Hongming’s main research interest is in identifying host factors that contribute to or restrict virus infection. Currently, he is focusing on entry factors for alphaviruses, especially the encephalitis causing alphaviruses Venezuelan / Eastern / Western Equine Encephalitis virus (VEEV, EEEV and WEEV). He is also interested in the regulations of Interferon pathway, especially the negative regulators. His past research activities also include developing siRNA tools in HIV therapy, and infectious disease control and prevention in aqua cultural animals.