Lab Members

I received my PhD in Organic Chemistry from the University of New Orleans working on the synthesis of novel histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors before making a leap of faith to jump into the world of herpesviruses. My postdoctoral work was on understanding the mechanisms contributing to ocular pathogenesis during HSV-1 infections following the initial infection and during reactivation of virus in vivo using both mouse and rabbit models of infection. I subsequently leveraged my chemistry background into understanding how latent HSV-1 genomes were epigenetically maintained in infected cells and while still a postdoc, I became one of the early pioneers defining the chromatin control of reactivating HSV-1 genomes in vivo, a project for which I was awarded a competitive NIH fellowship. I was recruited to the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 2019 as an Associate Professor, where my lab continues to grow the field of epigenetic regulation and three-dimensional chromatin architecture of latent HSV-1 genomes to determine the mechanisms by which these elements control latency establishment, maintenance, and reactivation using a mixture of molecular, genetic, and next-generation approaches. The goal of my lab is to use these mechanisms to design new therapeutic targets that deplete latent reservoirs of HSV-1 from sensory neurons. I love to travel and be outdoors.  In my spare time I enjoy working in my vegetable gardens, cooking and taking care of my ever-growing family of rescue pets LeeRoy, Milo, Jazzy and Capri (and of course my partner Rob!).

My current research focuses on understanding how HSV-1 interacts with the host at the chromatin level, particularly focusing on transcription factors such as CTCF, cohesin, and ATRX to answer how these factors regulate viral gene expression during HSV-1 lytic infection, latency, and reactivation. This work not only provides fundamental insight into virus-host dynamics but also offers potential pathways for developing novel antiviral strategies. I am also exploring alternative antivirals that can be used to limit herpes virus ocular infection. Outside of the lab, I enjoy playing with my kids, which relaxes me and gives me strength. I also like playing chess and badminton as ways to unwind and express myself. Mentorship is an important part of my journey, and I find great fulfilment in guiding students and fostering an environment that encourages curiosity, collaboration, and discovery.

I am Tohono O’odham and Navajo, born and raised in Tucson, Arizona. I earned my B.S. in Microbiology from the University of Arizona, and I am currently a Ph.D. candidate in the Microbiology Doctoral Training Program at UW-Madison. My dissertation research focuses on uncovering how CTCF-mediated chromatin loops regulate HSV-1 latency and reactivation. Outside the lab, you’ll likely find me doing anything creative. For the past year I have been obsessed with knitting sweaters and making bowls and plates in the ceramics studio. 

My project focuses on how an enhancer element within the viral genome increases expression of transport genes at early times post viral reactivation using translational models of infection. Further, I’m working to develop an in vitro model of this transport using microfluidic chambers and stem-cell derived neuronal cells that support latent-like viral infections. Outside of lab, I love to watch horror movies and play TTRPGs with friends.

I am a Ph.D. candidate in Microbiology with over eight years of research experience in molecular biology. My doctoral research focuses on understanding how the spatial organization of HSV-1 genome governs the transition from latency to reactivation.  I’ve identified novel regulatory DNA elements within the HSV-1 genome and am currently characterizing their functions using various bioassays and recombinant virus engineering. Outside the lab, I enjoy cooking Chinese cuisine and gardening—although I’m not sure if I’m good at them. My lifelong goal is to travel to as many countries as possible and experience the nature and architecture around the world.

I am a senior in the College of Letters and Sciences with a major in Biology. I intend to enroll in an Optometry program this coming fall, seeking a professional degree in Optometry. My main hobbies outside of the classroom largely consist of watching and participating in athletics or enjoying a good movie.

My name is Ellie Davenport and I am a sophomore. My goal for the future is to work with MSF as either an ophthalmologist or OB/GYN. Outside of school, I enjoy playing tennis, running, and cooking.

I am a second-year undergraduate student at the University of Wisconsin-Madison majoring in Neurobiology. I have a special interest in neuroscience and ophthalmology and hope to pursue a career in the medical field in the future. In my free time I enjoy hiking, reading, and cooking.