معرفی
Afsar Ali is a Research Associate Professor in the Department of Environmental and Global Health at the University of Florida's College of Public Health and Health Professions. He has been affiliated with the university since 2008 and also contributes to the Emerging Pathogens Institute (EPI). His work focuses on cholera and diarrheal disease research, particularly the environmental spillover mechanisms and mitigation strategies. Ali holds a Ph.D. in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology from the University of Maryland and has extensive international research experience, including at the International Center for Diarrheal Disease Research in Bangladesh.
Education:
- Ph.D. in Molecular Biology/Biotechnology (1998), University of Maryland
- M.S. in Enteric Microbiology (1990), University of Maryland
- M.S. in Microbiology (1985), University of Dhaka
- B.S. in Soil Microbiology (1983), University of Dhaka
Research Interests:
Dr. Ali's research bridges microbiology and epidemiology, with a focus on Vibrio cholerae persistence in aquatic environments, environmental drivers of cholera evolution, and spatial-temporal transmission dynamics. His lab uses advanced molecular techniques to study biofilm formation, pathogen-host interactions, and the role of chitin-induced transformation in toxigenic strains. He also integrates spatial video and machine learning to map high-risk areas in informal settlements.
Grants & Collaborations:
- Co-Investigator for NIH-funded grants analyzing cholera recurrence in Haiti and DRC (2016–present)
- Principal Investigator for Bangladesh cholera epidemiology study (2010–2017)
Labs/Teams:
Works within the Emerging Pathogens Institute and collaborates with global health agencies to address cholera outbreaks in resource-limited settings.
