Meet Our Researchers: Rob Striker

Name: Rob Striker

Hometown: Cincinnati, OH

Zodiac Sign: Scorpio

Research Overview:  

The Striker lab is currently working on two projects:

One third of humanity has been exposed to the brain pathogen Toxoplasma, but whether or not this alters brain function is controversial. Our data suggests only some Toxoplasma exposed patients have actual brain cysts which could be determined by novel techniques on spinal fluid and if present could alter seizure threshold and mental health.

Chronic viral illness leads to multiple immunological imbalances. The most extensively studied is a preponderance of CD8 over CD4 cells in HIV, but to a lesser extent, this also happens with Hepatitis B, cytomegalovirus, and possibly human papillomavirus. An unbalanced immune system responds less well to vaccines.

While much of the world’s HIV research community is focused on an HIV cure, knowing that the cure is durable will be challenging. Rob is focused on how to more effectively monitor and promote immunologic recovery, and why does it not reliably occur.

What inspired you to select your field of study? 

 I like that infectious disease needs to “balance” helping the infected but also the population as a whole

What is one piece of advice you would give to students?

Never stop learning.

When you’re not in the lab, how do you spend your time?

Well I’m trying to learn pickleball.

If you didn’t become a scientist, what career would you have pursued?

Well I my first plan was to be a “smoke jumper” and put out forest fires.

What is the best meal you’ve ever had?

Red Iguana Salt Lake City…they have ~ 9 different flavors of mole sauce

You have to sing karaoke, what song do you pick?

Brother Blood by the Neville Brothers

Have you ever completed anything on your “bucket list”? If so, what was it?

Little Miami Triathlon.  Only Tri I know where you don’t have to swim…just canoe.

What is the last TV show that you binge-watched?

Andor