معرفی
John F. Brooks II is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Molecular Biology at Princeton University, where he leads the Brooks Lab. His research focuses on the circadian regulation of host-microbe dynamics, particularly how the circadian clock interfaces with the immune system to maintain gut microbiome harmony.
Education:
- Ph.D., Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Walter S. and Lucienne Driskill Graduate Training Program in Life Sciences
- B.S., University of Michigan, Microbiology
Research Interests:
Dr. Brooks investigates how the circadian clock controls the rhythmic secretion of antimicrobial proteins (AMPs) in the small intestine and how persistent infections override these rhythms to sustain AMP production. His work integrates cell and molecular immunology, mouse genetics, and genomics to uncover mechanisms of circadian-immune crosstalk. This research has broad implications for disorders linked to circadian disruption, including obesity, diabetes, and chronic gut inflammation.
Recent Publication Trends:
His recent publications emphasize the coordination between microbial signals and host circadian rhythms in regulating innate immunity. Key themes include diurnal patterns in immune function, microbiota-driven immune modulation, and the physiological consequences of circadian misalignment in infection and disease.
Scientific Awards:
- Pew Scholar in the Biomedical Sciences (2024)
Advising and Grants:
Dr. Brooks mentors graduate students and postdoctoral researchers, including Talia Akoh-Arrey and Urbashi Basu. His lab has received significant funding, notably the Pew Biomedical Scholars Award, supporting innovative research at the intersection of immunology, microbiology, and chronobiology.
Labs and Teams:
The Brooks Lab at Princeton employs interdisciplinary approaches to study host-microbe interactions. The team collaborates with experts in immunology and circadian biology, including Lora Hooper and Joseph Takahashi, to advance understanding of temporal regulation in immunity.
