The CEIRR Network proudly spotlights James Ferguson, Staff Scientist in Dr. Andrew Ward’s Laboratory at Scripps Research Institute, affiliated with The University of Pennsylvania CEIRR (Penn-CEIRR). Ferguson was awarded “Outstanding Poster” in Poster Session A of the CEIRR Annual Network Meeting 2024 for his poster titled “Structural Characterization of Ferret Antibody Responses to Influenza Infection and Vaccine-Induced Immunofocusing.”

Ferguson stated that he is motivated to study this topic because “structural biology has captivated [him] from the moment [he] started studying biochemistry” and that “being able to visualize how an antibody is binding to its target just adds an extra level of intuition about what is going on with the immune system.” The ultimate goal of his research is to use ferrets – which he states are “crucial yet so underexplored at the structural level” – to better elucidate the antigenic evolution of seasonal influenza because of the similarity to humans in their clinical responses.

In addition to giving insight into his research and award-winning poster, Ferguson also spoke to his appreciation of the collaborative nature of the CEIRR Network, stating that “the CEIRR Program is fantastic because it brings together a community of passionate scientists to collaborate, share resources, and exchange knowledge seamlessly.” He also credited the Program for bringing together researchers with different backgrounds and levels of training to develop innovative solutions to solve complex problems.

The iDPCC also gained more insight into Ferguson himself through a series of thought-provoking questions:

1. Who/what inspired you to go into science in general?

A. My high school teachers inspired me to go into science. My biology teacher ran a farmstead, my physics teacher was previously an engineer, and my chemistry teacher had worked in industry. All of them in their own way made me see that science can move beyond the textbook and make a tangible impact in the real world that can help people.

2. What is one thing on your bucket list?

A. Watching the Northern lights in a hot spring in Iceland.

3. What is your favorite lab technique?

A. My favorite technique is building and implementing AI models for immune data analysis. It’s not just about crunching numbers; it’s about uncovering patterns that redefine our understanding of the immune system.

4. What are your plans following your training?

A. I am excited to dive into the world of structure-guided vaccine design. Whether that’s in an academic or industrial position, I think protein design has become such a fascinating and useful toolkit for biochemists, and I am curious to see what impact it will have in the world of vaccinology.

5. Do you have advice for other trainees?

A. Find mentors and colleagues who give fair and honest feedback, who will empower you, and who you enjoy working with.

6. What is your favorite mundane lab chore?

A. Topping up liquid nitrogen dewars. Will liquid nitrogen ever not be fun?

7. Do you have any hobbies or special interests that you'd like to share?

A. I love to garden, surf, and hike, and I volunteer at the climate activist group SD350.