Our Ambassador

Virology, Immunology and structural biology (Cryo-EM)

As a native of Nigeria's Igbo Tribe, I earned my bachelor's degree in Cell Biology and Genetics, specializing in molecular biology, from the University of Lagos, Nigeria. I am currently pursuing a Ph.D. at the University of California, San Diego, working in Erica Ollmann Saphire's Lab at the La Jolla Institute for Immunology. My research involves the fields of immunology, virology, and structural biology to develop long-lasting neutralizing antibodies that are cross-reactive against multiple lineages of Lassa virus. My work focuses on characterizing the human B cell response to LASV vaccination using novel, conformation-specific antigens, which could lead to the establishment of effective Lassa virus vaccines. I am dedicated to advancing our knowledge of viral pathogens and developing effective therapeutics and vaccines to combat them. One of my notable achievements is the use of Cryo-EM to solve the structure of Ebola virus bound to a human antibody. This discovery delineated the mechanism by which a glycan cap-based antibody neutralizes EBOV by disrupting proteolytic cleavage of the glycan shield and mucin domain, thereby inhibiting viral attachment to the NPC1 host receptor. Ultimately, I aim to contribute to the global fight against viral pandemics and improve the health outcomes of vulnerable populations worldwide.

Nigeria

LinkedIn - Onyeka S. Chukwudozie