Understanding how pathogens like COVID-19 evolve and spread
Official title: The Michigan Infectious Disease Genomics (MIDGE) Center
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-10852054 · Data updated 2026-11-12
The Michigan Infectious Disease Genomics Center is looking at how germs like SARS-CoV-2 change over time, which can help us understand how they spread and resist treatments, so we can find better ways to prevent and treat infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project start | June 14, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $6,233,451 |
| NIH project number | 1U19AI181767-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10852054 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include adults aged 21 and older who are affected by or at risk for infections caused by pathogens like SARS-CoV-2 or Candida auris.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not adults or those with infections not related to the pathogens being studied may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
The Michigan Infectious Disease Genomics (MIDGE) Center focuses on using advanced genomic sequencing technologies to study how various pathogens, including SARS-CoV-2, evolve and adapt. By examining the genetic changes that contribute to their ability to spread and resist treatments, the research aims to identify key factors that lead to epidemic success. The center will conduct genomic surveillance and functional genomics, along with high-throughput assays, to gather comprehensive data on these pathogens. This research could help inform better prevention and treatment strategies for infectious diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for controlling and treating infectious diseases, particularly during pandemics.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has successfully utilized genomic sequencing to understand pathogen evolution and resistance, indicating that this approach is both tested and promising.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lauring, Adam — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Lauring, Adam
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.