The Mavers Lab focuses on immune regulation of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), a debilitating and potentially fatal complication of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) which arises from an allogeneic reaction of donor T cells to damaged host tissues. HSCT can cure high-risk malignancies and other diseases of the blood and bone marrow, yet success is limited as many patients develop this devastating complication.

We aim to elucidate the biological mechanisms underlying both immune tolerance and the graft-versus-tumor (GVT) effect in HSCT. We have the further objective to develop immunoregulatory cell therapies for GVHD suppression and to enhance the efficacy of cancer targeting cellular therapies. In particular, we are focusing on (i) understanding invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cell subset biology and mechanisms driving different functions between subsets, (ii) rational engineering to enhance iNKT cell function, and (iii) optimizing ex vivo protocols for developing iNKT cells into a clinically viable cell therapy product. We incorporate aspects of both basic and translational research to facilitate our long-term goal of developing interventions to modulate the immune environment to prevent or treat GVHD and enhance GVT.

My mentoring approach involves helping my mentees to identify their values, align their vision with their values, and then set SMART goals to achieve their vision. This is useful in career development as well as in setting quarterly and annual goals for laboratory work, and it is paramount to have periodic assessments to measure progress. Embodying a growth mindset and cultivating this in trainees is also critical to success. I strive to empower my mentees to arrive at solutions themselves by asking serial open-ended questions to identify the root of the challenge they are facing, serving them to become better decision-makers and problem-solvers in the long term.

I believe faculty have the responsibility to not only mentor but also sponsor students and trainees in their laboratory. Further, I think it is important to adapt one’s mentoring style to meet the changing needs of the mentee over time. Clear evidence shows that institutionalized racism, misogyny, homophobia, classism, ableism and other divisive stances can have strong impacts on educational experiences. Therefore, it is imperative to create a supportive and safe environment for all lab members, and this begins with the principal investigator.

I have completed the DBBS-recommended online mentor training through the University of Minnesota’s Clinical and Translational Science Institute (CTSI).