Sylvia van den Hurk

Dr. Sylvia van den Hurk is a Professor in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology at the University of Saskatchewan's College of Medicine. She serves as Program Manager of the Viral Pathogenesis & Vaccine Development program at VIDO-InterVac, where she holds additional roles on the Science Management Team, RAPID team, and Neonatal Vaccines group. She is also a member of the University of Saskatchewan College of Graduate Studies and Research.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Veterinary Microbiology, University of Saskatchewan
• M.Sc. and B.Sc. in Plant Pathology, Genetics and Molecular Biology, University of Wageningen, Netherlands

Research Focus: Dr. van den Hurk's work centers on viral pathogenesis and innovative vaccine strategies. She investigates molecular mechanisms of bovine herpesvirus-1 (BHV-1), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and hepatitis C virus (HCV), with emphasis on DNA vaccine optimization, tegument protein functions, and dendritic cell-based immunization. Her current projects include developing novel RSV and HCV vaccines using chimeric glycoproteins and combination adjuvants to enhance protective immunity.

Publication Trends: Her recent articles (2015-2019) demonstrate strong focus on viral pathogenesis mechanisms (particularly BHV-1 tegument proteins), vaccine formulation advancements against respiratory viruses (RSV, parainfluenza), and maternal/neonatal immunization strategies. Research employs animal models (lambs, calves, mice) and explores immunological signaling pathways, adjuvant innovations, and cross-protective immunity.

Mentorship: Has supervised over 30 graduate students and post-doctoral fellows.