Forschungsthemen
Our research aims to identify viral and host factors that regulate infection, replication, and pathogenesis of pandemic-related RNA and DNA viruses. By combining molecular virology, functional genomics, high-throughput screening technologies, and physiologically relevant infection models, we investigate the mechanisms that govern virus-host interactions and explore host-directed antiviral strategies.
In addition to emerging RNA viruses, we study human polyomaviruses, including Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCV), the causative agent of Merkel cell carcinoma. These viruses establish lifelong infections and can cause severe disease in immunocompromised individuals.
Our work integrates genetic manipulation of viral genomes, large-scale functional screening approaches, and primary cell and ex vivo infection systems, allowing us to investigate viral infection and host responses in biologically relevant contexts.