Peter J Cavnar

Dr. Peter J Cavnar serves as Associate Professor, Interim Physics Department Chair, and Biology Department Chair at the University of West Florida's Hal Marcus College of Science and Engineering. His research investigates fundamental cell biology processes and their role in disease pathogenesis through neutrophil models and marine organisms.

His educational background includes:

• Bachelor of Science in Human Biology from Florida State University (1997-2001)
• Doctor of Philosophy in Cell Biology from Florida State University (2002-2008)
• Four-year Postdoctoral Appointment at University of Wisconsin-Madison in Medical Microbiology and Immunology

Dr. Cavnar's research spans cellular mechanisms with emphasis on:

• Cell motility/adhesion defects in severe congenital neutropenia (HAX1 gene)
• Apoptosis regulation in immunology-related diseases
• Neutrophil-mediated inflammatory responses in arthritis and lupus
• Evolutionary wound healing mechanisms using comb jellies (Ctenophores)
• Cancer metastasis and embryonic development signaling pathways

His work integrates cell biology, immunology, and marine models to address disease pathogenesis. Dr. Cavnar has received recognition for:

• Shared patent for microfluidics-based cell biology research

His publications appear in high-impact journals including Journal of Cellular Biology and Journal of Biological Chemistry. Teaching responsibilities include Cell Biology, General Biology, Zoology, and Biochemistry. Laboratory research utilizes neutrophil cell lines and comb jelly models to investigate innate immunity and regenerative processes.