معرفی
Adjunct Associate Professor Mandy Muller of the University of Massachusetts Amherst Department of Microbiology studies how gamma-herpesviruses—particularly Kaposi’s Sarcoma-Associated Herpesvirus (KSHV)—re-shape host RNA metabolism to enable lifelong infection. Her NIH-funded group combines genome-wide sequencing, molecular virology and cell biology to uncover how viral nucleases target host mRNAs and how select antiviral transcripts escape decay.
Education:
- PhD in Virology, Pasteur Institute (2013)
Research Interests:
Muller’s work centers on the interface of viral pathogenesis and RNA biology. She investigates (i) virus-induced mRNA degradation, (ii) host restriction factors that withstand this decay, (iii) epitranscriptomic modifications such as m6A that protect transcripts, and (iv) innate antiviral proteins like Shiftless that block viral gene expression and P-body dissolution. These studies illuminate fundamental cell-biology questions while identifying new targets for antiviral therapy.
Publication Trends:
Since 2019 her team has published >20 papers dissecting KSHV–host RNA interactions, revealing viral endonuclease substrates, RNA escape elements, and antiviral restriction mechanisms. The portfolio spans high-resolution molecular studies to genome-wide screens, consistently highlighting how herpesviruses hijack or evade host RNA regulatory networks.
Grants & Awards:
- NIH MIRA R35 ($1.9 M, 2020-2025)
- Multiple trainee awards including Curt Thorne and David Pollack prizes
- Best talk & poster recognitions at regional meetings
Advising & Mentorship:
Nine PhD students have defended under her mentorship since 2021 (Yadi Bermudez, Jacob Miles, Tarah, Shai, David, Dr. MacVeigh-Fierro, Will Rodriguez, Jake, Tim), together with numerous MS and undergraduate researchers. Her laboratory emphasizes both research excellence and inclusive teaching, earning a CNS Excellence in Diversity and Inclusion group award.
Laboratory & Outreach:
The Muller Lab relocated to the Institute of Microbiology at the University of Lausanne (IMUL) in May 2025, continuing its work on viral RNA biology. Muller also engages in public communication through weekly radio segments (“The Muller Report”) separating virology fact from fiction for general audiences.
