Adam Lauring, M.D., Ph.D.

Our primary research focus is RNA virus evolution. A major area of investigation seeks to define the importance of mutation rate and mutational tolerance to the behavior of RNA viruses. Here, we have begun to focus on viral polymerases and the forces driving their evolution. We have also developed projects to define the population genetics of poliovirus, influenza virus, and SARS-CoV-2 within and between human hosts. Our approach has been to analyze viruses collected in clinical trials and well-controlled observational studies. This work has defined how new variants arise within hosts and how transmission generally limits their spread. Through this work, we have developed funded collaborations with investigators at the School of Public Health and College of Engineering, which now extend to studies of influenza and SARS-CoV-2 transmission and vaccine effectiveness.