Brian Evavold

Brian Evavold is a Professor of Microbiology and Immunology at the University of Utah. His research focuses on T cell antigen recognition, specifically how T cell receptor (TCR) affinity for peptide-MHC complexes determines T cell activation, phenotype, and outcomes in autoimmune diseases and infections. He utilizes advanced techniques such as the Micropipette assay and Biomembrane Force Probe (BFP) to study single-bond TCR-pMHC interactions under mechanical forces.

• Education: B.A. from St. Olaf College, Ph.D. from the University of Chicago.

His work bridges mechanobiology and immunology, investigating how physical forces modulate TCR signaling and immune responses. Key areas include autoimmune neurology (e.g., experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis), tumor immunology, and dietary influences on T cell function.

Recent publications highlight his contributions to understanding TCR-pMHC bond lifetimes, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) design, and the role of low-affinity T cells in diseases like cerebral malaria and type 1 diabetes. Current research explores therapeutic strategies for autoimmune disorders using bispecific engagers and mechanotransduction insights.