Research

Our department's research programs excel in unraveling the mechanistic intricacies of cellular pathways vital to health. We have solidified our reputation in protein homeostasis and plant biology, and we are gaining traction in neuroscience. Employing interdisciplinary methodologies, such as structural, cell, and systems biology, alongside biophysical techniques, has been our cornerstone.

This protein (red) has been glycosolated with glycans (blue and green).

Protein Homeostasis and Associated Diseases

How proteins are made, delivered to proper cellular location, and folded into functional three-dimensional structures and multi-protein complexes and regulated within cells; how defects in these processes lead to disease.

Photo of a rack of plants in the lab

Plant and Environmental Interactions; Mechanisms of Cellular Signal Transduction

How plants, microbes, and the environment interact: plants and nitrogen-fixing bacteria, plants and fungal pathogens, plants and heat stress, and plant natural products that have useful agriculture or biotechnological applications including pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, flavors and fragrances. 

Cortical brain organoid from patient derived iPSC cells, green and purple on a black background

Molecular Mechanisms Underlying Neurodevelopmental and Neurodegenerative Diseases

How signaling and metabolic networks are integrated and regulated to allow for proper cellular function and organismal development.

Ludmila Tyler high-fives a graduating senior wearing their cap and gown, both smiling at the camera

Scholarship of Teaching and Learning

How to develop and implement pedagogical best practices to improve learning outcomes for students in STEM.