Helen Rich

Helen Rich completed their undergraduate education at Oberlin College in 2014, and received their Ph.D. from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine Program in Microbiology & Immunology in 2019 working with Dr. John Alcorn. Their thesis work focused on the role of type III interferon (interferon lambda) in influenza/bacterial coinfection, and broad interests include host-pathogen immunology at mucosal surfaces. Outside of lab, Helen enjoys board games, video games, and tabletop RPGs, and outdoor activities including kayaking and camping--but mostly you can find them at home with their cat Leo.

Helen is working on the role of TLR9 in influenza-S. aureus coinfection and will be active in M&I post-doctoral activities. Please join me in welcoming Helen.