My research focuses on understanding the cytokine and metabolic regulation of regulatory T cells residing in non-lymphoid tissues such as the visceral adipose tissue and skin. I started my lab at Emory University in 2020, right at the beginning of the COVID pandemic. It was difficult but I received a lot of support and help from my mentors and colleagues. Receiving the ICIS-Regeneron new investigator award is a great encouragement for me as a junior PI. I am excited to join the ICIS community to build up new friendships and collaborations. In my spare time, I enjoyed spending time with my family and playing video games.
Please tell us your name, degree, where you currently work, and position.
Chaoran Li, PhD. I am currently an Assistant Professor in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology and the Department of Dermatology at Emory University School of Medicine.
Where did you do your training?
I completed my graduate training in the Immunology program at Duke University under the mentorship of Dr. Qi-Jing Li. I performed my postdoctoral training in the joint laboratory of Drs. Diane Mathis and Christophe Benoist at Harvard Medical School.
Briefly, what is your research about?
Recent studies have identified unique populations of regulatory T cells residing in non-lymphoid tissues that are key for maintaining tissue homeostasis, tissue regeneration, and metabolic health. My research focuses on the regulation of these non-lymphoid tissue Tregs at steady state and investigating how dysregulation of these cells during obesity may promote inflammatory and metabolic diseases.
Tell us your thoughts about ICIS: how has being involved in the Cytokine Society helped your career?
I am relatively new to the ICIS community, but I have always been inspired by the important pioneer work done by ICIS members. This year I was fortunate to receive the ICIS-Regeneron New Investigator award. I hope to use this opportunity to build up further connections and collaborations in the ICIS community.
Are there any particular friendships or collaborations that came specifically out of Cytokines meetings?
This year will be the first time I attend the Cytokine meeting. I look forward to meeting many new friends and establishing new collaborations.
What Cytokines meeting(s) have been your favorites? Tell us about any special memories or anecdotes.
This year’s meeting in Seoul will be my first Cytokine meeting and I am sure that I will love it!
What do you like to do when not in the lab?
I like spending time with my family and friends.
What is the best life/career advice you’ve ever received?
Asking and pursuing important questions, even if they are difficult to address.
What book or TV show are you reading/watching right now that you recommend?
I like the TV series “This Is Us” a lot!
What is your favorite cytokine?
I have to say that it is IL-33 at the moment!
Follow Chaoran on Twitter/X: @ChaoranLiEmory