Research

From idea to publication, our research and innovation powerhouse conducts large-scale population-based studies and disseminates knowledge on a global scale.

Research Overview

Our epidemiological, clinical and laboratory research is managed by experts with access to Louisville’s demographic makeup that is a true epidemiological microcosm of the United States. We conduct high quality, independent research that provides innovative healthcare advancements for the local community and beyond.

Our Research Support is the only self-sufficient group at the University of Louisville with the capacity to conduct independent, large-scale population-based studies. Its revolutionary approach provides interdisciplinary results and inter-professional learning for research endeavors across the University. At the University of Louisville Division of Infectious Diseases, we structure our research into three main areas: Epidemiological Studies, Clinical Studies and Laboratory Studies.

Epidemiological Studies

Considered a cornerstone methodology of public health research, our epidemiological studies benefit from our holistic research capabilities. We can conduct and publish research effectively on a large scale.

  • Burden of COVID-19 in Kentuckiana: Define the incidence, epidemiology and clinical outcomes of patients with COVID-19 in the Louisville, Kentucky and southern Indiana.
  • Post COVID-19 Research Clinic: This clinic evaluates the short-and long-term health consequences of COVID-19 for patients previously diagnosed with the infection.
  • Meningococcal Carriage Study: This study aims to evaluate presence of meningococcal bacteria in college students which will help define the need for preventive vaccination.

Clinical Studies

Led by our Principal Investigator Forest Arnold, clinical studies are approached through observation or trial. Our clinical studies require the combined efforts of community-based interventions and quality care from our team of investigators.

  • Janssen Evergreen RSV Vaccine Study: A medical research study to evaluate the effectiveness of an investigational RSV vaccine in protecting against lower respiratory tract disease.
  • Janssen Ensemble Vaccine Study: A medical research study to evaluate a vaccine for the prevention of COVID-19 involving the Johnson & Johnson Janssen vaccine.
  • Rapid ART HIV Study: This study aims to determine if rapid start of antiretroviral therapy increases retention in HIV medical care.
  • PrEP HIV Study: This study aims to determine the risk factors, outcomes and affordability of obtaining PrEP for the enrolled patients for HIV prevention.

Laboratory Studies

The Division of Infectious Diseases utilizes the Infectious Diseases Laboratory for most research activities and stores samples in their biorepository. Our expert faculty members also conduct and manage their own research.

  • UofL Infectious Diseases Laboratory: Our in-house, CLIA Certified research laboratory, measures and executes procedures, treatment and effects of a study on a given population.
  • UofL Infectious Diseases Biorepository: Developed for the discovery of pathogens and biomarkers, the biorepository now includes specimens and data support for COVID-19 research.
  • Doster Laboratory: The Doster Laboratory is led by Ryan Doster, MD, Assistant Professor in the Division of Infectious Diseases and is focused on bacterial infections during pregnancy.

Learn More

Research Labs

Explore the Infectious Diseases research labs.

Publications

Explore the Infectious Diseases publications.