Laura Knoll

Laura Knoll is a Professor in the Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, School of Medicine and Public Health. Her research focuses on the molecular mechanisms of protozoan parasite pathogenesis, particularly Toxoplasma gondii, Cryptosporidium parvum, and Entamoeba histolytica. She leads a dynamic research laboratory that employs cutting-edge technologies including next-generation sequencing, mass spectrometry, multi-omics, and organoid models.

• B.A. in Chemistry and Biology, Saint Olaf College (1989)
• Ph.D., Washington University School of Medicine (1994)
• Postdoctoral Research, Stanford University

Dr. Knoll's research spans several key areas: host-pathogen interactions, chronic infection mechanisms, microbial metabolism, and the role of host immune genes such as IFN-γ and ZBP1 in infection outcomes. Her lab has pioneered the use of organoids to study parasite development and has developed novel animal models for Entamoeba histolytica infection. Her work integrates molecular, biochemical, and immunological approaches to dissect how parasite and host genes influence infection dynamics.

The recent publications from her lab reflect a strong trend in understanding metabolic manipulation by parasites, host lipid signaling, and the development of advanced in vitro and in vivo models. Her work increasingly leverages multi-omics to uncover regulatory networks in both host and pathogen during acute and chronic stages of infection.

Dr. Knoll has received numerous scientific awards recognizing her contributions to parasitology and infectious disease research:

• 2024: UW-Madison Kellett Mid-Career Award
• 2022: William Trager Award for Basic Parasitology (ACMCIP)
• 2012: WARF Romnes Faculty Fellow
• 2009: Hartwell Foundation Biomedical Research Award
• 2008: American Heart Association Established Investigator Award
• 2007: American Cancer Society Research Scholar Award
• 2003: Shaw Scientist Award
• 2000: Burroughs Wellcome Career Award

She actively mentors graduate students through UW-Madison’s Microbiology, Cellular & Molecular Pathology, and Cellular & Molecular Biology programs. Her lab welcomes postdoctoral scholars and undergraduates, fostering a collaborative and inclusive research environment. Dr. Knoll’s work continues to advance the understanding of eukaryotic parasite biology and host defense mechanisms, with implications for therapeutics and vaccine development.

Her laboratory is based in the Microbial Sciences Building, where she leads a team investigating the complex life cycles and pathogenic strategies of apicomplexan and amoebic parasites.