My research involves developing new technologies and innovative approaches to understand bacterial pathogenesis and to generate useful therapies (drugs and vaccines).  My research team developed novel approaches to address specific questions relevant to bacterial pathogenesis such as the identification of types of genes expressed during infection and the host responses to such gene products.  Currently, we are working on the functional genomics of M. tuberculosis (M. tuberculosis) and M. avium subsp. paratuberculosis (M. paratuberculosis).  In particular, we are investigating questions related to the role of copper metabolism on M. tuberculosis persistence and the role played by major sigma factors on M. paratuberculosis survival during infection.  We are also taking advantage of genetically modified organisms to develop more effective vaccines against tuberculosis and Johne’s disease.  Recently, we received funding to employ nanotechnology in developing vaccines against important diseases (avian influenza, avian and human Coronavirus infections such as IBV, SARS-CoV-2).  This is a new adventure for my group.  We plan to develop nanovaccines as a platform technology against diseases that threaten both the animal and human health.  Notably, my group is currently developing novel nanovaccines against COVID-19 after completing the original safety and immunogenicity studies.