Our Team
Eugenia Lo, Ph.D
I am interested and trained in the evolutionary genomics of malaria parasites, host-parasite interactions, and molecular epidemiology of malaria in Africa. My lab employs both field-based and lab-based approaches to address important questions of how malaria infect and spread among humans. Specifically, my work aims to advance our knowledge on (1) transmission dynamics and prevalence of Plasmodium malaria across landscape and environments; (2) invasion mechanisms of Plasmodium pathogens in human hosts and; (3) evolution of host immunity and antimalarial resistance. This information is critical to control and eliminate the disease in malaria-endemic countries.
el855@drexel.edu
Cheikh Cambel Dieng, Ph.D
As a Post-Doctoral Fellow in Microbiology and Immunology at Drexel University, I am actively engaged in cutting-edge research that pushes the boundaries of knowledge in my field. My journey as a researcher has been characterized by a harmonious blend of academic excellence, impactful research contributions, and a genuine commitment to addressing the global health challenges posed by malaria. As I continue to explore the frontiers of microbiology and immunology, I am driven by a profound sense of purpose to make meaningful contributions that will ultimately contribute to the eradication of malaria and improve the lives of individuals in malaria-endemic regions worldwide.
Tassew Shenkutie Ph.D student
Kareen Pestana Ph.D candidate
Beka Abagero Ph.D student
Bernis Yengo, Ph.D
I am a molecular parasitologist interested in understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which parasites cause disease with keen focus on infectious parasites. My research over the years has employed proteomics, rational design of vaccines and diagnostics biomarkers (Insilco), and molecular Biology approaches. This has been driven by my passion about human health and my desire to contribute to global health and sustainable development goal of good health and well being for all.
Regan Schroeder Ph.D student
Nontokozo Mdluli-Berndt Ph.D student
Victoria Ruszin MS student
Over the years, my research has involved pre-clinical research on various vaccine projects for different pathogens in the pharmaceutical industry. As a student in the Microbiology and Immunology program at Drexel University, I am interested in how copy number variation of Plasmodium vivax genes in Duffy-negative individuals affects the parasite’s ability to both invade reticulocytes and evade the host immune response. My current research employs various PCR tests, ELISAs, and more. This is driven by my passion to contribute to malaria eradication and prevention.
Canelle Kipayko
As a Research Assistant and Laboratory Technician in Dr. Eugenia Lo’s Lab at the Drexel University College of Medicine, I am privileged to be involved in pioneering global health research aimed at eradicating malaria and improving health outcomes. These roles have provided me with an opportunity to explore the intricate dynamics of malaria transmission, including how Plasmodium pathogens invade hosts and the evolution of antimalarial resistance, among other aspects. My journey through this lab, which began during my undergraduate studies, has been driven by a deep commitment to enhancing healthcare in Sub-Saharan Africa. Consequently, I am excited to be part of a dedicated team working towards such an impactful mission.