Eric W. Triplett

Eric W. Triplett is a Professor and Chair of the Microbiology & Cell Science Department at the University of Florida. His research focuses on understanding the interplay between microbiota, environmental factors, and autoimmune diseases such as type 1 diabetes and celiac disease through large-scale studies like the TEDDY cohort. He also leads initiatives to integrate bioinformatics into undergraduate education, advocating for open educational resources and community-driven curricula. Key contributions include identifying microbial and genetic risk factors for autoimmunity, investigating antibiotic resistance mechanisms in neonates, and analyzing the impact of environmental exposures on immune development.

Triplett’s work spans clinical, environmental, and agricultural microbiology. He co-leads the TEDDY study, tracking early-life microbial and immune changes predictive of autoimmune outcomes. His lab explores how gut microbiota composition correlates with neurodevelopmental disorders and investigates plant pathogen biology to combat citrus greening disease. He has pioneered methods for metagenomic analysis and microbial community dynamics in diverse ecosystems, including soil systems in the Amazon Biome.

Education reform is a core focus, with efforts to bridge bioinformatics and traditional life sciences through the NIBLSE network. He emphasizes equitable access to STEM opportunities, including studies on online vs. in-person learning impacts. His interdisciplinary approach unites clinical, environmental, and educational microbiology to address global health challenges.