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James Samuel is a Regents Professor and the Wofford Cain Endowed Chair at Texas A&M University's College of Medicine. His research specializes in the molecular pathogenesis of infectious diseases, particularly focusing on Coxiella burnetii, the causative agent of Q fever. With a strong emphasis on understanding host-pathogen interactions, he investigates how this obligate intracellular bacterium adapts to its niche within the host, down-regulating innate immune responses and utilizing specific virulence strategies. Samuel's research aims to elucidate the molecular mechanisms that underpin pathogenicity, with long-term goals of enhancing understanding and developing preventive strategies against infectious diseases. His work has led to significant advancements in the field of microbial pathogenesis, contributing to a refined understanding of the interactions between bacterial pathogens and their hosts. Samuel has designed various laboratory projects that focus on identifying essential virulence loci and testing the molecular mechanisms involved in the survival and pathogenesis of Coxiella burnetii. He has also played a crucial role in vaccine diagnostic development for Q fever, particularly concerning the immune response of hosts to the infection and the effectiveness of protective immunity elicited by different antigenic strategies.
Department: Department of Communication and Journalism. Ph.D. program only currently admitting. GRE is test-optional.