UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Troy Sutton, assistant professor of veterinary and biomedical sciences in the College of Agricultural Sciences at Penn State, has been awarded a Dorothy Foehr Huck and J. Lloyd Huck Early Career Chair in Virology.
Sutton investigates influenza virus transmission and evolution, and his lab works with several animal models including birds and rodents. Currently, he is focused on viruses in the H5N1 family that are responsible for the recent outbreaks of bird flu in cattle.
“I am fascinated by pandemic influenza viruses and how they evolve from animal reservoirs,” said Sutton. “The natural reservoir for influenza viruses are wild aquatic birds, and these viruses have spilled over into several other animal species. As a result, we cannot eradicate influenza.”
Sutton’s approach has been to closely study pandemic influenza viruses to gain actionable insights. This information can then be used not only to help better predict which viruses are likely to cause a pandemic, but also to develop improved vaccines that can slow or prevent the spread of influenza viruses in humans.
“Both goals are really focused on improving pandemic preparedness and reducing the disease burden of future influenza pandemics,” Sutton said.
During his term as Huck Chair, Sutton hopes to elevate influenza research at Penn State and advocate for a stronger virology community on campus.
Sandeep Prabhu, department head and professor of veterinary and biomedical sciences reflected on Sutton’s contributions.
“Troy's expertise as a virologist focused on viral transmission dynamics for highly efficacious control strategies has fostered valuable collaborations both within the University and with the broader scientific community. As new and emerging viruses pose increasing threats, his research will be essential in developing innovative treatments to prevent future outbreaks from escalating to pandemic levels.”
Patrick Drew, interim director of the Huck Institutes, said, “Understanding the mechanisms of how viruses can evolve to infect new host species is critical for preventing future pandemics. Troy’s work goes to the heart of this important question, and the Huck is excited to be able to support his impactful and interdisciplinary work.”
Sutton completed his undergraduate and graduate training at the University of British Columbia. His master’s and doctoral research focused on Respiratory Syncytial Virus. Sutton then transitioned to the study of influenza viruses during postdoctoral research at the University of Maryland and National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.