Current Appointments & Affiliations
Associate Research Professor in Molecular Genetics and Microbiology
·
2023 - Present
Molecular Genetics and Microbiology,
Basic Science Departments
Recent Publications
Unisexual reproduction in the global human fungal pathogen Cryptococcus neoformans.
Journal Article Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A · October 21, 2025 The human fungal pathogen Cryptococcus species complex (encompassing Cryptococcus neoformans, Cryptococcus deneoformans, and the Cryptococcus gattii species complexes) exhibits diversity in sexual reproduction, including α-a mating, pseudosexual reproducti ... Full text Link to item CiteMeiosis-specific genes play roles in ploidy reduction in Cryptococcus neoformans titan cells.
Journal Article bioRxiv · September 18, 2025 Cryptococcus neoformans is a fungal pathogen of humans that causes life-threatening meningoencephalitis. During infection, enlarged, polyploid titan cells are produced that promote survival, evade immune cells, and generate diverse progeny. These titan cel ... Full text Link to item CiteRecent Grants
Calcineurin signaling cascades governing Cryptococcus virulence
ResearchInvestigator · Awarded by National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases · 2023 - 2028The Genetic Basis of Virulence in Cryptococcus Neoformans
ResearchCo-Principal Investigator · Awarded by National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases · 2017 - 2028RNAi-dependent epimutation roles in antimicrobial drug resistance and pathogenesis
ResearchCo Investigator · Awarded by National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases · 2022 - 2027View All Grants
Education, Training & Certifications
McMaster University (Canada) ·
2009
Ph.D.