David M. Tobin

David M. Tobin is a Professor at Duke University School of Medicine with joint appointments in Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Cell Biology, and Integrative Immunobiology. His research focuses on understanding Tuberculosis pathogenesis through zebrafish models, human genetics, and pharmacological interventions, aiming to identify novel therapeutic targets.

• Ph.D. in 2002 from University of California San Francisco, School of Medicine

Research Interests: Using zebrafish genetics to map host susceptibility genes for TB, studying macrophage biology and granuloma formation, and translating findings to human TB and leprosy through genetic pathway analysis. Collaborations in Vietnam and Guatemala examine disease transmission dynamics.

Publication Trends: Recent work emphasizes single-cell transcriptomics, angiogenesis in granulomas, and cross-species immune pathway conservation. His team develops innovative CRISPR tools for zebrafish and explores host-directed therapies for mycobacterial infections.

Scientific Recognition:

• Fellow, American Academy of Microbiology (2024)
• Fellow, American Association for the Advancement of Science (2019)
• NIH Director's New Innovator Award (2011)

Advising & Funding: Mentors graduate and postdoctoral researchers while directing major NIH grants including the Tri-Institutional Molecular Mycology and Pathogenesis Training Program (2024-2029) and Innate Immune Determinants of Granuloma Formation (2017-2027).