David Gondek

David Gondek is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biology at Ithaca College's School of Humanities and Sciences. His research bridges Microbiology and Immunology, focusing on host-pathogen interactions, particularly of Chlamydia trachomatis, and the role of microbiomes in immune responses.

• Specialty: Microbiology & Immunology
• Office: Center for Natural Sciences, Ithaca, NY
• Collaborations: Puerto Rico Vieques Conservation & Historical Trust

His lab employs molecular genetics, bioinformatics, flow cytometry, and animal models to study type three secretion systems in Chlamydia and microbiome remodeling post-antibiotic treatment. Recent work highlights how probiotics alter bacterial composition in mice recovery phases and how mucosal vaccines induce protective memory T cell responses.

Key projects include:

• Microbiome manipulation's impact on Chlamydia infections
• Comparative analysis of Chlamydia species across host boundaries
• Development of mucosal vaccines targeting dendritic cell subsets
• Investigation of regulatory T cell mechanisms in transplantation and autoimmunity