
WHO WE ARE
JENNIFER GULER, PHD
Primary Investigator
During my training, I have gained expertise in a range of molecular, biochemical, and cell biological techniques in the field of parasitology. As a graduate student at Johns Hopkins Medical Institute, I characterized mitochondrial metabolic pathways of Trypanosoma brucei that may lead to new drug targets for the treatment of African sleeping sickness. To expand my knowledge of parasites and learn about their impact in the real world, I then traveled to Africa to investigate malaria transmission by the mosquito. In continuation of my interests in more translational research, I performed my postdoctoral studies at the University of Washington and investigated how the malaria parasite (Plasmodium falciparum) initiates genetic change and survives various evolutionary pressures such as drug exposure. During this time, I also helped setup studies in field stations across India to test our laboratory-based hypotheses on genomic plasticity with parasites isolated directly from patients. Now, at the University of Virginia, I am leveraging my expertise in biochemistry/genetics to further investigate the mechanisms of resistance initiation and metabolic adaptation in P. falciparum.

Meet the team behind the UVA Guler Malaria Lab.

Noah Brown
PhD Candidate
Resistance Initiation

ANUSH ARYAL
PhD Candidate
Metabolic Adaptation

Kwesi Forson
PhD Candidate
Metabolic Adaptation & Resistance Initiation

JULIA ZULAWINSKA
Graduate Student
Resistance Initiation

ISIAH KRATZER
Graduate Student
Metabolic Adaptation & Resistance Initiation
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ALEKSANDER LUNIEWSKI, MD
Research Physician
Resistance Initiation

MICHELLE WARTHAN, MS
Lab Specialist
Metabolic Adaptation & Resistance Initiation

SURYAN ATHREYA
Undergraduate
Resistance Initiation
People:
We value the wide range of experiences and viewpoints that individuals bring to the laboratory. Our goal is to provide equal opportunities for all, regardless of gender, race, nationality, age, or ability. We strive to foster a learning environment that supports individuals at all skill levels and areas of interest, and we actively encourage participation from undergraduate students in our research efforts. We welcome collaboration with other laboratories and engagement with the broader community to enhance our work and broaden our perspectives.
Lab Environment:
We aim to maintain a respectful and supportive space for learning, collaboration, and innovation. Students are encouraged to engage fully and authentically, without fear of judgment or mistreatment. We promote open communication, where all members are given the opportunity to be heard. The lab upholds a safe and professional atmosphere, free from discriminatory behavior and harmful symbols.
Research & Teaching:
While global progress against malaria has been substantial, the benefits have not been experienced equally across all populations. Communities with fewer resources continue to bear a disproportionate burden of disease. As we contribute to the ongoing efforts against malaria, we also acknowledge the broader societal factors that impact public health. Our lab is committed to expanding access to research opportunities and fostering growth among scientists from a wide range of backgrounds and experience levels. Through education and research, we work together toward improving our understanding of disease and contributing to the global effort to reduce its impact.
ALUMNI
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Vazira Ahmedjonova
Consultant at Oliver Wyman within their Private Equity Practice
Caroline Webb
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Charlie Dannis
EMT, applying to Medical School
James Schwartz
Finishing Fourth Year, applying Veterinary Colleges
Mary Lewis Simpson
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Olivia Accad
.
Aida Doucoure
Graduate School
Jane Kim
.
Shiwei Lui, PhD.
Post-doctoral position at Indiana University
Audrey Brown, PhD.
Post-doctoral position in Dr. Petri's Lab, UVA.
Nnenna Ene
Program in Reseach
Adam Huckaby, PhD
Post-doctoral position pending
Jen McDaniels, PhD
Post-doctoral position at University of Maryland
Victoria Kelley
.
Arian Azizi
Finishing his degree at UVA
Sibrina Lingeman
Recieving her Masters Degree in Population Health at University College, London
Maureen Carey, PhD
Accepted a Post-Doctoral Position with Dr. Petri's Lab at UVA Medical center, Assistant Professor in Division of Infectious Disease
Michal Stolarczky
UVA
Mareike Haaren
Peace Corps
Claire Granum
.
Gillean Kelly
Medical School at Baylor
Ana Untaroiu
.
Audrey Francis
.
Shaun Spisak
.
Jennifer Kniss
Peace Corps
Vincent Covelli, DO
Infectious Disease physiscion who specializes in community and hospital acquired infections, in addition to infection with HIV, hepatitis C, tuberculosis, and sesually transmitted infections at St. Mary Medical Center in California
Julia Stellmann
.
Andrew Kubiak
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Will Lewandowski
Medical School
Julius Ha
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Sabrina Carter
.
Anna Long
.
Vani Hariharan
.
Jessica Copper, M.SC
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2017

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