Professor Breuer's research at the MCR-UCL Centre for Molecular Virology has resulted in the successful development of methodoligies to recover low copy viral DNA from clinical samples and subsequent generation of template suitable for whole genome sequencing, including the detection of rare variants. She is currently applying these methods to investigate the genetic association of Varicella zoster (VZV) and Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) with different disease states. Other research interests include genetic variation of alpha HSV and pathogenesis in skin tissue, and broader molecular diagnostic tools in viral disease. Professor Breuer also holds positions as Consultant Virologist at Great Ormond Street Hospital, and Head of the VZV Reference Laboratory (http://www.clinical-virology.org/pages/vzrl/vzrl_summary.html).