Bio-inspiration obtained from some of nature’s greatest success stories guides our research towards development of innovative solutions for important problems in modern medicine. The unifying force behind our research projects is a dedication to improve the health of humans and other living species through a comparative research approach directed by lessons learned from evolution. Studies on the form, function and behavior of the most robust extant animal species provide important information about how biological systems have adapted to ensure survival over time. A comparative research approach facilitates translation of our findings towards the development of new - biologically inspired - immunotherapeutic agents. Most importantly, without the immense biodiversity of this planet, our research would simply not be possible.