Welcome Dr. Alexa Weingarden to the Center for Immunology
The Center for Immunology is excited to welcome back Dr. Alexa Weingarden as one of our newest faculty members.
Dr. Alexa Weingarden, a former MD/PhD student from the University of Minnesota’s Medical Scientist Training Program, has joined the Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition as a physician-scientist with a focus on the mucosal immunology of small bowel inflammatory disorders, particularly celiac disease, and the role of intestinal bacteria in disease development.
Dr. Weingarden’s passion for science began during her undergraduate studies, where she developed an interest in microbial ecology. This passion led her to pursue an MD/PhD at the University of Minnesota, where she researched fecal microbiota transplantation for recurrent Clostridium difficile infection under the mentorship of Dr. Alexander Khoruts and Dr. Michael Sadowsky. Her exposure to diverse immunology topics during her graduate work in the MICaB PhD program further fueled her enthusiasm and laid the groundwork for her career in immunology. Following her graduate studies, Dr. Weingarden completed her internship and residency in Internal Medicine at Stanford University and a fellowship in Gastroenterology & Hepatology at the same institution, where she worked with Dr. Michael Fischbach. Her postdoctoral research focused on the role of gut microbes in food allergies and engineering commensal bacteria to drive antigen-specific T-cell responses.
At the Center for Immunology, Dr. Weingarden’s lab will concentrate on gliadin-specific T cell responses in celiac disease and their interaction with gut microbial metabolism. Her research promises to advance our understanding of celiac disease and improve therapeutic approaches.
Dr. Weingarden is an active member of several esteemed organizations, including the American Association of Immunologists, American Gastroenterological Association, American College of Gastroenterology, American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, Society for Mucosal Immunology, and Society for the Study of Celiac Disease. Her involvement in these professional communities reflects her commitment to
advancing the field. Despite being in the early stages of her career, she has faced and overcome common challenges for women in science, such as skepticism about her dedication compared to male colleagues. Dr. Weingarden has adeptly navigated these challenges through strategic networking and assertiveness, demonstrating her resilience and commitment to her research and the broader scientific community.
As a role model, Dr. Weingarden emphasizes the importance of a supportive network for aspiring female researchers. She advises seeking mentors and communities dedicated to one’s success and finding support beyond immediate surroundings. Reflecting on gender equality in science, she notes progress but calls for continued efforts to enhance representation and support for women, advocating for greater involvement of male allies and awareness of internal biases.
Dr. Weingarden’s journey exemplifies passion, perseverance, and advocacy. We look forward to the innovative research and collaborative opportunities she will bring to the Center for Immunology.
Stop by her current lab space in 3-260 WMBB and say "Hi".
