Erica Michelle Hernandez

Keywords: Infectious diseases, vaccines, virology, protein engineering

Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is one of many mosquito-borne alphaviruses that cause disease around the world. Most monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) elicited by natural alphavirus infection have been shown to target the E1 and E2 glycoproteins, making them ideal templates for immunogen design. mAbs with the widest breadth of protection, meaning that they protect against multiple alphaviruses, have been mapped to the E2 domain B and E1 fusion loop. I’m currently investigating the potential of these domains as immunogens that can elicit broad- or pan-protective antibody responses. 

I’ve previously worked with Karen on characterization of human monoclonal antibodies that target Herpes Simplex Virus. I’ve also worked with Helen on optimization of a nanoparticle vaccine using a combination of wild-type and resurfaced/engineered immunogens to confer protection against Zika and Dengue Viruses.

Before joining the lab, I’ve worked on plasmid-mediated horizontal gene transfer and studied the prevalence of antibiotic resistance, including extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) and carbapenemase-producing (CPE) bacteria, in both nosocomial and community settings. I have also worked on projects characterizing communication and behavior of Xenopus. 

In my free time, I enjoy dancing, cooking, and painting.