The Center for Systems Immunogenetics of Biodefense Pathogens in the Collaborative Cross at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill conducts innovative research focused on the identification of immune regulatory genes and variant alleles that regulate disease outcomes following SARS-CoV, Ebola, Influenza, Chikungunya and West Nile Virus infections and/or vaccinations. The program uses systems genetic based approaches in the Collaborative Cross Genetic Reference Population (csbio.unc.edu/CCstatus/index.py) to map genes that regulate protective or pathogenic immune outcomes following infection or vaccination. Pilot research program goals should fall within one or more of the following areas, including: building collaborative interactions with existing Projects that extend the breadth of the Program; developing new models of human immunity and/or disease; mapping novel immune regulatory genes; responding to emerging public health emergencies; and/or translating murine immune discoveries to human disease and improved public health. Approximately $115,000 total dollars will be available for a 1-year pilot program.
Interested applicants (eligibility: academic faculty or equivalent) are encouraged to submit: