Dr. Manuel Fierro Calisto is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Genetics and Biochemistry at Clemson University, affiliated with the Eukaryotic Pathogens Innovation Center. His research focuses on understanding malaria parasite biology to identify novel antimalarial interventions. He holds a B.S. (2014) and Ph.D. (2020) in Cell Biology from the University of Georgia, followed by postdoctoral training at Iowa State University studying Plasmodium protein export mechanisms. His lab employs advanced molecular tools like proximity labeling and mass spectrometry to characterize host-pathogen interactions during blood-stage infections. Research emphasizes the Plasmodium Translocon of Exported proteins (PTEX) and the EXP2 nutrient pore, exploring their roles in parasite survival and host cell remodeling. Current projects include identifying the exportome of malaria parasites and elucidating EXP2 insertion mechanisms into the parasitophorous vacuole membrane. The lab's work bridges molecular parasitology with translational research for vaccine and drug development. Dr. Fierro's academic journey includes key contributions to understanding merozoite invasion mechanisms, proteolytic cascades during egress, and essential chaperone functions in Plasmodium life cycles. His lab, known as The Fierro Team, collaborates widely and is committed to advancing global health through parasite biology research.







