Hermance joins USA department of microbiology and immunology

Meghan Hermance, Ph.D., assistant professor of microbiology and immunology, examines arthropod-borne viruses.

A passion for research and a strong desire to share knowledge with others led Meghan Hermance, Ph.D., to a career in the basic sciences within academic medical centers. She joined the faculty of the University of South Alabama College of Medicine in May as an assistant professor in the department of microbiology and immunology.

Basic science research helps contribute to better ways to predict, prevent, diagnose and treat diseases.

“Dr. Hermance is an excellent addition to our faculty, bringing expertise in virology and immunology that will strengthen the research and teaching mission of the university,” said Kevin R. Macaluso, Ph.D., professor and Locke Distinguished Chair of Microbiology and Immunology at USA’s College of Medicine.

Hermance trained in one of the leading U.S. laboratories examining unique aspects of emerging arthropod-borne viruses, Macaluso said. Arthropod-borne viruses, also known as arboviruses, are transmitted to humans primarily through the bites of infected mosquitoes, ticks, sand flies or midges, all of which are all prevalent throughout the Gulf Coast region.

Hermance most recently served as a research scientist in the department of microbiology and immunology at State University of New York (SUNY) Upstate Medical University in Syracuse, New York. Her postdoctoral fellowship was completed at the University of Texas Medical Branch in the department of pathology in Galveston, Texas.

Her research interests are centered on the interface between the arthropod and mammalian host, identifying the factors essential for transmission of pathogens and subsequent illness. Focusing on emerging or potentially introduced viral pathogens, Hermance's research, Macaluso said, will help lay the groundwork for the development of diagnostic and interventional strategies for emerging arboviruses.

“I’ve always hoped to have the opportunity to be in a research and teaching environment with the ability to research, teach courses and train students,” Hermance said. “Training the next generation of scientists is so important.”