CEHNS Inaugural Department Chairs

Sep 13, 2023 2:17 PM

Dr. Rebeka Taylor

 

Dr. Taylor's research interests are centered on immunology, especially host-pathogen interactions and mucosal immunology. Currently, Dr. Taylor and several undergraduate and graduate students are currently investigating the prevalence of Borrelia burgdorferi, the causative agent of Lyme disease, in Western Maryland. Ticks are collected and tested for the presence of Borrelia by PCR analysis, and blood and tissue samples from wild mice are also tested by ELISA and PCR. These data along with environmental information will allow a broad picture of the emergence of Lyme in the regional area.                                                                                          

Dr. Taylor mentors undergraduate and graduate students who have an interest in learning advanced biological techniques such as fluorescence microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, dissection and cryopreservation, tissue sectioning, histochemical staining, ELISA, PCR, and cell culture.