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January 2026
January 2026
Our lab’s mission is to contribute fundamental knowledge about how animal and microbial cells interact on a molecular level to form beneficial partnerships that are transmitted across generations.
To achieve this goal we take an interdisciplinary approach rooted in molecular genetics and genomics, using tractable lab model systems (mostly nematodes, bacteria, and insects).
Our contributions will help reveal how microbiomes form, are maintained, and evolve. Allowing us to better repair and harness partnerships important for human health, agriculture, and ecosystems.
We are located in the Microbiology Department at The University of Tennessee-Knoxville.
📍Ken and Blaire Mossman Building, 1311 Cumberland Ave.
Knoxville is in the eastern-most part of Tennessee, minutes from the beautiful Appalachian Mountains and world famous Smoky Mountain National Park.
We are looking for curious and motivated scientists to join our team starting in January of 2026!
Prospective graduate students interested in the lab are strongly encouraged to apply to the UTK Microbiology or UTK Genome Science & Technology Graduate Programs.
Email Dr. Heppert to express your interest and visit jennyheppert.com to learn more about Dr. Heppert's path in science.