The pathogens studied encompass RNA, DNA and retro-viruses, including the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus that causes COVID-19 (Davidson, Matthews and Shytaj). We also work on the closely related MERS-CoV virus that causes Middle East Respiratory Syndrome and is also highly lethal (Davidson and Matthews). And we have also worked on severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) in the past (Davidson). 

In addition to our work on human coronaviruses, we work on dengue virus which is an arthropod-borne flavivirus that causes dengue fever (Davidson). Other blood-borne pathogens studied include the retroviruses HIV and HTLV to understand the mechanisms of their chronic lifelong persistence in cellular and anatomical sanctuaries and to devise therapeutic strategies to eliminate them (Shytaj). 

Work is also going on to understand how other respiratory viruses such as respiratory syncytial virus and adenoviruses interfere with cellular systems in the nucleus of the infected cell. This work has also been used to develop integrated methods to study the transcriptome and proteome of living cells and the viruses that infect them (Matthews). Similarly, the integration of multiple “omics“ techniques, including transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics is being employed to identify markers of retroviral latency that allow HIV and HTVL to elude currently available treatments and the immune system (Shytaj) and how dengue viruses and coronaviruses interact with the host cell (Davidson). ‘Omics approaches are also being used to identify biomarkers to predict dengue disease severity (Davidson).

The molecular and cellular biology of these viruses are being investigated and, in particular, the way that they interact with the host immune response. Research spans genetic, molecular and cellular systems and includes state-of-the-art high throughput quantitative proteomics and deep sequencing approaches to analyse the host response to viral infection in a holistic fashion. 

This information is being used to devise new ways to control infection. This includes the development of vaccines that prevent virus infection in the first place, antiviral drugs that prevent replication of the virus after infection has taken place, and therapies that aim to contain the consequences of virus infection, for example, autoimmune reactions or cancer cells that proliferate uncontrollably. 

In addition, taking a multidisciplinary approach, the stability of respiratory viruses in aerosols is being investigated (Davidson) in collaboration with aerosol chemists in order to develop better ways to control the aerosol transmission of viruses.

Virology is well funded and has excellent new research facilities. We aim to provide a challenging and comprehensive training to both undergraduate and graduate students and a stimulating atmosphere in which to conduct first-class, internationally competitive research that will have an impact upon both human and animal health.