Peter Cavnar

Peter Cavnar is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biology at the University of West Florida, affiliated with the Hal Marcus College of Science and Engineering. He serves as the Interim Chair of the Physics Department and Associate Dean of HMCSE. His academic and research work is centered on cell biology, immunology, and molecular mechanisms of disease.

• Ph.D. in Biological Sciences – Cell & Molecular Biology, Florida State University
• B.S. in Biological Sciences, Florida State University
• Postdoctoral Training, Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Wisconsin–Madison

Dr. Cavnar's research focuses on fundamental cellular processes such as cell motility, adhesion, cytoskeletal dynamics, and cell death, with direct relevance to immunological diseases like severe congenital neutropenia (SCN) and inflammatory disorders including arthritis and lupus. He investigates how defects in proteins like HAX1 disrupt neutrophil function, using the PLB-985 cell line as a model. Additionally, he explores the evolutionary origins of wound healing and regeneration through studies on marine organisms, particularly comb jellies (Ctenophores).

His recent publications span journals such as the Journal of Biological Chemistry and Biomedical Microdevices, reflecting interdisciplinary work combining cell biology, bioengineering, and immunology. Key themes across his research include neutrophil migration, microfluidic platforms for cell assays, actin regulation, and antibody validation. This body of work highlights a strong emphasis on both basic science and translational applications.

Dr. Cavnar has co-authored a patent utilizing microfluidics for cell biology studies, underscoring innovation in experimental methodology. While no formal scientific awards are listed, his leadership roles and sustained research output indicate significant scholarly impact. He teaches courses including Cell Biology, Biochemistry, General Biology, and Zoology, contributing extensively to undergraduate and graduate education.

He advises students and mentors research, though specific advisees are not named. His lab engages in collaborative science, often working with interdisciplinary teams involving bioengineers and immunologists. Current projects involve developing novel model systems and refining tools for studying immune cell behavior in controlled environments.