Karl Klose

Karl Klose is a Professor and the Robert J. Kleberg, Jr. and Helen C. Kleberg Endowed Professor at The University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA), where he also serves as Director of the South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases (STCEID). He is affiliated with the Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology within the College of Sciences. His research is centered on bacterial pathogenesis, with a focus on Vibrio cholerae and Francisella tularensis, pathogens responsible for cholera and tularemia, respectively.

Dr. Klose's research interests include understanding how bacteria sense host environments, regulate virulence gene expression, persist in aquatic ecosystems, and cause disease. His lab employs molecular genetics, genomics, and biochemical approaches to identify genetic factors involved in pathogenesis and to develop live attenuated vaccines. A major focus is on combating biodefense threats, as F. tularensis is classified as a CDC Category A agent.

The recent publications from Dr. Klose’s lab reflect a strong trend in molecular microbiology, focusing on gene regulation, host-pathogen interactions, vaccine development, and environmental persistence. Work spans from fundamental mechanisms like quorum sensing and two-component signaling to applied research in vaccine candidates and antimicrobial resistance.

• Robert J. Kleberg, Jr. and Helen C. Kleberg College of Sciences Endowed Professorship

Dr. Klose actively mentors a diverse group of students, including doctoral, master’s, and undergraduate researchers. His lab receives research funding likely from federal agencies such as NIH or DoD, given the biodefense relevance of his work, though specific grants are not listed. He plays a central leadership role in STCEID, fostering collaborative research in emerging infectious diseases.

He leads the Klose Lab, which operates within the state-of-the-art facilities of the South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, providing an excellent environment for cutting-edge research and student training in microbiology and immunology.