معرفی
Thomas Kozel is a Professor in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology at the University of Nevada, Reno. His research focuses on translational studies to improve diagnostics for fungal infections, particularly through the development of lateral flow immunoassays (LFA) for rapid, low-cost detection of pathogens like Cryptococcus neoformans and Bacillus anthracis. The WHO has endorsed his diagnostic test for Cryptococcus neoformans meningitis in newly diagnosed AIDS patients, highlighting its global health impact.
Dr. Kozel employs LFA technology—similar to home pregnancy and COVID-19 antigen tests—to address diagnostic challenges in immunosuppressed populations, including transplant recipients and cancer patients. His work emphasizes accessibility in resource-limited settings by enabling minimal-training personnel to perform accurate testing.
Research trends from his recent publications include fungal antigen characterization, monoclonal antibody engineering, and studies on immune evasion mechanisms. His team's innovations span both clinical diagnostics and biodefense applications.
Contact: tkozel@med.unr.edu
