Joshua Leonard
Joshua Leonard’s research group engineers novel biological systems that perform customized, sophisticated functions for applications in biotechnology and medicine. Using the tools of mammalian synthetic biology, biomolecular engineering, and systems biology, the group develops technologies including programmable cell-based “devices” that probe and modulate immune responses in a patient- and disease-specific fashion. Applications include new treatments for cancer, programmable smart vaccines, and new gene therapy platforms. The Leonard group is advancing the frontiers of design-based medicine to address unmet medical needs and improve both quantity and quality of life.