Infection Dynamics

Our research combines experimental and theoretical techniques to investigate mechanisms in virology, immunology, and infectious disease epidemiology.  We use quantitative methods in conjunction with data in order to predict unforeseen biological mechanisms, determine biologically important rate parameters, and evaluate pathogenic mechanisms that are difficult to test directly.  Our systems biology approach, which couples mathematics with experiments, aims to advance our basic understanding of pathogenic mechanisms and lead to new therapeutic strategies.

Current Projects

We are examining the control of lentiviral infection, including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and equine infectious anemia virus (EIAV). We use mathematical and computational models of viral dynamics with clinical and experimental data to elucidate the determinants of virus control and escape. Our long-term goal is to uncover fundamental viral or immune mechanisms and to develop effective strategies for intervention and control.

Other current projects investigate viral evolution in bacteriophage populations, the effect of antiretroviral therapy on decreasing the development of kidney disease among HIV+ populations, and COVID-19 infection dynamics.