Jude Uzonna, PhD, DVM

Research summary

Dr. Uzonna’s primary research program focuses on understanding cellular and molecular mechanisms that regulate the induction, maintenance and loss of protective immunity against parasitic infections, particularly those caused by protozoa, with a view to exploiting the information gained from these studies for the development of effective vaccines and vaccination strategies against these infections.

In addition, he is also interested in understanding the immunomodulatory mechanisms that regulate the pathophysiology of systemic inflammatory response syndromes, particularly those associated with sepsis and septic shock.

Dr. Jude Uzonna is a professor in the departments of immunology and medical microbiology at the University of Manitoba. He was a Research Manitoba Chair Professor from 2010 to 2016, and served as associate dean (research) at the Max Rady College of Medicine. Currently, he serves as vice-dean (research), Rady Faculty of Health Sciences.

Dr. Uzonna’s research focuses on understanding cellular and molecular mechanisms that regulate induction, maintenance and loss of protective immunity against parasitic infections with a goal to develop effective vaccines and/or vaccination strategies against these infections. He has mentored many trainees who are currently working in various fields including research, academia, and biotechnology.

Dr. Uzonna has been very successful in attracting millions of dollars in research funding from several organizations including the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, National Science and Engineering Research Council, Research Manitoba, etc. His research is currently funded by CIHR and NSERC.

Education

• Postdoctorate, Infectious Diseases and Immunology, University of Pennsylvania (2004)
• Postdoctorate, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Saskatchewan (2000)
• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Veterinary Microbiology and Immunology, University of Saskatchewan (1998)
• Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM, Distinction) University of Nigeria (1990)

Awards

• Faculty of Graduate Studies Award for Distinction in Mentorship, University of Manitoba
• Carnegie Foundation African Diaspora Fellowship
• Canadian Society for Immunology Investigator Award in Recognition of Outstanding Achievement in Research (Awarded to only one researcher per year)
• Health Sciences Graduate Students Association Award for Distinction in Mentorship, College of Medicine, University of Manitoba
• Manitoba Black Community Award for Outstanding Achievement and Significant Contribution in Education to the Black Community
• Manitoba Health Research Chair in Immunology
• Ken Hughes Award for Outstanding Achievement in Biomedical Research
• Canadian Institutes of Health Research New Investigator Award