Dr. Nikolaos Sgourakis

Professor

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Biography

The Sgourakis Lab focuses on the mechanistic molecular immunology that decodes immune function at an atomic level. It investigates dynamic molecular processes that determine immune recognition and signaling, forming long-term memory against viral, tumor, and autoimmune targets. The lab explores the molecular basis of peptide repertoire selection and the display of molecules on Major Histocompatibility Complex. Additionally, it develops CAR-based therapeutics that recognize targets on cell surfaces, which triggers T cell receptor activation at the immunological synapse. The lab seeks to address these questions through a combination of cutting-edge structural biology tools such as Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) Spectroscopy and X-ray crystallography, along with complementary biophysical and biochemical techniques, computational modeling, and functional assays. The Sgourakis Lab's efforts are fueled by close collaboration with a vibrant research community at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and the University of Pennsylvania.

Research Interests

Experience

Principal Investigator

2021-01-01 — Present

Sgourakis Lab • Philadelphia, PA

Leading research in molecular immunology, focusing on immune recognition, and T cell activation mechanisms.

Requirements for University of Pennsylvania

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.6
GRE General
Verbal
Required:162
Quantitative
Required:162
Overall
Required:162
GMAT
Total Score
Required:728
Overall
Required:728
TOEFL
Total
Required:115
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree or equivalent Strong quantitative background
Application Checklist
  • Academic Transcripts
  • Letters of Recommendation (2-3)
  • Resume/CV
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Essays
Specialization Notes

Wharton Doctoral programs cover fields like Finance, Marketing, Management, and Operations, Information and Decisions.