Reeta Rao

Reeta Rao is Professor and Head of the Biology and Biotechnology Department at Worcester Polytechnic Institute's School of Arts and Sciences. An AAAS Fellow (2022) and American Academy of Microbiology Fellow (2018), she investigates fungal pathogenesis, host-microbe interactions, and antimicrobial resistance using genomic and systems biology approaches. Her work has identified novel antifungal compounds including filastatin.

Dr. Rao established innovative educational initiatives including Next-in-BIO career symposia and blended biotechnology master's programs. She mentors graduate researchers in microbial pathogenesis and maintains affiliations with Broad Institute and UMass Medical School.

Research Focus

• Mechanisms of antifungal resistance in Candida species
• Host-microbe interactions in the gastrointestinal microbiome
• Genomic approaches to virulence factor identification
• Probiotic development against fungal pathogens

Honors

• AAAS Fellow (2022)
• American Academy of Microbiology Fellow (2018)
• Waksman Outstanding Teaching Award (2018)

Academic Leadership

As inaugural Associate Dean of Graduate Studies, Dr. Rao reformed graduate requirements and created industry-aligned programs. She currently leads departmental growth in molecular biology and biotechnology education.