Dr. Susan Weiss

Biography

Susan Weiss, Ph.D., is a Professor and Vice Chair of the Department of Microbiology at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. She has a notable track record in studying murine and human coronavirus pathogenesis, contributing significantly to understanding diseases caused by MERS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2. Dr. Weiss employs advanced models, including murine models of acute viral encephalitis and chronic demyelinating diseases, to research the intricate interactions between viruses and host immune responses. She investigates critical aspects such as viral manipulation of innate immune pathways and has pioneered studies on the activation and antagonism of the OAS-RNase L pathway in response to viral infections. Her lab's efforts are focused on deciphering the pathogenesis mechanisms of respiratory viruses and identifying potential therapeutic targets to combat viral infections. Weiss is also involved in educating the next generation of scientists, mentoring postdoctoral researchers and graduate students in her lab, and actively participating in the academic community through collaborative projects and publications.

Research Interests