What we do

The Eisenbarth lab focuses on defining the cellular and molecular mechanisms that regulate antibody responses. The development and functional outcome of these antibodies relies on the interactions between three immune cells – dendritic cells (DCs), T cells and B cells. We study how these three cell types communicate to shape different types of antibody responses, some protective in the case of vaccination and some harmful in the case of allergy and alloimmunization. This knowledge can be harnessed to induce protective immune responses and subvert pathogenic ones and will provide insight into how the immune system has evolved to protect the host.

How we do it

The Eisenbarth lab culture has a strong emphasis on mentoring and supporting trainees and creating an environment that helps them grow and develop as scientists. We believe in supporting all trainees and valuing their experiences, ideas, and scholarship not in spite of but because of their differing backgrounds. The Eisenbarth lab is committed to diversity and inclusion to benefit our trainees, under-represented minority scientific communities, and the scientific community as a whole. As a result, we participate in programs to engage URM students in science such as Yale BBS Prep and YSERE. Our community-oriented spirit also extends to doing higher quality, more innovative science through a commitment to collaboration with each other and other groups

Why we do it

Through a deep passion for understanding the fundamental principles of the cellular and molecular mechanisms of pathogenic and protective antibody responses, we strive to better understand immunology as a whole and to generate new knowledge to help clinical practice and patients. We work together as a close-knit, supportive, and productive community, which encourages our trainees to become the best scientists and scholars they can be, benefiting the scientific community as a whole.