Dr. Susan C. Baker's lab at Loyola University Chicago focuses on understanding how coronaviruses, specifically SARS-CoV-2, evade the immune system. The research investigates the role of viral proteins, called interferon antagonists, in delaying the immune response, which helps the virus replicate without being detected by the host’s defenses. The team's ultimate goal is to pave the way for new antiviral therapies and vaccines against COVID-19 and other emerging coronaviruses.

Dr. Liang Qiao's lab at Loyola University Chicago focuses on developing innovative vaccines to combat viral infections, particularly coronaviruses and flaviviruses like Zika and dengue. The research aims to create safer vaccines that generate strong T cell responses without the risk of severe side effects associated with traditional antibody-based vaccines. The lab employs advanced techniques to enhance vaccine efficacy and develop mucosal delivery methods for protective immune responses.