Research Centre for Infectious Diseases

The Molecular and Translational Microbiology Laboratory develops new vaccines and antimicrobials to prevent and treat bacterial infections by uncovering and targeting the mechanisms that cause disease. Our work combines molecular microbiology, vaccine design and preclinical testing, and antimicrobial target discovery to develop solutions that reduce infection and antimicrobial resistance in human and animal health.

Half of the world’s population is at risk of infection with mosquito-borne malaria parasites, with related parasites also the cause of widespread disease and death in humans, livestock and wildlife. Our work explores the unique biology that allows malaria, Toxoplasma, Cryptosporidium and Eimeria parasites to cause disease using gene-editing, proteomics and imaging approaches. We then leverage these new insights into novel drug and vaccine approaches that prevent or treat disease.

Respiratory viral infections cause significant morbidity and mortality. T cells are critical to co-ordinate, execute and regulate immune responses in the context of respiratory viral infection. The Lymphocyte Biology Laboratory led by Dr Iain Comerford are focussed on understanding the basic mechanisms that govern T cell recruitment, differentiation and regulation in the context of acute viral infection of the lung.

Vaccination is the most effect control strategy against viral and bacterial pathogens. We aim to develop highly effective whole inactivated vaccines using gamma-irradiation as a method of inactivation. Our leading vaccine candidates include gamma-irradiated pneumococcal vaccine (currently in clinical trials) and influenza A virus vaccine. Both vaccines are capable of providing broad-spectrum protection compared to existing vaccines. Our research uses animal models and in vitro techniques to understand the underlying mechanisms for the cross-protective immunity induced by our vaccines.

RNA viral infection results in significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. The Viral Pathogenesis Research Laboratory is interested in the host cellular response to viral infection and identification of genes and signalling pathways that are induced in an attempt to control viral replication in particular for the Flaviviridae family of viruses such as HCV, DENV and ZIKV. We employ cutting edge molecular techniques such as CRISPR KO and activation screens to identify cellular pro- and anti-viral host factors

The Pathogen Genomics team leverages microbial whole-genome sequencing to investigate antimicrobial resistance and track pathogen transmission. We develop novel genomic tools that aim to enhance public health responses and reduce the burden of infectious diseases.