Elliot Reed

Elliot Reed is a PhD student in the Pharmaceutics track under the mentorship of Dr. Kerry Empey. His research focuses on viral immunology, mucosal vaccine development, and nanoparticle-based vaccine delivery, with a particular emphasis on respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Elliot studies how vaccines delivered directly to the respiratory tract can activate local immune responses and generate durable protection against respiratory viruses. His work uses human tonsil organoid models and preclinical systems to better understand how vaccine antigens and immune-stimulating components shape B-cell, T-cell, and antibody responses. Ultimately, this research aims to support the development of safe and effective intranasal RSV vaccines for pediatric populations.

Following completion of his PhD, Elliot plans to pursue a research-focused career investigating vaccines and immune responses to respiratory viruses, with the long-term goal of advancing new approaches to vaccine development and translating laboratory findings into strategies that improve human health. He plans on going into academia once completing his education.