Peter Melby

Dr. Peter Melby is a Professor of Internal Medicine at the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB), specializing in the immunopathogenesis of parasitic diseases, particularly leishmaniasis. He directs the UTMB Center for Tropical Diseases and the Global Infectious Diseases Network, leading over 70 faculty members in research, education, and service across Latin America. His clinical practice focuses on infectious diseases, complemented by research into malnutrition's impact on immune responses and tropical disease diagnostics.

Education:

• MD from University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus (1983)
• Residency in Internal Medicine at University of Missouri (1986)
• Fellowships in Infectious Diseases at NIH (1989) and UT Health San Antonio

Research Focus: Dr. Melby's work integrates clinical, translational, and field-based research. He investigates mechanisms linking malnutrition to impaired host defense, vaccine development, and novel diagnostics. His lab studies animal models and human populations in East Africa and Colombia, emphasizing neglected tropical diseases.

Program Leadership: As Director of UTMB's Division of Infectious Diseases, he fosters global health initiatives and interdisciplinary collaboration. The Center for Tropical Diseases he leads addresses tropical disease challenges through innovation in diagnostics, therapeutics, and education.

Labs/Teams: His laboratory focuses on immunopathogenesis studies, diagnostic tool development, and field trials in resource-limited settings. Collaborations span UTMB and partner institutions in Latin America and Africa.