Erich Schwarz

Erich Schwarz is an Assistant Research Professor in the Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics at Cornell University’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS). His research focuses on comparative nematode genomics to address both parasitic disease mechanisms and fundamental biological questions. Key projects include identifying vaccine targets in zoonotic hookworms, studying host-specificity genes in Necator americanus, and analyzing immunoregulatory genes in Nippostrongylus brasiliensis. He holds an Honorary Senior Fellow title at the University of Melbourne’s Faculty of Veterinary Biosciences. Contact: ems394@cornell.edu.

Research interests span parasitic nematode genomics, host-parasite interactions, and evolutionary biology. His work integrates genomic sequencing, transcriptomics, and functional genomics approaches to understand disease mechanisms and parasite adaptation. Recent studies highlight dynamic transcriptional responses to host immunity and the identification of novel vaccine candidates.

Publications emphasize nematode biology, fungal-nematode interactions, and genomic resource development. Notable contributions include improved Caenorhabditis elegans genome assemblies and analyses of entomopathogenic nematode symbioses. Grants and collaborations support his work on zoonotic pathogens and comparative parasitology.

• Key Awards: Honorary Senior Fellow (University of Melbourne)
• Labs/Teams: Collaborates with CALS and international groups on parasitic helminth genomics