Epidemiology and Human Genetics
Area of Doctoral Study: Epidemiology
Undergraduate Institute: Miami University – Oxford
Research Advisor: Mark Travassos, M.D., M.Sc.
Description of Research
I study the var gene family of Plasmodium falciparum, the malaria parasite responsible for the most malaria deaths. Var genes encode antigens that mediate cytoadhesion to host cells and play a critical role in immune evasion. I am interested in how the expression of var genes at the RNA and protein level is associated with severe malaria. Identification of antigens associated with the development of severe disease will determine potential vaccine targets and inform the treatment of severe disease.