Azarin Research Group

Our group studies regulation of cellular function by the healthy and diseased microenvironment. In particular, we focus on cell-cell interactions, drug delivery, and design of biomaterials for applications in molecular and cellular therapeutics and human disease modeling. Areas of interest include mechanisms of tumor progression and the development of novel treatments for metastatic cancer, molecular transport across physiological barriers, stem cell-derived models of healthy and diseased tissues, and biomanufacturing technologies for emerging cell-based immune therapies. Throughout these efforts, we integrate quantitative analysis of biological processes with tissue engineering approaches and novel biomaterial platforms. Our focus on the microenvironment extends to the scientific development of our trainees. We prioritize fostering a collaborative, equitable, inclusive, and diverse lab environment to inspire and empower all trainees to realize their scientific and professional goals.