Research in the Richard Chaisson Lab primarily examines tuberculosis and HIV infection, with specific focus on global epidemiology, clinical trials, diagnostics and public health interventions. Our recent research has involved evaluating a molecular diagnostic test for tuberculosis in HIV patients; observing TB responses during treatment of pulmonary tuberculosis; and examining antiretroviral therapy adherence, virologic and immunologic outcomes in adolescents compared with adults in Southern Africa.

The Rakhi Naik Lab studies sickle cell disease. We focus on complications related to the disease, including chronic kidney disease and venous thromboembolism. By defining the risks and factors for diseases related to the sickle cell trait, we hope to improve genetic counseling and screening and treatment recommendations. Other research in the lab examines the epidemiology and unique mechanisms of thrombosis in patients with hemoglobin disorders. Specifically, we are trying to identify mechanisms of hypercoagulability and develop treatments for patients with hemoglobinopathies.

Research interests in the Richard Moore Lab include clinical epidemiology, costs, cost-effectiveness and outcomes of HIV/AIDS. We recently examined whether the effect of delaying antiretroviral therapy initiation in HIV-positive adults is modified by age at entry into care.

Research in the Patrick Breysse Lab seeks to better understand the biological, chemical and physical factors that can impact a patient’s health. Our team is currently studying the effects of indoor and outdoor air pollution on childhood asthma, respiratory tract infections, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other respiratory conditions. We also conduct research on secondhand smoke exposure around the world and have participated in a range of health and exposure studies in Peru, Nepal, Mongolia, Columbia and India.

Research in the Ariel Green Lab focuses on informing and improving decisions surrounding the use of invasive medical technologies for older adults with complex medical diseases. Our long-term goals are to conduct epidemiologic research, create public health initiatives, and help shape policies that improve the lives of older adults.

The Anna Durbin Lab evaluates experimental vaccines through human clinical trials. We have conducted both pediatric and adult clinical trials on vaccines for HIV, hepatitis C, HPV, influenza, malaria, dengue virus, rotavirus and other viruses. We also have a longstanding interest in better understanding the immunologic factors of dengue infection and disease. We’re working to identify the viral, host and immunologic factors that cause severe dengue illness.

Research in the Alison E. Turnbull Lab focuses on patient-clinician interactions. We study decision-making processes for ICU patients and their families and focus on the long-term outcomes of ICU survivors. Additional research examines ways to improve end-of-life care for patients.

Research in the Jeanne Clark Lab covers a wide range of fields, employing various research techniques, methods and procedures to generate and disseminate the knowledge required to prevent disease and its consequences. Our most recent research program, Look AHEAD, focuses on the health of overweight volunteers with type 2 diabetes. We are examining the long-term effects of an intensive lifestyle intervention program designed to achieve and maintain weight loss by decreased caloric intake and increased physical activity.

Work in the Cynthia Sears Laboratory focuses on the bacterial contributions to the development of human colon cancer and the impact of the microbiome on other cancers and the therapy of cancer. The current work involves mouse and human studies to define how enterotoxigenic Bacteroides fragilis, pks+ Escherichia coli, Fusobacterium nucleatum, biofilms and the colonic microbiota induce chronic colonic inflammation and colon cancer. Prospective human studies of the microbiome and biofilms in screening colonoscopy are in progress as are studies to determine if and how the microbiome impacts the response of individuals with cancer to immunotherapy and other cancer therapies.

Research in the Caleb Alexander Lab examines prescription drug use. This includes studies of population-based patterns and determinants of pharmaceutical use, clinical decision-making about prescription drugs, and the effect of changes in regulatory and payment policies on pharmaceutical utilization. We have special expertise in conducting survey-based studies and analyzing secondary data sources, including administrative claims, the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey and the National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey.