Clinical Leadership

Dr. Ghare holds dual appointments as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Medicine at the University of Louisville and as a Senior Research Scientist at the Norton Neuroscience Institute, Norton Healthcare. Her translational research investigates the complex interplay within the microbiome–gut–liver–brain axis, particularly as it relates to pathological processes driven by aging, chronic alcohol use, and HIV-1 infection. Dr. Ghare serves as a co-investigator on the SEAL study—an R01-funded project by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) titled “Alcohol Misuse, Gut Microbial Dysbiosis and PrEP Care Continuum: Application and Efficacy of SBIRT Intervention” (R01 AA030485). Her current research focuses on delineating the mechanisms by which alcohol and HIV-1–induced gut microbial dysbiosis disrupt microbial metabolite profiles and immune homeostasis, ultimately contributing to chronic inflammation and T cell dysfunction. Her work aims to uncover novel microbial and immunologic targets for therapeutic intervention in vulnerable populations.

Dr. Andrea Reyes-Vega is a Physician Scientist at the University of Louisville School of Medicine. She serves as Clinical Lead and Sub-Investigator for the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA)-funded SEAL study (Alcohol Misuse, Gut Microbial Dysbiosis and PrEP Care Continuum: Application and Efficacy of SBIRT Intervention, R01 AA030485). Her research centers on HIV, neurocognitive decline, and aging, with a strong emphasis on community-engaged approaches. Dr. Reyes-Vega is committed to advancing health equity among populations disproportionately affected by HIV/AIDS, including Latinos and older adults.

Dr. Blake Skidmore is the Research Director within the Kent School of Social Work and Family Science at the University of Louisville. He serves as the Lead Interventionist for the SEAL Study and helps oversee day-to-day project operations. Dr. Skidmore has managed federally funded research projects since 2016, including studies funded by the Institute of Education Sciences (IES) and the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA). His clinical practice and research focus is on motivational enhancement strategies, with a focus on substance misuse treatment. Dr. Skidmore is committed to advancing research that is participant-centered, trauma-informed, and rooted in compassion and collaboration.