Dr. Laurence Morel is investigating the mechanisms of lupus pathogenesis. The ultimate goal of her work is to establish better clinical management and therapeutic targets by identifying lupus susceptibility in genes or pathways. Her current focus is CD4 T cells and B cells. In 2022, the University of Texas System awarded Dr. Morel $1.4M to establish a new research laboratory with a focus on lupus. Lupus is an autoimmune disease causes inflammation and pain. Over 90% of lupus patients are women and the majority are African-American and Hispanic.
Dr. Morel began her PhD journey in France at the University of Aix-Marseille, followed by training at the University of Florida in immunogenetics. She became a faculty member at the University of Florida in 1999 followed by tenure and Vice Chair for Research and Academic Affairs.
Dr. Morel is currently a Professor, the Department Chair and the Zachry Foundation Distinguished Chair in Mircrobiology and Immunology at UT Health San Antonio.
