Ye Zheng

Ye Zheng is a Professor at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies, where he holds the Becky and Ralph S. O'Connor Chair and leads research at the NOMIS Center for Immunobiology and Microbial Pathogenesis. His work focuses on regulatory T cells and immune regulation, with implications for autoimmune diseases and cancer.

• BS in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Peking University
• PhD, Columbia University
• Postdoctoral Fellow, University of Washington
• Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center Research Scholar
• Cancer Research Institute Postdoctoral Fellowship

Dr. Zheng's research centers on the molecular and genetic regulation of regulatory T (Treg) cells, particularly the role of the Foxp3 protein in immune homeostasis. His lab investigates how Treg cells maintain their identity and function, and how nuclear hormone receptors modulate T cell differentiation. This work has major implications for treating autoimmune diseases such as type 1 diabetes and multiple sclerosis, as well as for improving cancer immunotherapy and organ transplantation outcomes.

His recent publications span immunology, epigenetics, and metabolism, revealing how chromatin architecture, metabolites like succinate and bile acids, and nuclear receptors such as PPARδ and FXR control immune cell function. His research integrates molecular, genomic, and pharmacological approaches to uncover novel therapeutic targets.

• Rita Allen Foundation Scholar Award (2010–2015)

Dr. Zheng has mentored numerous graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and research staff, many of whom have gone on to academic and industry positions. He has collaborated on major grants, including a $1.5 million award from the Sol Goldman Charitable Trust for multiple sclerosis research. His lab continues to explore the intersection of metabolism and immunity, with a focus on translating findings into clinical applications. He leads the Zheng Lab, which is actively recruiting new members to advance research in immunobiology.