Research

Respiratory viruses in immunocompromised patients

Despite vaccination and antiviral therapies, infections with respiratory viruses can cause severe illness in immunocompromised patients, such as those undergoing stem cell transplantation, chemotherapy for leukemia, or CAR-T cell treatment. Our studies aim to improve diagnostic tools, characterize risk factors for severe disease, and identify the most effective treatments for these infections in high-risk populations.

Stacked bar chart with x‑axis labeled “Weeks of Isolation” and y‑axis labeled “Number of Patients.” Categories include asymptomatic (white), developed symptoms (gray), and false positive (black). Patient counts peak in the >3–4 week range (about 12 total: roughly 5 asymptomatic, 6 developed symptoms, 1 false positive) and are also high in the >2–3 week range (about 10 total). Early intervals (0–2 weeks) show low counts and include all false positive cases. Few patients are in longer durations (>5 weeks), with 1–3 patients per interval. — Our study demonstrated limited utility of SARS-CoV-2 screening tests in asymptomatic HCT and CAR T-cell patients.

Clincal trials

More effective therapies for infections in immunocompromised patients are urgently needed. I serve as an investigator on multiple clinical trials in order to help advance the development of essential new medications and tests for our patients.

SARS-CoV-2 Screening — CDC public domain.

Medical education & mentorship

Infectious Disease Sciences (IDS) Summer Scholars Internship Program

The IDS Summer Scholars program connects undergraduate and first year medical or pharmacy students with scientific and clinical leaders focused on immunocompromised people. This is a paid, 8-week long internship in Seattle, WA. Find out more on the IDS Summer Internship page.