William Geisler

William Geisler is a Professor and Associate Dean for Physician Scientist Development at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), School of Medicine. He holds joint appointments in the Department of Medicine (Infectious Diseases) and the School of Public Health (Epidemiology). His roles include Director of the UAB STD Program, Co-Director of the Medical Scientist Training Program, and leadership in physician-scientist development initiatives. Dr. Geisler earned his MD from the University of Tennessee, an MPH in Epidemiology from the University of Washington, and completed residency and fellowship training at the University of Michigan and University of Washington. His research focuses on Chlamydia trachomatis and Mycoplasma genitalium infections, including immune response mechanisms, vaccine development, and antimicrobial resistance. He has authored over 120 peer-reviewed articles and serves on numerous professional committees, including contributions to CDC/WHO guidelines for sexually transmitted infections.

Education:

• B.S. (Magna Cum Laude, Phi Beta Kappa), University of Tennessee, Knoxville
• M.D., University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis
• M.P.H. (Epidemiology), University of Washington, Seattle

Research Interests:

His work explores host immune responses to Chlamydia, correlates of protective immunity, and development of chlamydia vaccines. He also investigates Mycoplasma genitalium epidemiology, antibiotic resistance patterns, and diagnostic challenges. Key themes include translational research bridging clinical practice and basic science, with emphasis on sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and public health interventions.

Grants & Funding:

Recipient of NIH grants (e.g., R01 on epigenetic determinants of chlamydia reinfection, K24 midcareer mentoring award) and industry collaborations (e.g., diagnostic test evaluations for STIs). Active in clinical trials for novel treatments and diagnostics.

Awards:

• Fellow, Infectious Diseases Society of America (2008)
• Member, Southern Society for Clinical Investigation (2012)

Labs/Teams:

Leads the UAB STD Program and collaborates with the Center for AIDS Research, Center for Clinical and Translational Science, and Global Center for Craniofacial, Oral, and Dental Disorders (GC-CODED). Involved in multidisciplinary teams addressing STI epidemiology, vaccine research, and clinical diagnostics.