Hong Wei Chu, MD
Hong Wei Chu, MD
Principal Investigator
Professor of Medicine
303.398.1689
chuhw@njhealth.org
Education
1985, MD, Xuzhou Medical College, China
Background
Dr. Chu’s research has been centered on basic and translational studies in asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and cystic fibrosis (CF). As the PI or a Co-Investigator on multiple NIH-funded projects, Dr. Chu has established his national and international reputation in studying lung (airway) immunological and genetic mechanisms of viral and bacterial infections. His expertise includes:
- Airway biology, particularly strong in the area of airway epithelial cells.
- Immunology and microbiology of lung viral and bacterial infections.
- Mechanisms of exacerbations of asthma, COPD and CF.
- Host-pathogen interactions.
Niccolette Schaunaman, MS
Laboratory Manager
303.270.2645 and 303.398.1589
schaefern@njhealth.org
Education
Masters of Immunology and Microbiology: Colorado State University – Class of 2016
Background
Hi, my name is Niccolette. I am the lab manager of the Chu Lab, and have been with the Chu Lab for almost 7 years now. My projects focus on the host-pathogen interaction, specifically during virus infection. I love coming to work every day and getting the chance to not only learn something new, but to also teach and mentor the others in the Chu Lab.
When I am not at work I like to spend time with my family, or relax my brain by watching the newest reality tv series.
Hamid Reza Nouri, PhD
Postdoctoral Research Associate
303.398.1589
nourih@njhealth.org
Education
Mashhad University of Medical Science, Mashhad, Iran, PhD, 2012
Background
Hello, I'm Hamid. I earned PhD in Immunology and subsequently joined to the Department of Immunology of Babol University of Medical School, where I worked on the role of inflammasome complex and IL-β releasing in inflammatory related diseases including allergy and neuroinflammatory disorders. I joined the Chu Lab as postdoctoral research associate and I'm now pursuing my research on molecular mechanism of IL-33 releasing in asthma exacerbation by influenza A virus infection.
Hina Agraval, PhD
Post Doctoral Research Scholar
303.398.1589
agravalh@njhealth.org
Education
Central University of Gujarat, India, PhD, 2021
Background
I have earned my PhD from the Central University of Gujarat, India. During my Ph.D. I worked on elucidating the role of MMPs in cigarette smoke-induced transformation of airway epithelial cells and lung cancer progression. I joined Chu Lab as a postdoctoral research scholar in 2021 to investigate the role of electronic cigarettes and tobacco smoke in airway innate immunity and host defense against pathogens. I am also interested in learning and working with cutting-edge techniques to explore novel biomarkers and associated mechanisms which modulate the innate immune system and contribute to COPD pathophysiology.
Taylor Nichols
Laboratory Research Technician
303.398.1589
Nicholst@njhealth.org
Education
BS in Biology - Gonzaga University, 2022
Background
I have been working with the Chu Lab since August of 2022 and have enjoyed learning and working with my lab partners. After graduation, I moved back to Denver, where I was born and raised, and now get to pursue a research path. In the future, I hope to obtain a Masters in Epidemiology. On the weekends, I love to ski and coach gymnastics!
Diana Cervantes
Researcher
303.398.1589
cervantesd@njhealth.org
Education
BS in biology and medical science
Background
Hi, my name is Diana. I have been a part of the Chu Lab for almost 2 years and am currently a researcher. My research is centered around biased agonist for use as therapeutics in asthma as well host-defense after particulate matter exposure. I enjoy doing benchwork and getting the chance to broaden my knowledge base. In my spare time I like to bake and watch reality tv.
Paige Hartsoe
Lab Research Technician
303.398.1589
hartsoep@njhealth.org
Education
B.S. in Biomedical Engineering- University of Delaware 2017
B.S. in Forensic Biology- Delaware State University 2022
Background
Hi, my name is Paige and I joined the Chu lab in August of 2022. I have enjoyed learning so much over the last few months and look forward to expanding my knowledge. During my undergraduate degree I worked on a forensic research project, and hope to go back to earn my masters in that field in the next few years.
In my free time I also work at a brewery and love getting to meet new people. I also enjoy a good book, and have set a goal to read 60 next year.