Alexander Lafrance is pursuing a doctoral degree in molecular microbiology at The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. His research focuses on the structure, function, regulation, and interactions of toxins and other molecular tools utilized by pathogenic bacteria to cause disease. As a rural New Englander turned urban Texan and amateur history buff, Lafrance is passionate about bridging communication gaps between disciplines, demographics, and cultures to foster collaboration, promote education, and reduce partisanship. He hopes to apply his research background to multidisciplinary biodefense and national security initiatives, and through his Archer Fellowship experience, plans to pursue a career in intelligence analysis and national security policy.