Dr Martin Davey

Supervisor Details

Contact Details

Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick

Scientific Background

Research Interests

The vertebrate immune system has evolved to ensure host survival from pathogenic microbes. The immune system is a highly specialised network of cells, organs, receptors and soluble factors that protects the host from infection and cancer, while also promoting healthy tissues. The adaptive immune system – responsible for generating memory to past infections - has retained a tripartite cellular network of B cells, αβ T-cells and γδ T-cells for ~450 million years of vertebrate evolution.

We know a lot about “conventional” β T-cells, but while “unconventional” γδ Tcells are frequently implicated in anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-parasitic immunity, the mechanisms that this group of immune cells employs to communicate and control these infections is almost completely unclear.

My lab investigates the role of these human γδ T-cells across tissues, life and infections (malaria, tuberculosis and viruses).

Research Groups

Institute of Translational Medicine

Warwick Cancer Research Centre

Biomedical Sciences

Supervision Style

In three words or phrases: Supportive, collaborative and understanding.

Provision of Training

Initial technical training will carried out by core facility staff, lab members and me, to give the student the broadest possible learning base to develop their own technical independence.

Progression Monitoring and Management

Students are guided through projects by presenting data and technical challenges to lab members at bi-weekly informal group meetings, and strategic meetings with me on a monthly basis. Science always comes with challenges, and you will be fully supported to tackle those challenges as they arise.

Communication

I am always contactable via email and don't expect responses out of hours.

Meetings

PhD Students can expect scheduled meetings with me at least once per fortnight. These meetings will be face-to-face. I am usually contactable for an instant response on every working day.

Work Patterns

The timing of work in my lab is completely flexible, and (other than attending pre-arranged meetings) I expect students to manage their own time.

Notice Period for Feedback

Feedback requirements can be discussed at supervision meetings.

MIBTP Project Details

Co-supervisor on a project with Professor Meera Unnikrishnan.