Clément Dominguez Lafage

After completing my Ph.D. in Microbiology at Université Paris-Saclay, I joined Prof. Anders Sönnerborg’s group at Karolinska Institutet in September 2025. My doctoral research focused on host–pathogen interactions in immunocompromised individuals, with particular attention to the cutaneous virome composition and HPV diversity associated with immune status. This work strengthened my interest in understanding how viral and microbial communities adapt to host immune conditions.

At Karolinska Institutet, I work closely with Rafael Ceña Díez within the framework of the EU-funded NatProLub project, which aims to develop a prophylactic gels to prevent HIV-1 and HSV-2 transmission. My current work focuses on in vitro mucosal infection models to evaluate the antiviral efficacy, safety, and impact on the natural microbiota of novel microbicide formulations. In the next phase of the project, I plan to extend these investigations to 3D cervico-vaginal tissue models to better mimic mucosal physiology and viral transmission dynamics.

I am broadly interested in virology, encompassing the exploration of the human and environmental virome, virus–host interactions across human, eukaryotic, and prokaryotic systems, and viral genomics. I am also particularly interested in the development of prophylactic and therapeutic strategies to prevent or control viral infections. In parallel, I aim to better understand how the virome influences human health and to explore its potential as an evolving biomarker for early pathological changes.

During my Ph.D., I taught introductory bioinformatics applied to microbiome analysis to medical students, physicians, and nurses through short training modules. I also supervised Master’s students for several months, providing guidance in molecular biology, genetics, and experimental virology. These experiences allowed me to develop both pedagogical and mentoring skills in interdisciplinary biomedical education.