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  5. Viral Entry and Vaccines
Hep C Green From Heidi Drummer
Felicia Schlotthauer Christine Langer Andy Poumbourios
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Viral Entry and Vaccines

We conduct studies into 3 of the world’s most destructive human pathogens: SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19 virus), HIV and hepatitis C virus.

About

Focusing on the COVID-19 virus (SARS-CoV-2), hepatitis C, and other significant viruses, we study how viruses enter cells and how the immune system can block infection. Using structural biology, immunology, and vaccine design, we develop strategies to prevent viral infection. This includes creating next-generation vaccines and understanding protective immune responses.

Our research focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms of viral entry and the immune responses that can prevent infection. To inform the rational design of vaccines, we use a multidisciplinary approach combining:

  • structural biology
  • virology
  • protein engineering
  • systems immunology.

A major focus of our work is hepatitis C virus (HCV), one of the most genetically diverse viruses, and SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19. Both pathogens pose significant challenges for vaccine development due to their ability to evade immune recognition.

By investigating how antibodies and T cells respond to infection or vaccination, we aim to define the key features of protective immunity. This knowledge guides the development of next-generation vaccines capable of inducing broad and durable protection.

Our vaccine candidates are tested in preclinical models to evaluate safety and immunogenicity. The goal is to progress to human clinical trials for real-world impact against these and other emerging viral threats. 

Heidi Drummer

Listen now

Hear from Professor Heidi Drummer, co-head of our group, on our How Science Matters podcast. 

Group contacts

Main contact

Professor Heidi  Drummer

Professor Heidi Drummer

Scientific Director for Research Translation; Scientific Director, Burnet Diagnostics Initiative; Principal Investigator, Burnet Vaccine Initiative; Co-Head, Viral Entry and Vaccines Group
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Student supervisor contacts

Professor Heidi  Drummer

Professor Heidi Drummer

Scientific Director for Research Translation; Scientific Director, Burnet Diagnostics Initiative; Principal Investigator, Burnet Vaccine Initiative; Co-Head, Viral Entry and Vaccines Group
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Dr Gabriela Khoury

Dr Gabriela Khoury

Theme Leader, Antiviral Immunity
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Group members

Dr Andy Poumbourios

Dr Andy Poumbourios

Co-Head, Viral Entry and Vaccines Group
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Christine Langer

Christine Langer

Senior Research Assistant
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Dr Felicia Schlotthauer

Dr Felicia Schlotthauer

Commercial Project Manager, Commercialisation and Research Translation
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Dr Gabriela Khoury

Dr Gabriela Khoury

Theme Leader, Antiviral Immunity
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Professor Heidi  Drummer

Professor Heidi Drummer

Scientific Director for Research Translation; Scientific Director, Burnet Diagnostics Initiative; Principal Investigator, Burnet Vaccine Initiative; Co-Head, Viral Entry and Vaccines Group
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Irene Boo

Irene Boo

Research Assistant, Drummer/Poumbourios Laboratory
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Joey McGregor

Joey McGregor

PhD Student
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Dr Rob J Center

Dr Rob J Center

Senior Research Officer
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Tasnim Zakir

Tasnim Zakir

Research Assistant
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Dr Dilini Rathnayake

Dr Dilini Rathnayake

Research Officer
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Dr Natasha  Pereira

Dr Natasha Pereira

Quality Assurance Specialist
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