To enhance antigen presentation and CD4 T-cell priming, this project aims to engineer transferrin-receptor (TfR) lysosome-targeting chimeras that deliver the M. tuberculosis immunogen Ag85B into the endo-lysosomal pathway. Constructs will fuse EsxG to either a TfR-binding module or a designed EndoTag, then be benchmarked against EsxG alone for lysosomal trafficking and MHC-II presentation. This work aims to establish a modular strategy for programming immunogen trafficking in immune cells and a next-gen TB vaccine platform.

I am joining SuperUROP for the mentored research experience paired with training in communication. My work in the Bryson lab for the past two years, as well as my industry R&D internship, has prepared me for this project. I hope to deepen my abilities as a scientist in experimental design, writing, and presentation. I’m excited to translate immune engineering ideas into a testable vaccine strategy.