The Diaz Lab began operations in August 2025 within the Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Preventive Medicine (VMPM) at Iowa State University. We aim to understand the immune responses that occur at mucosal surfaces in response to pathogen invasion, with a focus on respiratory viruses and bacteria that are prevalent in both ruminant and human populations. The lab’s goal is to develop strategies that modulate innate and adaptive immune responses to pathogens, thereby increasing disease resistance and resilience.