Prof Gobert is an internationally recognised researcher in the field of helminth biology, and more specifically molecular studies profiling the blood fluke of the genus Schistosoma. Schistosomiasis is a major human disease of tropical and sub-tropical countries. He has published extensively in peer reviewed journals, and contributed to two book chapters, in the fields of parasitology and cellular/molecular biology. His research interests cover a range of fields including molecular detection of human and animal helminths, Helminth functional genomics, microbiomes and helminths, schistosome induced hepatic granuloma formation and resolution, and helminth tegumental structure/function. Overall his research agenda and expertise falls under the broad banner of host-parasite interactions, and the use of transcriptomics, functional genomics and cellular biology. More recently the applications of novel diagnostics such as eDNA have been led within his laboratory, He has active international research collaboration with groups in Australia, Uganda, Malaysia, USA, Thailand, China and Tanzania. His local research collaborations include the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, NUI-Galway, Kingston University, Cambridge University, Oxford University and the University of Glasgow.

Editorial Board

Molecular and Biochemcial Parasitology, Special Contents Editor (since 2021)

BMC Infectious Diseases (Since 2020)

Experimental Parasitology (since 2009)

PLoS One (Associate Editor 2011-2015)

My research is primarily focused on host-pathogen interactions, specifically schistosome parasites and hepatic inflammation/granuloma formation. I am particularly interested in the identification of specific parasite factors that suppress host fibrosis and inflammation, which could represent valuable cellular regenerative options for a broad range of hepatic diseases, beyond those caused by helminths.

More recently I have expanded my interests to include agricultural helminths of importance in the UK and internationally. The parasite Fasciola is one of these pathogens currently under study. 

I lead research projects investigating how the Calcium Signalling Pathway is pivotal to the mode of action of the anthelmintic praziquantel in schistosomes. Specific components within this pathway represent pivotal factors essential for parasite survival after drug administration. The targeting of these components represent an important strategy for the future development of new anthelmintic compounds.

I strive to answer biological questions investigating the molecular and cellular aspects of parasite disease. I utilise leading research methods such as transcriptomics (microarray and RNAseq), advanced microscopy (including electron microscopy and laser microdissection capture) and gene atlasing, and have published in the areas of immunological signaling and regulation, as associated with parasite induced hepatic fibrosis. I am interested in further expanding my research into antigen processing and presentation in the liver, using in vitro, ex vivo and in vitro techniques I have recently established.