Clinical & Research Immunology Lab
Leading Discovery in Pediatric Immunology
The Clinical Immunology & Research Lab at Nemours Children’s in Delaware Valley advances pediatric care through leading-edge diagnostic testing and research. Our CLIA-certified laboratory brings research discovery and clinical practice to give kids the best possible care.
Working closely with physicians across multiple specialties, our team leads critical research in cytokines and autoimmune disorders while providing essential diagnostic support. Through our advanced technologies including Luminex® multiplexing, ELISA and immunofluorescence microscopy, we help diagnose and monitor conditions like lupus, autoimmune hepatitis and rheumatoid arthritis.
We’re part of the Center for Clinical Diagnostics and collaborations across departments drive innovation in pediatric immunology research, advancing treatments for future generations.
Our Leadership
Paul T. Fawcett, PhD
Principal Scientist
Director, Center for Clinical Diagnostics
LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR RESEARCH
- Focus Areas
- Lab Capabilities
- Impact & Recognition
Our Areas of Focus
Decoding Cell Communication Through Cytokines
Understanding how these small proteins enable cellular communication and regulate immune responses, providing insights into disease mechanisms and potential treatments.
Unraveling Autoimmune Mechanisms
Investigating the underlying causes and progression of pediatric autoimmune conditions to develop more effective diagnostic tools and therapies.
Mapping Inflammatory Pathways
Studying how inflammatory responses contribute to various diseases and identifying potential intervention points.
Transforming Lab Insights into Patient Care
Bridging laboratory discoveries with clinical applications to improve patient care and treatment outcomes.
Accreditations & Certifications
We maintain rigorous quality standards through:
- CLIA accreditation for high-complexity testing
- Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) compliance
- FDA Good Clinical Practice trained staff
- Regular CAP proficiency testing
- Comprehensive quality control protocols
Key Equipment
Our state-of-the-art facility features:
- Luminex® multiplexing technology
- Advanced ELISA plate readers
- Immunofluorescence microscopy suite
- Ultra-low temperature storage systems
- Specialized sample processing equipment
Notable Impacts
Our work has played a crucial role in diagnosing and monitoring autoimmune and inflammatory conditions in children. We have helped by:
- First Delaware Valley lab to develop validated pediatric Lyme disease testing
- Optimization of pediatric-specific autoimmune antibody test ranges
- Multiple patents advancing immunology diagnostics
- Recognition as leaders in pediatric immunology research
Recognition & Awards
Fueled by the desire to make a difference in children’s health, team accolades include:
Paul T. Fawcett, PhD
- 2020 Researcher of the Year, Nemours Children’s Health
- Distinguished Alumnus Award, Department of Bio-Science, University Massachusetts Lowell
- Member, Committee of Experts, General Toxicology & Biocompatibility, United States
- Pharmacopeia (Two 5-Year Appointments)
- Member, Data Safety Monitoring Board Lyme Vaccine Trial (Pasture Connaught)
- Chair, State of Delaware Task Force on Lyme Disease
Research in Context
Our labs contribute to research that informs pediatric care, working in alignment with research centers and focused areas of scientific study at Nemours.
Allergy & Immunology
CLINICAL CARE
Pediatric allergy and immunology care, including asthma and allergy testing, available at Nemours locations in the Delaware Valley and Florida.
Center for Clinical Diagnostics
DELAWARE VALLEY
We provide diagnostic testing services that support clinicians and researchers in diagnosing and monitoring pediatric diseases more effectively.
Immunology Research
RESEARCH AREA
We investigate immune system function in children to advance understanding of autoimmune disease, allergy, immunodeficiency, and immunotherapy.
Infectious Diseases
CLINICAL CARE
Specialized care for complex pediatric infections provided by Nemours infectious disease experts across hospital and specialty locations.
Rheumatology
CLINICAL CARE
Pediatric specialists at Nemours diagnose and treat joint, muscle, and bone diseases that can cause pain, swelling, stiffness, and deformity.