Cory Ayres

Cory Ayres is an Assistant Research Professor in the Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry at the University of Notre Dame, where he conducts research at the intersection of biochemistry, biophysics, and immunology. His work focuses on the molecular mechanisms underlying T cell receptor recognition of peptide-MHC complexes, with implications for cancer immunotherapy and immune engineering.

Research Interests: Dr. Ayres investigates the dynamic and energetic landscapes of protein interactions in cellular immunity. His research spans molecular dynamics of MHC molecules, allosteric signaling in TCRs, and the biophysical determinants of neoantigen recognition. He employs structural biology, thermodynamics, and biochemical assays to dissect how subtle molecular changes influence immune responses.

Publication Trends: His recent publications reveal a consistent focus on the role of allostery, conformational dynamics, and physical properties in T cell activation. Work frequently appears in top journals such as Nature Communications and PNAS, highlighting contributions to understanding immune recognition at the atomic level, particularly in cancer neoepitope discrimination and receptor engineering.

Advising and Grants: While no formal students are listed, his leadership in multiple high-impact publications suggests active mentorship within the research group of Professor Brian M. Baker. Though specific grants are not mentioned, his sustained research output implies ongoing external funding support in immunology and biophysics.

Labs and Teams: Dr. Ayres is part of the Baker Lab at the University of Notre Dame, a research group dedicated to understanding the structural and physical basis of immune recognition. The lab combines computational modeling, biophysical experiments, and immunological assays to advance cancer immunotherapy and protein engineering.