Dear CIMI Members,
The CIMI 2026 Annual Mini-Symposium, held on April 10, boasted over 70 attendees throughout the event, making for a successful day of scientific exchange. This year’s program highlighted the depth and interdisciplinary strength of our research community, while emphasizing the importance of collaboration across fields.
We were especially honored to host our keynote speaker, Dr. Jakob von Moltke, from the University of Washington, who opened the scientific sessions with his talk, “From Tuft cells to Mast Cells: epithelial–immune circuits in the intestine.” His presentation offered a compelling look at epithelial–immune communication and its broader implications.
The symposium also featured outstanding presentations from both visiting and CIMI-affiliated speakers:
- Dr. Nadeem Khan (UF College of Dentistry, Oral Biology) – “Immune Drivers of Influenza Pathology.”
- Dr. Xingmin Sun (USF Morsani College of Medicine, Molecular Medicine) – “Vaccine development against Clostridioides difficile infection.”
- Dr. Laura Solt (UF Scripps Institute) – “Regulation of TH17-mediated intestinal inflammation by the REV-ERB nuclear receptors.”
- Dr. Stephanie Karst (UF College of Medicine, Molecular Genetics & Microbiology) – “Maternal bile acids program neonatal virus susceptibility and offspring growth.”
- Dr. Julie Moore (UF College of Veterinary Medicine, Infectious Disease & Immunology) – “Stress at the Interface: Lipidomics of the Malaria-Infected Placenta.”
- Dr. Christian Jobin (UF College of Medicine, Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition) – “Complex interaction between host and microbial-derived genotoxins in colorectal cancer.”
Together, these talks spanned fundamental immunology, host–microbe interactions, infectious disease, and translational vaccine research, reflecting the broad impact of CIMI-supported science. Notably, our speakers came from diverse colleges and departments, underscoring the expansive reach of CIMI and mucosal immunology as a field.
Beyond the formal presentations, the symposium fostered meaningful discussion, questions, and connections throughout the day. We are proud of the environment that CIMI fosters, emphasizing student learning and faculty mentorship. The engagement from attendees—faculty, trainees, and staff—was a critical part of what made this event so impactful.
We extend our sincere thanks to all speakers, visiting guests, CIMI members, and attendees. Your participation, curiosity, and willingness to engage are what drive the success of this symposium and strengthen our research community. Events like this are only possible because of your continued contributions and commitment.
We look forward to building this momentum in the year ahead.