Project Grant K25AI196259

This five-year research training program, funded by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) under the Allergy and Infectious Diseases Research program (CFDA 93.855), supports the career development of an applied mathematician transitioning to independent biomedical research. The award of $161,946, obligated as of April 2, 2026, and extending through March 31, 2031, facilitates the development and validation of mathematical models to understand SARS-CoV-2 (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2) variant emergence in immunocompromised individuals. The researcher will collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of experts in infectious disease modeling, clinical care, epidemiology, viral evolution, and biostatistics to accomplish two primary objectives: identifying mechanisms that generate variants of concern during prolonged infections in immunocompromised hosts and determining key bottlenecks limiting variant predominance in the general population.

The program deliverables include validated mathematical modeling frameworks informed by viral, immune, phylogenetic, and epidemiological datasets, with applicability to other pathogens beyond SARS-CoV-2. Awardee Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center in Seattle, Washington will provide institutional support and mentorship infrastructure. The training component encompasses didactic coursework in virology, immunology, epidemiology, and phylogenetics, supplemented by professional development in research mentorship and group leadership skills. This structured approach ensures the researcher's successful transition to independent biomedical research while advancing critical knowledge regarding coronavirus variant dynamics and pandemic preparedness.