Vinayaka R. Prasad

Vinayaka R. Prasad, Ph.D. serves as a faculty member in the Department of Microbiology & Immunology at Albert Einstein College of Medicine. His research focuses on HIV molecular virology, particularly reverse transcriptase mechanisms and viral pathogenesis. He maintains an active research program with current grants extending through 2026.

Dr. Prasad's research interests center on HIV-1 molecular mechanisms, with particular expertise in reverse transcriptase function, viral replication dynamics, and host-pathogen interactions. His work spans molecular virology, immunology, and pathogenesis, with significant contributions to understanding HIV subtype C variants and neuroinflammation. Recent projects explore CCL2-CCR2b signaling in HIV fitness and developing innovative models for studying viral neuroinvasion.

Analysis of his recent publication trends reveals a strong focus on HIV molecular mechanisms, particularly viral replication systems and neurovirology. His 2024-2025 publications demonstrate continued innovation in virological methods, including reporter virus systems and blood-brain barrier models, while maintaining his longstanding expertise in reverse transcriptase and viral pathogenesis.

Dr. Prasad has secured substantial research funding, currently serving as Principal Investigator on the active grant CCL2-CCR2b signaling in HIV-1 fitness and disease; Role of host genetic polymorphisms (National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, 2020-2025). He also serves as Co-PI on the Einstein-Rockefeller-CUNY Center for AIDS Research (2017-2026), demonstrating significant leadership in HIV research consortia. His grant portfolio includes 37 projects with 36 completed and 1 currently active, reflecting sustained research productivity since the 1980s.

His laboratory focuses on HIV molecular virology, particularly developing innovative models for studying viral replication and neuroinflammation. Current research includes macrophage-tropic HIV variants, blood-brain barrier interactions, and the impact of substances like methamphetamine on viral pathogenesis. The lab maintains strong collaborations within the Einstein-Rockefeller-CUNY AIDS research consortium.