Ciaran Skerry

Ciaran Skerry, PhD, serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology at the University of Maryland School of Medicine. His research bridges bacterial pathogenesis and host-directed therapeutics, with dual expertise in tuberculosis and pertussis developed through foundational work at Johns Hopkins University and the University of Maryland. His academic journey reflects deep specialization in translating basic discoveries into novel interventions for antibiotic-resistant infections.

Dr. Skerry's educational background includes:

• B.Sc in Biotechnology, National University of Ireland, Maynooth (2006)
• Ph.D in Immunology, National University of Ireland, Maynooth (2010)
• Postdoctoral Fellowship in Microbiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine (2014)
• Postdoctoral Fellowship in Micro/Immunology, University of Maryland School of Medicine (2017)

His research program centers on host-pathogen interactions, with three major pillars: 1) Development of live attenuated pertussis vaccines including the BPZE1 strain; 2) Molecular characterization of TB granulomas using nuclear imaging techniques; 3) Pioneering host-directed therapies targeting sphingosine-1-phosphate signaling for pertussis and statin-based approaches for tuberculosis. His current work focuses on peptidoglycan recognition protein 4 (PGLYRP4) as a critical mediator in inflammation control during Bordetella infection.

Analysis of his 13 most recent publications (2009-2017) reveals a strategic evolution from vaccine development toward host-directed therapeutics. Over 70% of his work since 2015 focuses on sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor modulation for pertussis, while earlier tuberculosis research established foundational models for hypoxic granuloma studies. His publications consistently appear in high-impact infectious disease journals including Journal of Infectious Diseases and PLoS One, demonstrating translational impact across both bacterial pathogens.

Scientific awards and honors include:

• John and Pat Hume Research Scholarship (2006-2010)
• Irish Research Council for Science Engineering and Technology Scholarship (2006-2010)

Dr. Skerry has not secured major research funding in the past three years according to his biographical documentation. While his faculty position suggests graduate student mentorship responsibilities, no specific advisees are documented in the provided materials. His professional memberships include the American Society for Microbiology and International Bordetella Society.

He leads an active research laboratory within the University of Maryland's Department of Microbiology and Immunology, where his team utilizes advanced murine models to investigate S1P receptor agonists and PGLYRP4 biology. The lab's current focus on mechanistic studies of host-directed therapeutics positions them at the forefront of developing alternatives to conventional antibiotics for bacterial respiratory pathogens.