The Jagannath laboratory has over three decades of experience analyzing the immunological mechanisms underlying vaccines and adjuvants for tuberculosis (TB) and, more recently, HIV infection. We use advanced genetics and immunological engineering to develop next-generation bacterial, subunit, replication-deficient viral, and mRNA vaccines designed to protect against TB, HIV, and their coinfections. To understand how more effective vaccines and adjuvants can be developed, we use cutting-edge techniques such as RNAseq, single-cell RNAseq, single-cell proteomics (MILO), spatial transcriptomics, single-cell metabolomics (Isoplexis) combined with functional assays. 

A major focus of the Jagannath laboratory is strengthening the immune system of vulnerable populations, including infants and individuals with immunodeficiency, through targeted vaccination strategies. In collaboration with pulmonary physicians at Houston Methodist, we are also investigating ways to analyze and strengthen alveolar macrophage-based immune defenses in the human lung to prevent infections.