, 58(6), 1433-1449. DOI: 10.1093/jxb/erm006
Azevedo, N. F., Giao, S., Almeida, C., Fernandes, I., Keevil, C. W., & Vieira, M. J. (2007). Relevance of heterotrophic biofilms on the agglomeration of Helicobacter pylori in water environments: Implications for transmission. Helicobacter, 12(4), 392. DOI: 10.1111/j.1523-5378.2007.00540_5.x
Lehtola, M. J., Torvinen, E., Kusnetsov, J., Pitkanen, T., Maunula, L., Bonsdorff, C. H., ... Miettinen, I. T. (2007). Survival of Mycobacterium avium, Legionella pneumophila, Escherichia coli, and caliciviruses in drinking water-associated biofilms grown under high-shear turbulent flow. Applied and Environmental Microbiology, 73(9), 2854-2859. DOI: 10.1128/AEM.02916-06
Azevedo, N. F., Pacheco, A. P., Keevil, C. W., & Vieira, M. J. (2006). Adhesion of water stressed Helicobacter pylori to abiotic surfaces. Journal of Applied Microbiology, 101(3), 718-724. DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2672.2006.03029.x
Lipscomb, I. P., Pinchin, H. E., Collin, R., Harris, K., & Keevil, C. W. (2006). Are surgical stainless steel wires used for intracranial implantation of PrPsc a good model of iatrogenic transmission from contaminated surgical stainless steel instruments after cleaning? Journal of Hospital Infection, 64(4), 339-343. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhin.2006.08.007
Azevedo, N. F., Almeida, C., Keevil, C. W., & Vieira, M. J. (2006). Coccoid morphology as a possible manifestation of Helicobacter pylori adaptation to adverse environments. Helicobacter, 11(4), 342-343.
Lipscomb, I. P., Sihota, A., & Keevil, C. W. (2006). Comparative study of surgical instruments from sterile-service departments for presence of residual gram-negative endotoxin and proteinaceous deposits. Journal of Clinical Microbiology, 44(10), 3728-3733. DOI: 10.1128/JCM.01280-06
Guimaraes, N. M., Azevedo, N. F., Figueiredo, C., Keevil, C. W., & Vieira, M. J. (2006). Development and application of a novel peptide nucleic acid (PNA) probe for the specific detection of Helicobacter pylori. Helicobacter, 11(Abs.10.10), 383-383. DOI: 10.1111/j.1523-5378.2006.00419_12.x
Simoes, L. C., Azevedo, N., Pacheco, A., Keevil, C. W., & Vieira, M. J. (2006). Drinking water biofilm assessment of total and culturable bacteria under different operating conditions. Biofouling, 22(2), 91-99. DOI: 10.1080/08927010600598603
Lehtola, M. J., Torvinen, E., Miettinen, I. T., & Keevil, C. W. (2006). Fluorescence in situ hybridization using peptide nucleic acid probes for rapid detection of Mycobacterium avium subsp. avium and Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis in potable-water biofilms. Applied and Environmental Microbiology, 72(1), 848-853. DOI: 10.1128/AEM.72.1.848-853.2006
Keevil, C. W., & Lipscomb, I. (2006). How clean is clean? Institute of Decontamination Sciences Journal, 10(4), 32-34.
Lipscomb, I. P., Sihota, A., & Keevil, C. W. (2006). Letter to the Editor. Diathermy forceps and pencils: reservoirs for protein and prion contamination? Journal of Hospital Infection, 64(2), 193-194. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhin.2006.05.011
Noyce, J. O., Michels, H., & Keevil, C. W. (2006). Potential use of copper surfaces to reduce survival of epidemic meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in the healthcare environment. Journal of Hospital Infection, 63(3), 289-297. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhin.2005.12.008
Lipscomb, I. P., Sihota, A., Botham, M., Harris, K. L., & Keevil, C. W. (2006). Rapid method for the sensitive detection of protein contamination on surgical instruments. Journal of Hospital Infection, 62(2), 141-148. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhin.2005.07.008
Azevedo, N. F., Pinto, A. R., Reis, N. M., Vieira, M. J., & Keevil, C. W. (2006). Shear stress, temperature and inoculation concentration influence on the adhesion of water-stressed Helicobacter pylori to stainless steel 304 and polypropylene. Applied and Environmental Microbiology, 72(4), 2936-2941. DOI: 10.1128/AEM.72.4.2936-2941.2006
Wilks, S. A., MichelS, H. T., & Keevil, C. W. (2006). Survival of Listeria monocytogenes Scott a on metal surfaces: Implications for cross-contamination. International Journal of Food Microbiology, 111(2), 93-98. DOI: 10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2006.04.037
Wilks, S. A., & Keevil, C. W. (2006). Targeting species-specific low-affinity 16S rRNA binding sites by using peptide nucleic acids for detection of legionellae in biofilms. Applied and Environmental Microbiology, 72(8), 5453-5462. DOI: 10.1128/AEM.02918-05
Lipscomb, I. P., Pinchin, H. E., Collin, R., Harris, K., & Keevil, C. W. (2006). The sensitivity of approved Ninhydrin and Biuret tests in the assessment of protein contamination on surgical steel as an aid to prevent iatrogenic prion transmission. Journal of Hospital Infection, 64(3), 288-292. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhin.2006.07.007
Noyce, J. O., Michels, H., & Keevil, C. W. (2006). Use of copper cast alloys to control Escherichia coli O157 cross-contamination during food processing. Applied and Environmental Microbiology, 72(6), 4239-4244. DOI: 10.1128/AEM.02532-05
Lehtola, M. J., Loades, C. J., & Keevil, C. W. (2005). Advantages of peptide nucleic acid oligonucleotides for sensitive site directed 16S rRNA fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) detection of Campylobacter jejuni, Campylobacter coli and Campylobacter lari. Journal of Microbiological Methods, 62(2), 211-219. DOI: 10.1016/j.mimet.2005.02.009
Azevedo, N. F., Pacheco, A. P., Pinto, A. R., Keevil, C. W., & Vieira, M. J. (2005). Factors affecting the adhesion of water-stressed Helicobacter pylori to plumbing materials. Helicobacter, 10(5), p.485. DOI: 10.1111/j.1523-5378.2005.00342.x
Wilks, S. A., Michels, H., & Keevil, C. W. (2005). The survival of Escherichia coli O157 on a range of metal surfaces. International Journal of Food Microbiology, 105(3), 445-454. DOI: 10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2005.04.021
Horan, N. J., Fletcher, L., Betmal, S. M., Wilks, S. A., & Keevil, C. W. (2004). Die-off of enteric bacterial pathogens during mesophilic anaerobic digestion. Water Research, 38(5), 1113-1120. DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2003.12.004
Azevedo, N. F., Pacheco, A. P., Keevil, C. W., & Vieira, M. J. (2004). Nutrient shock and incubation atmosphere influence recovery of culturable Helicobacter pylori from water. Applied and Environmental Microbiology, 70(1), 490-493. DOI: 10.1128/AEM.70.1.490-493.2004
Keevil, C. W. (2004). The physico-chemistry of biofilm-mediated pitting corrosion of copper pipe supplying potable water. Water Science & Technology, 49(2), 91-98.
Azevedo, N. F., Vieira, M. J., & Keevil, C. W. (2003). Establishment of a continuous model system to study Helicobacter pylori survival in potable water biofilms. Water Science & Technology, 47(5), 155-160.
Keevil, C. W. (2003). Rapid detection of biofilms and adherent pathogens using scanning confocal laser microscopy and episcopic differential interference contrast microscopy. Water Science & Technology, 47(5), 105-116.
Lynch, M. J., Swift, S., Kirke, D. F., Keevil, C. W., Dodd, C. E. R., & Williams, P. (2002). The regulation of biofilm development by quorum sensing in Aeromonas hydrophila. Environmental Microbiology, 4(1), 18-28. DOI: 10.1046/j.1462-2920.2002.00264.x
Keevil, C. W. (2001). Continuous culture models to study pathogens in biofilms. Methods in Enzymology: Microbial Growth in Biofilms Part B, (337), 104-122. DOI: 10.1016/S0076-6879(01)37010-6

Book Chapters

Hervé, R., & Keevil, C. W. (2012). Quantitative analysis on the removal of proteins and prions from medical devices. In D. Riesner, J-P. Deslys, & M. Pocchiari (Eds.), Decontamination of Prions (pp. 241-249). Düsseldorf, DE: Düsseldorf University Press.
Wilks, S., & Keevil, C. (2006). Suitability of peptide nucleic acid probes to detect Legionellae in mains drinking water supplies. In N. Cianciotto (Ed.), Legionella: state of the art 30 years after its recognition. Contributions presented at the 6th International Conference on Legionella, Chicago, Illinois, USA, 16-20 October 2005 ASM Press. DOI: 10.1128/9781555815660.ch105
Keevil, C. (2003). Pathogens in environmental biofilms. In G. Bitton (Ed.), The Encyclopedia of Environmental Microbiology (pp. 2339-2356). New York, US: Wiley. DOI: 10.1002/0471263397.env202
Warnes, S., & Keevil, C. W. (2003). Survival of Cryptosporidium parvum in faecal wastes and salad crops. In G. Duffy (Ed.), Cryptosporidium parvum in Food and Water (pp. 15-24). Dublin, IE: Teagasc.

Conferences

Wilks, S., Newland, R., Bryant, C., Keevil, C., Fader, M., & Tincello, D. (2017). Biofilm development on polypropylene midurethrel tape (MUT): implications for post-operative exposure and extrusion. Poster session presented at Incontinence, London, United Kingdom.
Katis, I., He, P., Sherwin, S., Keevil, C., Eason, R., & Sones, C. (2017). Laser manufactured paper devices for multiplexed detection of bacteria and their resistance to antibiotics. Paper presented at EUROMAT 2017, Thessaloniki, Greece.
Wilks, S., Katsamenis, O. L., Carugo, D., Keevil, C., & Fader, M. (2017). The use of micro-computed tomography and advanced imaging techniques to study crystalline biofilm blockages in urinary catheters. Poster session presented at Incontinence, London, United Kingdom.
Leighton, T., Secker, T., Dolder, C., Voegeli, D., & Keevil, W. (2017). Ultrasonic activated stream cleaning of a range of materials. Journal of the Acoustical Society of America, 141(5), 3868. DOI: 10.1121/1.4988650
Wilks, S., Katsamenis, O. L., Carugo, D., Fader, M., & Keevil, C. (2016). The use of X-Ray micro-computed tomography (μ-CT) to understand crystalline biofilm blockage in urinary catheters. Poster session presented at International Continence Society, Tokyo, Japan.
Wilks, S., Fader, M., & Keevil, C. (2015). A new understanding of the Proteus mirabilis crystalline biofilm: Implications for catheter management. Paper presented at UK Continence Society Annual Society, London, United Kingdom.
Wilks, S., Fader, M., & Keevil, C. (2015). Understanding catheter-associated Proteus mirabilis biofilm blockage: the application of advanced microscopy techniques. In IMechE Proceedings, Incontinence: The engineering challenge X IMechE.
Wilks, S., Prieto, J., Fader, M., & Keevil, C. (2014). New approaches in the detection of biofilms on catheters. Paper presented at RCN International Nursing Conference 2014, Glasgow, United Kingdom.
Wilks, S., Prieto, J., Fader, M., & Keevil, C. (2014). Unravelling catheter biofilms: A new approach. Poster session presented at International Continence Society, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Keevil, C., & Wilks, S. (2012). An alternative view of the 3D heterogeneous mosaic structure of mono and polymicrobial species biofilms. Paper presented at Biofilms 5, Paris, France.
Wilks, S., Giao Teixeira de Carvalho, M. S., & Keevil, C. (2012). Comparison of methods for the detection of culturable and VBNC E. coli O157:H7 in complex drinking water biofilms. Poster session presented at American Society of Microbiology General Meeting, San Francisco, United States.
Wilks, S., Koerfer, V., Prieto, J., Fader, M., & Keevil, C. W. (2012). New approaches in the detection of biofilms on catheters. Association for Continence Advice Conference & Exhibition 2012, United Kingdom.
Keevil, C., Giao Teixeira de Carvalho, M. S., Warnes, S. L., & Wilks, S. (2011). Antimicrobial properties of copper surfaces in healthcare settings. Paper presented at International Biodeterioration and Biodegradation, Vienna, Austria.
Wilks, S., & Keevil, C. (2011). Molecular methods reveal survival of E. coli O157 following high dose disinfection of drinking wate. Paper presented at Faecal Indicators, Edinburgh, United Kingdom.
Keevil, C. W., & Wilks, S. A. (2011). Rapid confirmation of microbiological alerts using off-line molecular methods. In U. Borchers, & K. C. Thompson (Eds.), Water Contamination Emergencies: Monitoring, Understanding and Acting (pp. 48-58). London, GB: Royal Society of Chemistry.
Wilks, S., & Keevil, C. (2010). Improved methods show survival of E. coli O157:H7 in potable water biofilms following treatment with high chlorine concentrations. Poster session presented at Water Contamination Emergencies, Mülheim an der Ruhr, Germany.
Wilks, S., & Keevil, C. (2010). Legionella pneumophila is an autochthonous species of potable water biofilms. Poster session presented at Biofilms 4, Winchester, United Kingdom.
Giao teixeira de carvalho, M. S., Azevedo, N. F., Wilks, S., Vieira, M. J., & Keevil, C. (2008). Influence of physico-chemical parameters on the survival of Helicobacter pylori in drinking water biofilms.
Wilks, S., Giao teixeira de carvalho, M. S., Vieira, M. J., & Keevil, C. (2007). Legionella pneumophila is an abundant and chlorine tolerant autochthonous member of potable water biofilms. Poster session presented at American Society of Microbiology General Meeting, Toronto, Canada.
Wilks, S., & Keevil, C. (2006). Detection and quantification of legionellae in potable water: a comparison of methods. Poster session presented at 11th International Symposium on Microbial Ecology, Vienna, Austria.
Keevil, C., Azevedo, N. F., Juhna, T., Lehtola, M. J., & Wilks, S. (2006). Enhanced performance of peptide nucleic probes for fluorescence in situ hybridisation detection of microorganisms in the environment. Poster session presented at 11th International Symposium on Microbial Ecology, Vienna, Austria.
Giao teixeira de carvalho, M. S., Wilks, S., Vieira, M. J., & Keevil, C. (2006). Influence of carbon concentration, shear stress and temperature on survival of Legionella pneumophila in drinking water biofilms. Paper presented at ASM Biofilms, Montreal, Canada.
Wilks, S., & Keevil, C. (2006). Prevalence of Legionella pneumophila in potable water biofilms. Poster session presented at 11th International Symposium on Microbial Ecology, Vienna, Austria.
Wilks, S., & Keevil, C. (2006). Visualisation of Legionella in potable water biofilms. Poster session presented at American Society of Microbiology General Meeting, Orlando, United States.
Wilks, S., & Keevil, C. (2005). The rapid detection of legionellae in biofilms on mains drinking water pipes. Paper presented at Water Micro, Swansea, United Kingdom.
Wilks, S., Azevedo, N. F., Juhna, T., Lehtola, M. J., & Keevil, C. (2005). Tools for the rapid detection of pathogens in mains drinking water supplies. Poster session presented at Water Contamination Emergencies, Manchester, United Kingdom.
Azevedo, N., Vieira, M. J., & Keevil, C. (2003). Development of peptide nucleic acid probes to detect Helicobacter pylori in diverse species potable water biofilms. In J. Walker, A. McBain, D. Allison, M. Brading, A. Rikard, & J. Verran (Eds.), Biofilm Communities: Order From Chaos? (pp. 105-112). Cardiff, GB: BioLine.
Wilks, S., & Keevil, C. (2003). Improved work surfaces to prevent cross-contamination and spread of Listeria monocytogenes. Poster session presented at American Society of Microbiology General Meeting, Washington DC, United States.
Wilks, S., & Keevil, C. (2003). Structure of diverse species potable water biofilms in the Propella® reactor. Paper presented at Biofilms Club, Gregynog, United Kingdom.
Clark, S. A., Watkins, J., Wilks, S. A., & Keevil, C. W. (2003). The use of commercial products for the detection of Cryptosporidium oocysts throughout the food chain. In Cryptosporidium parvum in food and water (pp. 84-93). Carlow, IE: Teagasc.

Reports

Weaver, L., Keevil, C. W., Warnes, S. L., & Horizontal Hygeine (2005). Critical review on: feasibility of horizontal standard rapid method for detection of Clostridium perfringens and enterococci in sludges, soil, soil improvers, growing media and biowastes. (Horizontal Standards on Hygienic Microbiological parameters for Implementation of EU Directives on Sludge, Soil and Treated Biowastes; No. HOR-HYG WP 2/2). Southampton, GB: University of Southampton.
Warnes, S. L., Keevil, C. W., & Horizontal Hygeine (2004). Desk studies on feasibility of horizontal standard rapid methods for detection of Clostridium perfringens and enterococci in sludges, soil, soil improvers, growing media and biowastes. (Work Package 3; No. Task 4). Southampton, GB: University of Southampton.
Warnes, S. L., Keevil, C. W., & Horizontal Hygeine (2004). Desk studies on feasibility of horizontal standard rapid methods for detection of E. coli (including E. coli O157) and Salmonella. (Work Package 3; No. Task 3B). Southampton, GB: University of Southampton.

Lecturer

BIOL1007 Macromolecules of Life
BIOL1020 Bioanalysis
BIOL2022 Immunology, Infection and Inflammation
BIOL2038 Microbiology - From the Natural Environment to Disease
BIOL3017 The Molecular Structural Basis of Disease
BIOL3057 Biofilms and Microbial Communities

Project Supervisor

BIOL3031 Literature-based Research Project
BIOL3032 Literature-based Research Project
BIOL3034 In-depth Research Project
BIOL3060 Science Communication
BIOL6011 Advanced Library Project 1

Professional membership

Member of EPSRC National Centre for Advanced Tribology (nCATS) Management Board
Biological Sciences Liaison Officer with Society of Biology, London
MOD Independent Scientific and Technical Advice (ISTA) Register
DEFRA Drinking Water Inspectorate Rapid Methods Committee, London
DoH Decontamination Working Group, London
IWW Rheinisch-Westfaelisches Institut für Wasser, Mulheim, External Management Board
CEN TC308 WG1 Committee, Brussels
British Standards Institute EH/5 Wastes Committee, London

Professor Bill Keevil
School of Biological Sciences
Faculty of Environmental and Life Sciences
Life Sciences Building 85
University of Southampton
Highfield Campus
Southampton
SO17 1BJ

Room Number: 85/4059

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