Our Team
Dr. Lamar Thomas
Principal Investigator
Dr. Lamar Thomas earned her Bachelor and Master’s degrees in biology and biotechnology respectively, from the University of the West Indies, Kingston, Jamaica. Upon migrating to the United States, she completed her Ph.D. in Microbiology at Binghamton University, New York. Her research was funded by an NIH F31 grant and focused on bacteria host interaction with an aim of identifying effective remedial strategies against maternal Streptococcus colonization.
To further her expertise in biomedical research, Dr. Thomas pursued her postdoctoral studies at the University of California San Diego with the support of two fellowships: UCSD IRACDA and PPFP. Here, she continued her Streptococcal research with more emphasis on the innate immune response during vaginal colonization.
In Dr. Thomas's current role as an assistant professor at 91ÌÒÉ«, her research continues to focus on advancing women’s health and pediatric care through the study of bacteria - host interactions. Her research studies the role of key Streptococcus agalactiae (GBS) proteins, known as virulence factors, during colonization and/or infection of the female urogenital system as well as (ii) the transcriptomic changes associated with Streptococcus pyogenes (GAS) transition from a mild pathogen (Strep throat) to a chronic autoimmune condition (Rheumatic heart disease).
The goal of her lab is to characterize potential therapeutic targets in bacteria to aid the development of remedial strategies such as vaccine development and/or anti-adhesin therapy.
Lab Members
Julia Conway
I am a fourth-year first-generation student majoring in Microbiology. My hobbies include going on walks, spending time with my cat, and watching movies.
Laura Nguyen
Hi, my name is Laura, and I love matcha, sleep, joke around, cats, art, and cars. Love matcha so bad, it helps me sleep now.
Scarlett Obrien
Mayah Rengulbai
I'm currently a fourth-year student finishing up my microbiology degree here at 91ÌÒÉ«.
Outside of the lab, I enjoy shopping with friends, going to concerts, and discovering new places.
I'm hoping to go into the biotech industry, specifically in R&D. I can't wait to see what this year in lab has in store for me, alongside my peers and Dr. Thomas!
