James Burke

James Burke serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Molecular Microbiology at the University of Florida's Scripps Research campus in Jupiter, Florida. His laboratory investigates RNA biology during pathogenic viral infections using biochemical, molecular, and advanced microscopy approaches.

Dr. Burke's research focuses on RNA biology in viral pathogenesis, particularly examining the OAS/RNase L pathway during infections by dengue virus, Zika virus, SARS-CoV-2, and influenza A. His work reveals how viral infections manipulate host mRNA decay pathways, induce ribonucleoprotein condensates, and disrupt nuclear-cytoplasmic transport. Key findings include RNase L-mediated formation of specialized RNA granules that sequester viral RNA and regulate antiviral responses.

Analysis of his 15 most recent publications shows a dominant focus on viral-host RNA interactions (80% of articles), with significant contributions to understanding stress granule dynamics, PKR regulation, and mRNA decay mechanisms during infection. His work bridges fundamental RNA biochemistry with translational virology.

Dr. Burke currently leads an active NIH/NIGMS-funded project titled "Understanding the OAS/RNase L pathway during pathogenic viral infections" as Principal Investigator. His lab maintains strong collaborative ties with clinical researchers, evidenced by co-authorship on studies examining stroke outcomes, cardiac care disparities, and cognitive aging.