Cara Kirby is a PhD student in the Molecular Microbiology and Microbial Pathogenesis program. They graduated from the University of Georgia in 2018 with a BS in Biology and in 2021 with an MS in Comparative Biomedical Sciences. Their master’s research characterized variability in mumps virus glycoproteins between vaccine and outbreak strains and tested recombinant viruses in mouse models to improve the MMR vaccine. They subsequently moved to Washington University in St. Louis where they researched small molecule inhibitors and structurally characterized bunyaviral endonucleases, identifying novel inhibitors of Rift Valley Fever Virus cap-snatching. Following their PhD, Cara plans to pursue a career in scientific journal editing. At WashU, Cara is excited to expand their virology expertise and continue researching host-pathogen interactions. Further, they are eager to join the InPrint scientific editing network, pursue a certification in science communication, and to serve as a mentor with the Young Scientist Program.
