David J. Topham

David J. Topham, Ph.D. is a tenured Professor of Microbiology and Immunology at the University of Rochester Medical Center's School of Medicine and Dentistry. He joined the faculty in 1999 and was appointed in 2009 as Vice Provost and Executive Director of the Health Science Center for Computational Innovation (HSCCI), a partnership between the University and IBM. Dr. Topham currently serves as the Founding Director of the University of Rochester Translational Immunology and Infectious Disease Institute and previously directed the New York Influenza Center of Excellence (2007-2021) and the Respiratory Pathogens Research Center (2011-2018).

Dr. Topham's research focuses on immune responses to respiratory viruses, particularly influenza and coronaviruses. His laboratory maintains a combined program in basic research using animal models of influenza infection and immunity, as well as a translational research program to study human immune responses to viral infections and vaccination. A key area of investigation is understanding how T cells are regulated in lung tissue and airways, which he believes is critical for generating long-lived protective immunity against diverse influenza viruses and coronavirus variants. His work integrates computational modeling with experimental approaches to study immune system dynamics.

Analysis of Dr. Topham's recent publications (2021-2024) reveals a continued focus on respiratory virus immunology with increasing emphasis on SARS-CoV-2 and cross-reactive immunity. His research spans multiple disciplines including T cell biology, antibody responses, vaccine development, and host-pathogen interactions. The work demonstrates strong translational impact, bridging basic immunological mechanisms with clinical applications in vaccine design and disease management. His laboratory has developed several innovative technologies including array-based detection systems for immune responses.

Scientific Awards:

• Scholar (2001)

Dr. Topham has received significant research funding through his leadership of major centers including the New York Influenza Center of Excellence, one of six national Centers of Excellence in Influenza Research and Surveillance supported by NIH. His collaborative approach has fostered partnerships between UR scientists and corporate partners, as well as support from state and federal agencies. The Topham Lab maintains active collaborations across multiple institutions, reflecting his role as a leader in the respiratory virus research community.

Dr. Topham's laboratory operates within the Program for Advanced Immune Bioimaging and has developed several patented technologies related to influenza immune response measurement. His research has significant implications for pandemic preparedness and vaccine development against emerging respiratory pathogens.