Rachael Rush

PhD student

Organization:

West Virginia University School of Medicine

Department:

Microbiology, Immunology & Cell Biology

Classification:

Graduate Assistant

My current research focus involves understanding the immunological response to microbial pathogens. My interests evolved from my undergraduate career at the University of Pittsburgh, where I earned my B.S. in microbiology. While there, I worked under Dr. Graham Hatfull studying the unique origins of replication and machinery of extrachromosomal mycobacterial prophages. Currently, I am a student in the Immunology and Microbial Pathogenesis program at WVU. I am completing my doctoral research in Dr. Tara Croston's laboratory at the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Traditionally, methods to identify microbial diversity in our environments has been limited to culture and immunoassay-based approaches. This has led to a selection bias and a significant number of overlooked species. With the development of new molecular based approaches for detection, such as next generation sequencing, it is becoming clear that fungi are making up a considerable portion of our environment. In comparison to bacteria and viruses, very little is known about fungal pathogens and the host response to infection. My project focuses on investigating the immunological responses to acute, subchronic, and chronic exposures of environmentally relevant fungi. Specifically, I hope to better understand the immunological endpoints resulting from these fungal infections, as well as the pathological mechanism these species use. I hope to someday have a career in which I can combine my passion for vaccine/drug development and public health. Outside of the lab, I am a member of the Graduate Student Organization. I enjoy reading, crafting, cooking, and seeing a lot of movies.