Principal Investigator
Ralph Pantophlet, PhD
Professor, Faculty of Health Sciences
Associate Member, Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry
Michael Smith Foundation for Health Research Scholar (2012-2020)
Canadian Institutes of Health Research New Investigator (2009-2015)
Office: Blusson Hall, Room 11712
Phone: (778) 782-8648 | Fax: (778) 782-5927 | Email: rpantophlet@sfu.ca
Profile: FHS faculty profile | Feature: Canadian Association for HIV Research (CAHR)
Education
- B.Sc., Polytechnic Faculty, Hogeschool Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Ph.D., University of Leiden, The Netherlands/Research Center Borstel, Germany
Biography
Dr. Pantophlet is a tenured Professor in the Faculty of Health Sciences and an Associate Faculty member of the Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry. He joined the Faculty of Health Sciences in 2008 and is currently the head of the Laboratory of Infectious Diseases Immunology, the Flow Cytometry Lab, and the Biocontainment for Infectious Organisms level 3 (BIO3) Lab. He received his B.Sc. in medical microbiology from the Hogeschool Rotterdam & Omstreken in 1995 and his Ph.D. from the University of Leiden in 1999 for his research on the immunochemical properties of Acinetobacter lipopolysaccharides. He then did postdoctoral research on anti-HIV antibodies and vaccine design at The Scripps Research Institute under the mentorship of Dr. Dennis Burton, before returning to the Research Center Borstel for a brief period and rejoining the Burton laboratory as a senior postdoctoral fellow to focus on HIV-1 vaccine design in 2003.
Current Team

Research Assistant/Tech 3 (2023-present)
Research Assistant/Tech 2 (2020-2023)
Research Assistant (2019-2020)
kwn5@sfu.ca
Research
My past research experience has solidified my passion for antiviral research. As a member of the Pantophlet Lab, I have had the opportunity to develop a wide range of laboratory skills, including flow cytometry, protein purification, and mammalian tissue culture. These skills have allowed me to contribute to ongoing research projects and make meaningful contributions to the lab’s efforts to design more effective vaccines against viruses such as HIV and influenza.
In addition to my primary research responsibilities, I play an important role in mentoring and supporting other members of the lab. As a research-experienced lab member, I am able to guide and assist less-experienced lab members with their research work, providing them with the knowledge and support they need to succeed. I take great pride in helping others and fostering a positive and collaborative environment within the lab.
Other Interests
I am an easy-going and cheerful individual with great love for nature and travelling. I enjoy hiking, kayaking and skiing when on vacation. In particular, I love spending time with my family and friends meandering along a nice easy trail where relaxed and delightful conversations can take place.

Research Assistant/Tech 1 (2024-present)
Lab Assistant (2023-2024)
Undergraduate research intern (2022)
oxing@sfu.ca
Research
I graduated from Simon Fraser University in 2023 with a Bachelor’s degree majoring in Biological Sciences with a focus on cells, molecules, and physiology and a minor in Health Sciences specializing in life science. I have a deep interest in the field of immunology, and I am particularly eager to delve into vaccine research. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to be a member of the Pantophlet Lab, where I have been able to contribute to ongoing research on understanding mutational pathways that lead to the development of broadly reactive neutralizing antibodies targeting the antigenically conserved hemagglutinin stem of flu viruses. This research aims to improve the effectiveness of current flu vaccines and develop new, more effective vaccines in the future. I am excited to continue learning and growing in this field as I pursue further education and professional opportunities.
Other Interests
I like watching movies and reading fictions in my free time. I love nature and often go on walks along the beach or in the woods. I have also been playing the flute for 14 years and enjoy playing or listening to music to relax. Additionally, I love spending time with my family and my dog, as well as cooking and bird-watching.

Graduate student (2024-present)
BSc Honours (2024)
angela_omrani@sfu.ca
Research
I am a Beedie Luminaries Scholar and a Master’s student at SFU, specializing in molecular biology and biochemistry. My educational journey has been unique, fostering resilience and adaptability from many past challenges. Having completed my Honour’s project in the Pantophlet Lab, I am eager to continue contributing to research using a human-antibody transgenic mouse model on possible avenues to induce broadly neutralizing antibodies (bnAbs) with a germline-targeting HIV-1 vaccine candidate. I am passionate about research and aspire to attend medical school after completing my Master’s.
Other Interests
In my spare time, I enjoy learning and developing new skills. I am passionate about swimming, hiking and reading, and I also love a good TV show or movie marathon.

Research Associate (2024-present)
anejatie@sfu.ca
Research
I am a dedicated researcher with a PhD in Chemistry, passionate about developing diagnostics and therapies for human diseases and cancer. I have over ten years of experience in organic synthesis, enzymology, chemical biology, glycobiology, molecular biology, and translational medicine. I have developed assays, designed and synthesized immunogens, screened antibody-secreting hybridomas, and tested drugs in cancer mouse models. I have also produced and purified antibodies and antigens and conducted high-throughput screenings of bioactive molecules. My work has resulted in publications, patents, and presentations, reflecting my commitment to advancing science. At the Pantophlet Lab, I am excited to contribute to ongoing research and help develop innovative antibody therapeutics for the PROGENITER project.
Other Interests
I love to travel and explore nature with my family. When I have free time, I love to discover BC’s craft beer culture and often brew my concoctions from time to time.

BSc Honours student (2025-present)
Undergraduate research intern (2024)
annabella_wang@sfu.ca
Research
I am a fourth-year student pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences at Simon Fraser University. My experience with allergen immunotherapy ignited my fascination with the immune system and sparked a deep interest in immunology and vaccine development. The power of the immune system offers unlimited research potential. I am eager to expand my knowledge beyond the classroom and excited about the opportunity to contribute to real-world applications in the Pantophlet lab. I am incredibly excited by my Honours project in the lab.
Other Interests
I enjoy watching documentaries and TV series, as well as reading fiction and popular science books. Travelling is one of my favourite ways to enjoy vacations, as it helps me recharge while exploring diverse landscapes. I also love spending time with friends, whether we are relaxing on a sunny beach, hunting for great food, or cooking at home together.

Research Assistant/Tech 2 (2024-present)
eemilyko@sfu.ca
Research
I graduated from the University of British Columbia with a BSc in Integrated Sciences, focusing on Genetics & Immunology, in 2023. From my early co-op experience in the industry setting developing antibody therapeutics for cancer and my work with infectious diseases at the BC Center for Disease Control, I have a deep interest in developing antibody therapeutics for infectious diseases. By participating in the PROGENITER project, I can further delve into this passion at the Pantophlet Lab.
Other Interests
In my free time, you can find me trying various hobbies to satisfy my curiosity. I am currently immersed in coloring (extremely therapeutic!). I love playing the ukulele, listening to Noah Kahan, watching crime documentaries and horror movies, trying out TikTok recipes, dragon boating, and rotting with my cat, Sir Dewey Decimal System!

Research Associate (2025-present)
minghsik@sfu.ca
Research
My primary research interest lies in virology, and I focused my doctoral studies on herpesviruses. Building upon this foundation, I gained valuable experience in the biotech industry, where I worked on developing VHH antibodies against animal pathogens. During this time, I utilized phage display technology and a variety of functional assays, identifying several antibodies with promising neutralizing activities. Furthermore, I oversaw protein production, ensuring the timely availability of high-quality proteins for functional testing. I am now passionate about returning to studying viruses and contributing my knowledge and expertise in antibody discovery and characterization to the PROGENITER project at the Pantophlet Lab.
Other Interests
I love travelling, especially to Japan, where I enjoy immersing myself in the local culture and food. In my free time, I like to watch TV series, read interesting scientific news, and share it on social media. Additionally, I enjoy collaborating with other groups on scientific communication projects.

Research Associate (2025-present)
craig_robb@sfu.ca
Research
My research centers on the discovery, design, and optimization of antibodies targeting viral pathogens. I focus on engineering high-affinity, broadly neutralizing antibodies against viral surface proteins from respiratory viruses. By integrating structure-guided design and computational modelling, I develop soluble antigens and B cell probes to facilitate immune profiling and monoclonal antibody selection. I clone, produce, purify, and characterize antibodies and antigens to find the gems. Combined with structural biology, I hope to bring novel therapeutics to the fore.
Other Interests
When I’m not in the lab, I find balance through hiking, gardening, and traveling.

Postgraduate research intern (2025-present)
lauren_kazak@sfu.ca
Research
I joined the Pantophlet Lab as a post-graduate volunteer intern after completing my BSc in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry at SFU. Motivated by a strong interest in virology and immunology, I support day-to-day lab operations by preparing buffers and microbial media, as well as maintaining the cleanliness and organization of lab spaces. Through this experience, I hope to build practical skills and deepen my understanding of experimental research in preparation for graduate studies.
Other Interests
I enjoy spending time with friends and family, but I also love curling up with a good book or documentary series. Most days you’ll find me at home with my dog Luna, a Papillon. When I’m feeling adventurous, I like discovering new foods and exploring new places around BC.

Postgraduate research intern (2025-present)
luis_esguerra@sfu.ca
Research
I joined the Pantophlet Lab as a volunteer after completing my Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences at SFU. With plans to pursue an MD, I’m gaining foundational lab experience by supporting core operations, including autoclaving and restocking labware, maintaining supplies, and assisting in the management of biohazardous waste. This hands-on exposure is helping me build practical skills and deepen my understanding of how research and clinical care intersect.
Other Interests
I’m someone who’s always on the move—whether pushing limits at the gym, hiking, rock climbing, or snowboarding through fresh powder. I love staying active, but I also find balance through creative outlets like photography and collecting LEGO sets (yes, even as an adult). Whether I’m capturing the perfect shot or building something brick by brick, I enjoy challenging myself, staying curious, and finding joy in both big adventures and quiet, detailed moments.

Undergraduate research intern (2025-present)
ska294@sfu.ca
Research
I am an incoming fifth-year Microbiology and Biochemistry student at Simon Fraser University. I joined the Pantophlet Lab as an undergraduate volunteer to gain hands-on experience with lab equipment, research techniques, and the day-to-day workflow of an active research environment. I have a strong passion for immunology and a particular interest in cancer therapy. My goal is to pursue a career in medical laboratory science, where I can continue learning and contribute to healthcare through research.
Other Interests
One of my favorite hobbies is playing guitar—especially learning and creating covers of songs I enjoy. Lately, I’ve been inspired to compose an original piece and hope to keep developing it throughout the year. I’m also a big fan of anime and love immersing myself in its world during my free time.
Past Lab Members
Sarah Eljazam, BSc | Postgraduate research intern (2024-2025) |
Ronald Ye, Undergraduate Student | Undergraduate research intern (2024-2025) |
Andrii Yevchuk, Postgraduate Student | MITACS Globalink Research Intern (2024) |
Kiana Roshanzamir, Undergraduate Student | Undergraduate research intern (2024) |
Nicole Goussiatiner, Undergraduate Student | Undergraduate research intern (2024) |
Sue Kang, Undergraduate Student | Undergraduate research intern (2024) |
Sayma Hussain, BSc | Postgraduate research intern (2024) |
Jason (Myung Ho) Eom, Undergraduate Student | HSCI 489 Undergraduate student researcher (2024) |
Ines Ciccateri, Undergraduate Student | Undergraduate research intern (2024) |
Ernest Hoptioncann, Undergraduate Student | HSCI 489 Undergraduate student researcher (2024) |
Phuong Nghi (Krystal) Bui, BSc | Graduate research intern (2023-2024) |
Sadra Afshar Moghaddam, Undergraduate Student | Undergraduate research intern (2023-2024) |
Angela Wiehahn, Undergraduate Student | Undergraduate research intern (2023-2024) |
Muskanpreet Jammu, Undergraduate Student | Undergraduate research intern (2023) |
Richard Alex, Undergraduate Student | Co-op Lab Assistant (2023) |
Harleen Buttar, Undergraduate Student | Undergraduate research intern (2023) |
Irene Cheng, Undergraduate Student | Undergraduate research intern (2023) |
Bennett Lee, Undergraduate Student | Undergraduate research intern (2023) |
Nadia Ahmed, Undergraduate Student | Undergraduate research intern (2023) |
Hana Moosaakbari, Undergraduate Student | Undergraduate research intern (2022-2023) |
Nathaniel Cortese, Undergraduate Student |
Undergraduate research intern (2023)
BISC 499 Undergraduate student researcher (2022) BISC 498 Undergraduate student researcher (2022) |
Tina Nguyen, Undergraduate Student | Undergraduate research intern (2022) |
Brenna Lee, Undergraduate Student |
Undergraduate research intern (2022)
Co-op Lab Assistant (2022) |
Mackenzie Sturn, Undergraduate Student | Undergraduate research intern (2022) |
Abhimanyu Minhas, Undergraduate Student | Undergraduate research intern (2022) |
Sarah Wong, Undergraduate Student | Undergraduate research intern (2022) |
Isabel Laprise, Undergraduate Student | Undergraduate research intern (2022) |
Mariam Hakimi, Undergraduate Student | Undergraduate research intern (2022) |
Angelica Macapagal, Undergraduate Student | Undergraduate research intern (2022) |
Manjot Sidhu, Undergraduate Student | BISC 498 Undergraduate student researcher (2022) |
Shannen Arviola | Undergraduate research intern (2021) |
David Savage | BISC 499 Undergraduate student researcher (2021) |
Mehrad Hassan-Dokht-Firouz | BISC 498 Undergraduate student researcher (2021) |
Simran Basra | Co-op Lab Assistant (2021) |
Li Yi Lim, Undergraduate Student |
Undergraduate research intern (2021-2022)
VPR Undergraduate Student Research Award (USRA) Recipient (2021) |
Diana Yang | FHS Dean's Undergraduate Student Research Award (USRA) Recipient (2020) |
Hajar Chihab, PhD | Postdoctoral Fellow (2020-2022) |
Simon Wang |
Molecular Biology and Biochemistry Honours student (2020)
Undergraduate Research Intern (2020) |
Yiqiu Yang |
FHS Dean's Undergraduate Student Research Award (USRA) Recipient (2020)
Undergraduate Research Intern (2019-2020) |
Edarlin Royce Bigornia, BSc | Undergraduate Researcher/Intern (2019-2020) |
Alejandra Jahns | Undergraduate Research Intern (2019) |
Quiana Ang, BSc Hons |
Graduate Student (2020-2022)
VPR Undergraduate Student Research Award (USRA) Recipient (2020) Undergraduate research intern (2019-2020) |
Sophie Fu, MSc | Research Assistant/Intern (2019-2020) |
Tess Kirilenko, BSc |
Undergraduate Researcher (2019)
GlycoNet Summer Award Recipient (2019) |
Asa Lau | Undergraduate Research Intern (2019) |
Jean-François Bruxelle, PhD | Postdoctoral Fellow (2018-2021) |
Natallia Varankovich, PhD | Senior Research Assistant (2019) |
Nikki Atanasova, MSc | Research Assistant (2018) |
Dahn Hahm, MSc | Research Assistant (2018) |
Gurshaan Sidhu | Undergraduate Research Intern (external) (2018) |
Vanesa Tomas Bosch, MSc | Senior Research Assistant (2018) |
Heather Galley, BSc (Hons) | Research Assistant (2018) |
Helen Do | Undergraduate Research Intern (2018) |
Lea Sanchez Milde, BSc | Lab Assistant (part-time) (2018) |
Michelle Chan YeeTeng | Undergraduate Research Intern (2018) |
Quratulain Qureshi | Undergraduate Research Intern (2018) |
Naiomi Lu, BSc |
Undergraduate Research Intern (2017)
VPR Undergraduate Student Research Award (USRA) Recipient (2017) Lab Assistant (2017-2018) |
Sreedevi Kesavan | Undergraduate Research Intern (2017) |
Daniella Bavaro | Undergraduate Research Intern (2017) |
Saru Sandhu | Undergraduate Research Intern (2017) |
Shianne Bains | Undergraduate Research Intern (2017) |
Alekhya Josyula, BSc | MSc student (2014-2017) |
Vivian Qian Liu, PhD | Postdoctoral Fellow (2016) |
Iva Demirova |
Grade 11 Pre-International Baccalaureate (IB) Research Intern (2015-2016)
National Sanofi Biogenius Award Student (2016) |
Nina Maglanoc | Undergraduate Research Intern (2015-2016) |
Ruth Wijaya |
Undergraduate Research Intern (2014-2016)
Undergraduate Research Award (USRA) Student (2015) |
Jessica Parker | Undergraduate Research Intern (2015) |
Alexandra Vela | Research Intern (2015) |
Caitlin Rempel |
Undergraduate Research Intern (2013-2014)
Research Assistant & Acting Lab Manager (2014) |
Timothy Crowe | MSc Student (2013-2014) |
Megan Curpen | Research Intern (2013-2014) |
Natalia Savasteeva | Visiting Student (Concordia U) Research Intern (2014) |
Simrita Sandhu | Research Intern (2014) |
Barinder Sangha | Honors Student (2014) |
Natalie Kinloch | Research Intern (2014) |
Dennis Chau |
Research Assistant & Acting Lab Manager (2013-2014)
Research Intern (2010-2011; 2012-2013) |
Angela Trinh | Research Intern (2013) |
Sophia Tsai | Research Intern (2013) |
Kate Auyeung, BSc |
Senior Research Assistant (2009-2013)
Lab Manager (2011-2013) |
Allan Linde | Research Intern (2012) |
Jessica Sidhu | Research Intern (2012) |
Sunny Tang | Research Intern (2011-2012) |
Savrina Manhas, BSc | MSc Student (2010-2012) |
Fatima Ahmed, BSc | MSc Student (2010-2012) |
Irina Vicol | Honors Student (2012) |
Maxim Parfyonov | Research Intern (2012) |
Lauretta Yu | Research Intern (2011) |
Lisa Kieneker | Honors Student (2011) |
Ben Chan | Undergraduate Research Assistant (2011) |
Matt Michaleski |
Honors Student (2010)
Lab Assistant (2010-2011) |
Brenda Clark, MSc |
Senior Research Assistant (2009-2011)
Lab Manager (2009-2011) |
Basim Nehal | Research Intern (2011) |
Jose-Tam Huang | Research Intern (2010-2011) |
James Kwon | Research Intern (2010-2011) |
Sima Gerami | Research Intern (2010) |
Abby Lin | Research Intern (2010) |