Dr. Vaughn Cooper

Professor

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Biography

Vaughn S. Cooper is a Professor in the Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics at the University of Pittsburgh. His research interests primarily focus on antimicrobial drug discovery and vaccine development, exploring the evolutionary biology of microbes and their interactions with hosts. Cooper's lab employs advanced genomic techniques to investigate the mechanisms of microbial adaptation, drug resistance, and pathogenesis. He leads efforts to understand how bacterial cells evolve in biofilms and their roles in chronic infections. His work includes tracking the evolution of viruses like SARS-CoV-2 and developing innovative methods for high-throughput sequencing. Additionally, he co-founded the Center for Evolutionary Biology and Medicine to foster research at the interface between evolution and health. Vaughn is committed to outreach and mentorship through programs like EvolvingSTEM, which engages high school students in authentic research experiences.

Research Interests

Experience

Professor

2004-01-01 — Present

University of Pittsburgh • Pittsburgh, PA

Teaches and conducts research in the fields of microbiology and molecular genetics, focusing on microbial evolution and drug resistance.

Requirements for University of Pittsburgh

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
TOEFL
Total
Required:90
IELTS
Overall
Required:7
GRE General
Prerequisites
3 semesters of Calculus 1 semester of Linear Algebra Introductory Statistics
Application Checklist
  • Online application
  • Official transcripts
  • 3 letters of recommendation
  • Statement of purpose
  • Resume/CV
  • Application fee
Specialization Notes

The Statistics MS program focuses on mathematical statistics and applied statistics.