Primary Faculty

Research Interest:
We study infection and evolutionary mechanisms in Helicobacter pylori, a widespread, genetically diverse bacterial pathogen implicated in peptic ulcer disease and gastric cancer.

Research Interest:
Molecular genetics and genomics of the protozoan parasite Leishmania major, including virulence in the insect and mammalian hosts, and strategies for control.

Research Interest:
Our research work is defining the molecular mechanisms of hepatitis C virus replication and the HCV-host interactions critical for viral replication.

Research Interest:
The pathogenic yeast Cryptococcus neoformans, using biochemistry, cell and molecular biology, genetics, and genomic approaches to elucidate its fascinating biology and pathogenesis.

Research Interest:
Pathogenesis of infections caused by Gram positive bacteria. Gene regulation and mechanisms of toxin secretion by Group A streptococci.

Research Interest:
Regulation and evolution of pathogenic and symbiotic bacteria.

Research Interest:
RNA virus evolution. Molecular biology of alphaviruses. Alphavirus gene expression vectors. Antiviral drug design.

Research Interest:
Our lab blends genetic, genomic, imaging, structural, biochemical, clinical and translational strategies to study the interface between a pathogen and itís host.

Research Interest:
My lab integrates bacterial genetics, analytical glycobiology, comparative phylogeny and infection models to study the evolution and functions of bacterial surface carbohydrates. Mechanistic studies focus on the perinatal pathogen Group B Streptococcus.

Research Interest:
Signal transduction, cell wall biosynthesis and resistance to oxidative and nitrosative stresses  in the pathogenic fungus, Cryptococcus neoformans.

Research Interest:
We are using comparative genomics and genetics to define virulence determinants in the model intracellular parasite Toxoplasma gondii. and to examine the cellular and molecular basis of motility and host cell invasion.

Research Interest:
Structural, biochemical and cellular studies of erythrocyte invasion by Plasmodium parasites. Development of drugs and vaccines.

Research Interest:
We study the ability of Legionella pneumophila and Coxiella burnetii to replicate inside host cells, specifically focusing on the pathogensí type IV secretion systems.

Research Interest:
Detection, identification and characterization of novel and emerging viruses.

Research Interest:
We study host and viral processes fundamental to the biology of cytomegalovirus, and delineate molecular mechanisms of cytomegalovirus replication and pathogenesis.