
Carbone Lab
Harnessing Dendritic Cells to Power Cancer Immunity
The Carbone Lab investigates the master role of dendritic cells (DCs) in orchestrating immune responses, with a focus on their impact in cancer immunotherapy. By studying how DCs recruit and activate other immune cells within the tumor microenvironment, we aim to uncover novel mechanisms that can enhance anti-tumor immunity. Using innovative tools like the STAMP model for high-throughput, non-invasive monitoring of immune interactions, our research strives to develop more effective immunotherapies that harness the full potential of the immune system to fight cancer.

Kate Carbone, PhD
Kate earned her PhD from the University of California, San Francisco, where she trained with Dr. Ronald Vale, studying the cell biology of T cell receptor triggering using microscopy-based in vitro systems. She completed her postdoctoral training at Genentech under the mentorship of Dr. Ira Mellman and Dr. Christine Moussion, where she developed novel in vivo microscopy approaches to non-invasively monitor immune cell interactions within tumors.
In 2025, Kate joined Seattle Children’s Research Institute, where she is an assistant professor at the Center for Immunity and Immunotherapies (CIIT). She is affiliated with the Fred Hutch/University of Washington/Seattle Children’s Cancer Consortium. Her research investigates the dynamic roles of dendritic cells in shaping tumor immunotypes and therapeutic outcomes. Using advanced imaging models, she aims to uncover how DCs influence T cell activity and contribute to tumor rejection or progression. Ultimately, she aims to apply these insights to improve cancer immunotherapy strategies and better understand tumor-immune interactions.
-
Kelsey Furiya
Research Scientist
Joined lab in 2025. Research interests: Immunology, virology, cancer biology, bioinformatics. Education: BS, Cellular and Molecular Biology, Seattle Pacific University. [email protected].
-
Shaina Hall
Research Scientist
Joined lab in 2025. Research interests: Differential gene expression and its effect on the immune response. Education: BS, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of California, Davis; MS, Biology, Tufts University. [email protected].
Join the Carbone Lab
In the Carbone Lab, we focus on groundbreaking tumor immunology research, with a particular emphasis on dendritic cells and their role in cancer. We are committed to fostering an environment where rigorous scientific inquiry, collaboration and professional growth are prioritized.
We believe in developing independent, creative researchers who are driven by curiosity and scientific rigor. In our lab, you will:
- Develop Technical Skills: Gain hands-on experience with advanced techniques including flow cytometry for immune profiling, live imaging of tumor-immune interactions and computational approaches for processing and analyzing complex data.
- Pursue Independent Projects: Design and execute your own research projects while receiving guidance to help you think critically and push the boundaries of science.
- Engage in Professional Growth: Present your work, publish and mentor junior lab members, all while contributing to the scientific community.
- Collaborate and Innovate: Be part of a team that values open communication, mutual support and innovation.
Our goal is to support your growth as both a scientist and a professional, ensuring you are well-prepared for the next steps in your career.
We are seeking driven individuals ready to contribute to high-impact research. If you are interested, please contact Kate with your CV and a brief summary of your research interests.