GCID Viral Projects

Humans are constantly exposed to a plethora of viruses that cause disease. Highly infectious pathogens such as influenza virus, rotavirus, enteroviruses, and respiratory syncytial virus are a persistent public health concern. Recent outbreaks caused by West Nile, Zika, and other viruses remind us of the ongoing threat posed by emerging and re-remerging viruses. The viral GCID projects at the JCVI focus on defining the genomes of viruses and characterizing virus-host interactions to better understand viral evolution, elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms that cause disease, and aid in the development of novel vaccines and therapeutics.