Our Team

Kenny Stapleford, PhD

Principle Investigator

I'm passionate about all things science, viruses, and probably some other things too. Originally from Delaware, I did my undergraduate degree at the University of Delaware and my Ph.D at the University of Michigan (Go Blue!!). After postdocs at Yale University and the Institut Pasteur in Paris, I now spend my days soaking in NYC and doing amazing science with our team.

Nicole Rondeau

PhD Candidate

I am a proud graduate of Barnard College of Columbia University where I received a dual BA in Biology and Dance with honors. After studying herpesvirus reactivation postgrad in Dr. JJ Miranda’s lab at Barnard College, I matriculated into NYU’s Vilcek Graduate School in 2022 and joined the Stapleford Lab in the fall of 2023! My thesis work focuses on understanding the molecular differences between the three distinct lineages of La Crosse virus. When not counting virus plaques or singing to Taylor Swift in the tissue culture room, I can be found taking dance class or cuddled up on the couch reading.

Ariana Dedvukaj

Research Technician

I graduated from Rutgers University in May 2024 with a BA in Biology and minor in Public Health. After researching La Crosse virus as an undergrad, I joined the Stapleford Lab in July 2024. My work here focuses on how certain viral proteins contribute to La Crosse virus pathogenicity. Outside of the lab, I enjoy spending time with my family, traveling, long walks around the city, and (of course) Dunkin Donuts iced coffee!

Ela Ozsoy

Undergraduate Researcher

I am an undergraduate student at New York University, pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Biology with a minor in Data Science. I joined the Stapleford Lab in March 2025, and my work here focuses on contributing to the phylogenetic studies of the La Crosse virus. Outside of the lab, I can be found singing, playing instruments, and spending time with my family and friends!

Past Lab Members

Elfie De Jesus - Research Technician (2016-2018)
Petro Leka - SURP Student (2017)
Lucia Carrau - Visiting Ph.D student, Institut Pasteur, Paris (2017)
Angelica Kottkamp - Infectious Disease Fellow (2018)
Catherine Blandon - PostBac (2019)
Karina Flores - SURP Student (2019)
Maryska Kaczmarek - Postdoctoral Fellow (2019-2020)
Bruno Rodriguez-Rodriguez - Graduate Student (2018-2020)
Margarita Rangel - Graduate Student (2016-2022)
Backtash Wallizada - Undergraduate Researcher (2021-2022)

Gaby Noval - Postdoctoral Fellow (2017-2023)

Sara Thannickal - Research Technician (2020-2024)

Sophie Spector - Research Technician (2021-2024)

Marie-France Martin - Postdoctoral Fellow (2022-2024)

Nia McCray - Undergraduate Researcher (2023-2024)

Sedem Apedo - Undergraduate Researcher (2023-2024)

Devon Mooring - SURP Student (2024)