At the University of Utah, our laboratory is dedicated to studying and conducting research at the intersection of immunology and the engineering of biological therapeutics including peptides, proteins, and cells. We possess a deep-rooted passion for exploring the mysteries of immunity and investigating various immunological disorders, including autoimmune diseases and cancer, among others. Our ultimate aim is to develop effective treatments and ultimately find cures for individuals affected by these conditions.
In pursuit of this goal, we are constantly engaged in the creation of novel peptides, proteins, engineered cells that hold potential as innovative medicines or as essential components of new formulations and tools for advancing medical treatments. Meanwhile, we are actively involved in the invention and refinement of cutting-edge engineering approaches, such as CRISPR, omics-guided target identification, and artificial intelligence-enhanced protein and antibody designs.
We wholeheartedly welcome collaborations from those who share our passion and interests. If you are equally passionate about these areas of research, we encourage you to reach out and explore opportunities for collaboration. Together, we can make significant strides in advancing our understanding of immunology and developing transformative therapies for those in need.
Our laboratory is hosted in the state-to-art L.S. Skaggs Research Institute and supported by the Department of Molecular Pharmaceutics at the University of Utah as well as extramural fundings.
News
January 26, 2024. Tainxiao passed his PhD qualifying exam! A major milestone in his career.
November 20, 2023. Lauren was elected by the department to apply for the AFPE fellowship and the University Graduate Research Fellowship.
November 17, 2023. Our research has ventured into uncharted territory as we delve into the examination of immune cells within the brain tissues of epilepsy patients.
New Funding ! July 2023. In partnership with Dr. Karen Wilcox (Pharmacology And Toxicology), Dr. Sixiang Shi (Radiology), Dr. Cameron Metcalf (Pharmacology And Toxicology), and Dr. Shervin Rahimpour (Neurosurgery), Chen Lab was awarded a 2023 Program Project Planning grant by the University of Utah’s Immunology, Inflammation, & Infectious Disease (3i) Initiative. Collaboratively, the team will champion and build a comprehensive research program dedicated to the advancement of therapeutic strategies for epilepsy.
Open Positions: Our lab is continuously accepting applications for Postdoctoral Associate and PhD student positions.