Professor Trains Next Generation Scientists in Infectious Disease Prevention

ALUMNI PROFILE

Where Are They Now: Kelly Stefano Cole, C’87

On paper, a typical day for Kelly Stefano Cole, Ph.D., C’87, resembles that of many university professors. However, Cole’s teaching career is colored by her research outside the classroom. Cole works at the University of Pittsburgh as an associate professor of immunology, and served recently as the associate director of the Center for Vaccine Research’s Regional Biocontainment Laboratory.

Cole’s research focuses on developing and implementing animal models for infectious diseases, particularly for vulnerable populations such as pregnancy, young children, elderly, and immunocompromised models. She has been involved in the development of models for influenza, tularemia, and tuberculosis. Her work is largely performed in one of 12 specialized high containment facilities, built with support from the National Institutes of Health (NIH). “Because we were studying influenza during the early part of the 2009 pandemic we were able to rapidly develop animal models and evaluate new treatments,” Cole explained. “If we don’t have ongoing research we won’t have information and resources available when we need them.”

One of the most rewarding parts of Cole’s job is her work with students and lab technicians. “When a student comes in and is really excited about something they’ve discovered, I remember that passion in myself and I feel like I’m passing on my own enthusiasm and making a difference.”

Although she prefers the hands-on lab work with students, Cole emphasized the importance of her administrative tasks. She serves as co-director of the NIH National/ Regional Biocontainment Laboratories Network directors group and leads the Network’s steering committee. She is actively involved in the bioscience community at Pitt, participates in national and international editorial boards for academic journals, and speaks annually on her research.

“These administrative tasks are a critical part of passing on our knowledge,” Cole explained. “While they may not be as exciting as working in the lab, these tasks are required to lead the next generation of scientists.”

Dr. Cole credits the Mount as the major influence in her life that provided the framework necessary to succeed professionally.

“The Mount community helped ground and prepare me for the ‘Big World,’” she explained. “It allowed me to gradually take the necessary steps to obtain my education, while still allowing me to hold onto my faith and my idealism.”

Where are they now?

WHO /// Kelly Stefano Cole, Ph.D., C’87, Biology (Pre-Med) major, Chemistry and Music minors

WHERE /// Associate Professor of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine