Koushik Roy

Koushik Roy is an Assistant Professor of Microbiology & Immunology at the University of Utah School of Medicine, specializing in B cell fate decisions, immunological memory, and vaccine development. His research bridges molecular biology, systems immunology, and chemical biology to address fundamental and translational challenges in infectious diseases and cancer.

• Education:
  • M.S., Jadavpur University
  • Ph.D., CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology
  • Postdoctoral Research, University of California, Los Angeles

Research Focus:
Dr. Roy's lab investigates the molecular mechanisms governing B cell differentiation into plasma cells and memory B cells, particularly how pathogens disrupt these processes. His work combines systems biology (omics, microscopy, mathematical modeling) and chemical biology (peptide design) to develop therapeutic strategies for B cell lymphomas and vaccines against infectious diseases.

Key Projects:
1. NFkB signaling in B cell fate: Deciphering how NFkB dynamics regulate proliferation-differentiation transitions.
2. Quantitative B cell responses: Modeling immune dysregulation in infectious diseases.
3. Peptide-based immunomodulators: Engineering synthetic peptides for vaccine enhancement and cancer therapy.

Scientific Recognition:

• F1000 Faculty Recommended - New Finding (2019)
• F1000 Faculty Recommended - Interesting Hypothesis (2013, 2016)

Laboratory Philosophy:
Emphasizes rational thinking, open feedback, self-criticism, diversity, and mental health awareness in scientific mentorship.