My laboratory studies the structure and assembly of small DNA viruses. Specifically we are addressing three fundamental control points : 1) how is capsid assembly prevented in the cytoplasm, 2) how do the capsid proteins identify their genome for encapsidation, and 3) are specific nuclear sites used as 'workbenches' to couple viral DNA replication with capsid assembly. Our study of human papillomavirus assembly has been translated into the development of vaccine reagents for the prevention of cervical cancer. We are also developing new methods of vaccine storage and administration in order to generate thermostable, single-shot formulation of several antigens suitable for use in resource-poor areas of the world.
keywords
structure and assembly of small DNA viruses with a focus on polyoma and papillomaviruses, development of low cost HPV vaccines for underdeveloped countries, new methods of vaccine delivery
BCHM 6901 - Research in Biochemistry
Primary Instructor
-
Fall 2020 / Spring 2021 / Fall 2021 / Spring 2022 / Fall 2022 / Spring 2023 / Fall 2023 / Spring 2024
May be repeated up to 15 total credit hours.
CHEM 6901 - Research in Chemistry
Primary Instructor
-
Fall 2018 / Spring 2019 / Fall 2019 / Spring 2020
May be repeated up to 15 total credit hours.
MCDB 4750 - Animal Virology
Primary Instructor
-
Spring 2018 / Spring 2019 / Spring 2020 / Spring 2021 / Spring 2023
Encompasses the structure and replication of both lytic and transforming animal viruses. Emphasizes diversity of naturally occurring genomic structures and the resulting strategies of infection as well as the impact of viral epidemics on society. Includes critical analysis of primary research papers. Fulfills MCDB scientific reasoning requirement. Recommended prerequisite: MCDB 3135 (minimum grade C-) or instructor consent required. Same as MCDB 5750.
MCDB 4980 - Honors Research
Primary Instructor
-
Fall 2020
Provides faculty-supervised research for students who have been approved by the departmental honors committee. Normally taken during the semester before completion of the honors thesis. Recommended prerequisite: MCDB 4840 or comparable research experience, and minimum GPA of 3.20.
MCDB 4990 - Honors Thesis
Primary Instructor
-
Spring 2019 / Spring 2021
Involves the preparation and defense of an honors thesis, based on faculty-supervised original research, including final phases of the research project. Recommended prerequisites: MCDB 4840 or MCDB 4980 or comparable research experience, and minimum GPA of 3.3 and approval by the MCDB Honors Committee.
MCDB 5750 - Animal Virology
Primary Instructor
-
Spring 2018 / Spring 2019 / Spring 2020 / Spring 2021
Encompasses the structure and replication of both lytic and transforming animal viruses. Emphasizes diversity of naturally occurring genomic structures and the resulting strategies of infection as well as the impact of viral epidemics on society. Includes critical analysis of primary research papers. Fulfills MCDB scientific reasoning requirement. Course has additional graduate student level requirements. Same as MCDB 4750.
MCDB 6000 - Introduction to Laboratory Methods
Primary Instructor
-
Spring 2018
Introduces methodology and techniques used in biological research. Designed as a tutorial between a few students and one faculty member. Students are expected to read original research papers, discuss findings, and to plan and execute experiments in selected areas. May be repeated up to 15 total credit hours.
