Dr Tovah Shaw
Lecturer in Immunology
- Institute of Immunology & Infection Research
- School of Biological Sciences
Contact details
- Email: Tovah.Shaw@ed.ac.uk
Address
- Street
-
Ashworth Labs
The King's Buildings
Charlotte Auerbach Road - City
- Edinburgh
- Post code
- EH9 3FL
Background
After receiving my undergraduate degree in Natural Sciences from the University of Cambridge, I spent 3 years conducting laboratory-based research in biopharmaceutical and health service settings. During this time, I gained a Postgraduate Certificate in Medical Immunology from the University of London, King's College. In 2015, I gained my PhD in Immunology, in the laboratory of Dr Kevin Couper, from the University of Manchester. After my PhD, I undertook a postdoctoral position in the laboratory of Dr John Grainger, where I developed interest and expertise in macrophage biology and mucosal immunology. In 2019 I started a BBSRC Discovery Fellowship, facilitating my transition to independence, and in 2021 I moved to the University of Edinburgh to establish my own research group.
Qualifications
PhD, Immunology, University of Manchester
Postgraduate Certificate, Medical Immunology, University of London, King's College
Natural Sciences, BA (Hons), University of Cambridge
Responsibilities & affiliations
Co-Secretary of the Edinburgh Immunology Group
Research summary
Gut resident macrophages perform a variety of roles that support intestinal function and protect it from infections. My lab is interested in understanding the different types of macrophages that exist in the gut and the specialised functions they perform. A better understanding of how and when macrophage functions can be manipulated could lead to the development of evidence-based therapies that promote the maintenance and restoration of gut health. We use a variety of in vivo models to study the role of macrophages in inflammatory bowel disease, food allergy, and parasitic and bacterial infections.