Ralph Pantophlet

Ralph Pantophlet is Professor in the Faculty of Health Sciences at Simon Fraser University, Associate Faculty in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, and Scientific Director of SFU's Containment Level 3 (CL3) Laboratory. His research investigates antibody responses to viral pathogens including HIV, influenza, HCMV, and coronaviruses to inform vaccine design strategies.

Research focuses on antibody-epitope interactions and immunogen engineering to elicit neutralizing antibodies against conserved viral sites. Current projects examine SARS-CoV-2 protease inhibition and age-related immune responses to COVID-19 vaccination alongside core HIV vaccine work.

Publications demonstrate progression from foundational HIV gp120 antigen engineering to contemporary work on glycan-mimetic vaccines and COVID-19 immune responses. Recent articles reflect expanded focus on coronavirus immunology and antiviral drug discovery while maintaining HIV vaccine development.

Leads the Laboratory of Infectious Diseases Immunology developing novel immunogens through molecular biology, virology, and immunochemistry approaches. Teaches advanced immunology laboratory techniques, infectious disease seminars, and courses on immunological diseases.