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Sheng Sun

Associate Research Professor in Molecular Genetics and Microbiology
Molecular Genetics and Microbiology
213 Research Drive, CARL Building Room 320, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710

Current Appointments & Affiliations


Associate Research Professor in Molecular Genetics and Microbiology · 2023 - Present Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Basic Science Departments

Recent Publications


STRIPAK complex defects result in pseudosexual reproduction in Cryptococcus neoformans.

Journal Article PLoS Genet · June 30, 2025 STRIPAK is an evolutionarily conserved signaling complex that coordinates diverse cellular processes across fungi and animals. In the human fungal pathogen Cryptococcus neoformans, STRIPAK was recently shown to play critical roles in maintaining genome sta ... Full text Link to item Cite

Essential genes encoded by the mating-type locus of the human fungal pathogen Cryptococcus neoformans.

Journal Article mBio · April 9, 2025 Fungal sexual reproduction is controlled by the mating-type (MAT) locus. In contrast to a majority of species in the phylum Basidiomycota that have tetrapolar mating-type systems, the opportunistic human pathogen Cryptococcus neoformans employs a bipolar m ... Full text Link to item Cite
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Recent Grants


Calcineurin signaling cascades governing Cryptococcus virulence

ResearchInvestigator · Awarded by National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases · 2023 - 2028

The Genetic Basis of Virulence in Cryptococcus Neoformans

ResearchCo-Principal Investigator · Awarded by National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases · 2017 - 2028

RNAi-dependent epimutation roles in antimicrobial drug resistance and pathogenesis

ResearchCo Investigator · Awarded by National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases · 2022 - 2027

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Education, Training & Certifications


McMaster University (Canada) · 2009 Ph.D.