Research
The broad goal of our research is to understand biological function at a molecular level. Since biological activity is derived from the three-dimensional structure of a system, mechanistic details are often best described in the context of detailed structural information. The basic approach of the lab is to use x-ray crystallography techniques in combination with biochemical analysis to understand the structure and mechanism of proteins and macromolecular assemblies. In other words, our goal is to determine the three-dimensional structures of large biological molecules and use that information to help guide our understanding of how those molecules do what they do. We get to explore a fascinating molecular world and see things that no one has ever seen before.
The lab has a strong interest in protein-nucleic acid interactions. Our current work focuses on characterizing a class of eukaryotic RNA helicases, called Ski2-like RNA helicases. We are also engaged in several collaborative crystallographic projects with other research labs at Utah State University. We are always open to discussing new collaborations, so feel free to contact us if you are considering a crystallographic project.
Click on the links below to learn more...
The lab has a strong interest in protein-nucleic acid interactions. Our current work focuses on characterizing a class of eukaryotic RNA helicases, called Ski2-like RNA helicases. We are also engaged in several collaborative crystallographic projects with other research labs at Utah State University. We are always open to discussing new collaborations, so feel free to contact us if you are considering a crystallographic project.
Click on the links below to learn more...