David Underhill

David Underhill, PhD, is a Professor of Biomedical Sciences and Medicine at Cedars-Sinai, serving as Chair of the Department of Biomedical Sciences and Member of the IBD Institute. His research focuses on molecular mechanisms governing immune recognition of microbes and inflammatory responses, particularly the role of phagocytes like macrophages and dendritic cells. He earned his PhD in Cell Biology from Washington University in St. Louis (1995). His work explores the mycobiota’s impact on gut immunity and inflammatory diseases, with translational goals to develop therapies targeting microbial interactions.

Education:

• PhD in Cell Biology, Washington University in St. Louis (1995)

Research Interests: The lab investigates microbial recognition by innate immune cells, phagocytosis, and the gut mycobiota’s role in inflammatory bowel disease. Key areas include understanding how fungi in the microbiome regulate immune responses and contribute to inflammation.

Awards:

• 2017 Distinguished Leadership in Graduate Research Education Award (Cedars-Sinai)

Grants & Collaborations: Active grants include studies on fungal dysbiosis in post-influenza pneumonia, mycobiome-targeted therapies in Crohn’s disease, and mast cell stabilization in cardiovascular inflammation. The lab collaborates widely within Cedars-Sinai and globally.

Labs & Teams: The Underhill Lab hosts postdoctoral scientists, research associates, and a dedicated lab manager. Focus areas include microbial-immune interactions, with projects on mycobiota dynamics and therapeutic interventions for inflammation-driven diseases.