Research Area(s)
- Molecular biology, pathogenesis and vaccine development of influenza virus
Academic Credentials
- MSc, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
- PhD, Justus-Liebieg University, Giessen, Germany
- Post-Doctoral Fellow, VIDO, University of Saskatchewan
- Post-Doctoral Felow, Faculty of Medicine, University of Calgary
Dr. Zhou is a Scientist and Project Leader (influenza) at the Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization (VIDO).
Profile
Dr. Zhou is a virologist with specialized training in the molecular biology of the influenza virus. Her research focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms that drive influenza virus pathogenesis and host adaptation. Specifically, her group works on identifying the viral genes associated with disease severity and the factors that contribute to the virus’ ability to spill over into new host species.
Dr. Zhou’s group also investigates the intricate interplay between the influenza virus and the host's innate immune system. Her group explores how the host immune response is activated upon infection and the strategies the virus uses to evade antiviral defenses. By dissecting these host-virus interactions at the molecular level, her group aims to uncover fundamental insights that can inform the rational design of more effective interventions to combat emerging influenza threats.