Dr Steven Kho

Dr Kho leads an internationally recognised research program on the biology and pathophysiology of human malaria. His research has fundamentally reshaped understanding of malaria pathogenesis through discovery of a hidden splenic reservoir of Plasmodium parasites in humans which has transformed the parasite’s lifecycle and redefined malaria as primarily an infection of the spleen. His current work aims to dissect the underlying biology of the major hidden splenic reservoir in malaria and identify new intervention strategies to reduce splenic parasite survival. His program extends to malaria studies on parasite genetics, transcriptomics, erythrocyte biology, anemia, modelling, immune tolerance and post-splenectomy risks. Dr Kho also has research interests in platelet interactions, neutrophil extracellular traps, and host immune mechanisms across multiple Plasmodium species. His work combines laboratory-based research with field studies in malaria-endemic regions, with partnerships across Australia, Southeast Asia, Africa, Europe and US.

Research Interests:

• Malaria pathophysiology
• Parasitology
• Genetics
• Transcriptomics
• Immunology