Marta Gaglia

Marta Gaglia is an Associate Professor in the Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, School of Medicine and Public Health, and a member of the Institute for Molecular Virology and the Carbone Cancer Center. She leads an active research laboratory focused on virus-host interactions, particularly in influenza A virus and Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV). Her lab relocated from Tufts University to UW–Madison in fall 2022, where she continues to mentor graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, and undergraduates.

Her research centers on how viruses manipulate host innate immune responses, such as the cGAS/STING and interferon pathways, and how viral proteins like PA-X and ORF42 induce host shutoff and immune evasion. By studying both RNA and DNA viruses, her lab identifies conserved and unique mechanisms of viral subversion.

The recent publications from her lab demonstrate a strong focus on molecular mechanisms of viral gene regulation, RNA degradation, and immune modulation. Her work combines biochemical, transcriptomic, and virological approaches to link molecular events to disease outcomes.

Her scientific achievements have been recognized with awards such as the Ann Palmenberg Junior Faculty Award (2019).

Marta Gaglia mentors a diverse team of trainees and is a trainer in the Microbiology Doctoral Training Program (MDTP) and the Cell and Molecular Biology (CMB) program. Her lab has secured competitive grants, including an R01, supporting ongoing research. She fosters a collaborative and supportive lab culture, emphasizing mentorship and scientific excellence.

The Gaglia Lab is actively involved in scientific outreach and community engagement, including participation in events during the pandemic and professional conferences. They also maintain a strong lab identity through team-building activities and celebrations of scientific milestones.