Swatantra Kumar

My research focuses on understanding host–virus interactions and developing effective immunological strategies against emerging viral infections. During my doctoral work, I investigated the mechanistic basis of Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) neuropathogenesis and developed antiviral strategies, along with a PAN-JEV vaccine candidate aiming to prevent infection against multiple JEV genotypes. I have also contributed to COVID-19 research, including early structural and antigenic characterization of SARS-CoV-2, as well as the identification of key mutations in the Omicron variant associated with immune escape and vaccine breakthrough.

Currently, I am working as a Postdoctoral Researcher (Research Associate-I) at the National Institute of Immunology (NII), as part of INCENTIVE consortium. My research focuses on understanding the immune determinants of influenza vaccine responsiveness using systems immunology approaches. I am involved in translational vaccine research, including immunogenicity assessment and challenge studies in non-human primate (NHP) models, contributing to the preclinical development of next-generation universal influenza vaccines.

My long-term research interest lies in deciphering tissue-specific immunological memory responses against viral infections and designing next-generation vaccine strategies that elicit durable, site-specific immunity. Through integrating virology, immunology, and systems-level approaches, I aim to address critical gaps in vaccine responsiveness and advance the development of effective interventions against emerging pathogens.