Erin Cafferty

Writer

I am a graduate student at the University of Utah studying host-pathogen interactions and their
impacts on evolution. Viruses are my favorite microbes by far as they are the “bad boys” of the
molecular world. Understanding how viruses hijack host cells gives us a different perspective on well-known biological processes.
I write for MicroBites because I believe that science is for everyone! My goal is to share recent
research findings to a wide audience in an interesting and accessible way. Along with writing, I create visuals to explain complex topics as another way to make science approachable and fun.
As a strong proponent of work-life balance, I enjoy many different hobbies including hiking,
camping, painting, reading, videogames, and binge watching reality TV.

My articles

• Phage discovery gets its groove back with Phage DisCo August 2, 2025
• Hot to Go! Frogs recoup from deadly fungus in hot bricks November 27, 2024
• Symbiotic Solutions! Microbes help trees tolerate climate change March 15, 2024
• Vax the Bats! Can bat herpes help stop the spread of rabies? July 17, 2023