Jim MacDonald

Jim MacDonald is a Staff Scientist at the Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, affiliated with Harvard University.1 He specializes in developing DNA-based molecular devices and is involved in research related to molecular robotics.24

Research Focus

MacDonald's work primarily revolves around:

• DNA-based molecular devices: He contributes to the development of innovative technologies using DNA as a building block for various applications.2
• Molecular robotics: This field involves creating synthetic bioinspired molecules with programmable shape and function, which can lead to new therapeutic approaches.1

Career Highlights

• Current Role: Staff Scientist at the Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering3
• Location: Based in Boston, Massachusetts, United States3
• Research Contributions: MacDonald has been involved in groundbreaking studies, including work on DNA origami-based vaccines for cancer immunotherapy1

Notable Projects

MacDonald was part of a research team that developed DoriVac, a DNA origami vaccine technology. This innovative approach combines nanotechnology with cancer-suppressing immune processes, aiming to create highly effective personalized cancer vaccines.1

Collaborative Work

He collaborates with other prominent researchers at the Wyss Institute, including:

• William Shih, Ph.D., Wyss Core Faculty member
• Yang (Claire) Zeng, M.D., Ph.D., first author on the DoriVac study
• David Mooney, Ph.D., Wyss Founding Core Faculty member

These collaborations are part of the NIH-funded cross-institutional "Immuno-engineering to Improve Immunotherapy" (i3) Center.1

Jim MacDonald's work at the Wyss Institute contributes to the development of cutting-edge biotechnologies with potential applications in personalized medicine and cancer treatment.