Introduction

Most of the division faculty members are involved in research. Research interests range widely: basic immunology (Dr. Kolber); pathogenesis of streptococcal infections; molecular tracking of multi-drug resistant bacteria; transplant-associated infections; STDs in women with HIV (Dr. Castro); management of fungal infections and the evaluation of newer antifungal agents (Dr. Morris); factors linked to access to care for persons with HIV infection (Castro, Kolber, Dickinson and others). The major focus of interest, however, is HIV disease, with an emphasis on therapeutic interventions.

Clinical trials are primarily conducted at Jackson Memorial Hospital and the Miami Veterans Affairs Medical Center, however the recent opening of the Clinical Immunology Research Unit at Jackson Towers (a multi-use building on campus), has become the center of divisional research activity. This 6,000 square foot unit contains all facilities necessary to support clinical research: a reception area, waiting room, phlebotomy and specimen processing rooms, examination rooms, office space and a conference room. Currently there are ten research personnel in the unit.

The Special Immunology Clinical/Research Unit at the Miami Veterans Affairs Medical Center is our second facility dedicated to HIV research. This unit is staffed by several physicians and research coordinators under the joint direction of Drs. Nancy Klimas and Gordon Dickinson.