About
Professor John Heckels obtained his Ph.D in Microbiological Chemistry and has had a career long interest in the surface antigens of pathogenic bacteria and their interaction with the host. In particular the role of outer membrane proteins in pathogenesis and induction of immune responses. The primary focus has been on the identification of potential candidates for inclusion in new vaccines against infection, particularly meningococcal meningitis and gonorrhoea. These studies included the development of novel techniques to identify surface antigens associated with the development of natural immunity following colonization and infection. He has also contributed to the training and development new researchers through postgraduate programmes.
Research
Research groups
Research interests
- The structure and immunochemistry of the surface antigens of pathogenic Neisseria
- The development of immunity to meningococcal meningitis and gonorrhoea
- The identification and evaluation of potential vaccine candidates for prevention Neisseria infections
Research projects
Completed projects
Publications
Teaching
Professor Heckels has had a continuing interest in the in the training of new generation of researchers firstly as a supervisor of research students and was for many years Director of Postgraduate Studies for the School of Medicine.
Biography
In collaboration with Professor Myron Christodoulides work is focused on studies of the immune responses in patients with gonorrhoea, identification of outer membrane proteins associated with the induction of potentially protective immune responses and evaluation of their potential as vaccines aimed at preventing infection.