Dr. Candice Quin is a Senior Lecturer in Immunology and Microbiology, within the School of Biological Sciences. 

Candice completed her PhD in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the University of British Columbia under the supervision of Dr. Deanna Gibson. Her doctoral research investigated how early-life environmental exposures, particularly diet, shape aging trajectories and influence systemic inflammation later in life through interactions with the gut microbiome. This work provided important insights into how dietary composition, probiotics, and lifestyle factors shape inflammatory responses both directly and indirectly through modulation of the gut microbiome.

Following her PhD, Dr. Quin joined Dr. Dawn Bowdish's laboratory at McMaster University as a postdoctoral fellow, where she investigated fundamental questions in aging immunology. Her research explored how the aging bone marrow microenvironment influences haematopoiesis and the epigenetic reprogramming of monocytes, the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying age-related impairment of anti-pneumococcal immunity, and the contribution of chronic inflammation to immunosenescence.

Drawing on these experiences, Dr. Quin's research programme at VUW investigates how the gut microbiome regulates haematopoiesis, immune function, and epigenomic programming to influence healthy aging and the development of age-related diseases. Her lab aims to identify microbiome-based mechanisms and interventions that promote resilience and improve health across the lifespan. 

Our work is innovative and inclusive. We welcome trainees from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences and believe that diversity brings new perspectives and ultimately, better science.