overview

• My research focuses on uncovering the mechanisms by which physiologically critical proteins, such as -synuclein (-Syn), amyloid- (A), and transglutaminase 2 go rogue -- or transition from proteins with functional roles to proteins driving neurodegenerative disease pathology. By leveraging molecular and cellular approaches to bridge structural and mechanistic insights with cellular outcomes, my overarching goal is to address long-standing, fundamental questions about the etiology and pathobiology of neurodegenerative disorders. Over the past decade, I have established a multidisciplinary research program that integrates biophysical techniques, kinetic analyses, mass spectrometry, and cellular assays to investigate the structure, dynamics, and functions of allosteric and intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs) implicated in neurodegenerative diseases. My foundational training in classical enzymology and protein chemistry under the mentorship of Dr. Mo Cleland equipped me with a deep understanding of allosteric regulation and enzyme kinetics and the analytical rigor necessary to tackle complex protein systems. Since establishing my independent laboratory at the Brody School of Medicine in 2012, my research has evolved to focus on protein dynamics and protein-protein interactions with a deliberate pivot post-tenure toward high-risk, high-reward projects. This shift has enabled me to explore the intricate relationships between protein structure, function, and dynamics, particularly in IDPs, while also developing proteomic-based platform technologies aimed at advancing diagnostics and therapeutics for neurodegenerative diseases. In 2020, I assumed directorship of the Mass Spectrometry Core Facilities at ECU. This leadership role has expanded my technical expertise and afforded me the opportunity to lead and collaborate on interdisciplinary projects spanning cancer biology, antibiotic resistance, therapeutics, and biologic formulations. Under my oversight, the facility has become a hub for fostering collaboration and supporting innovative research across diverse fields.Despite the demands of this role, I remain deeply committed to my independent research program and to mentoring the next generation of scientists, including undergraduate, graduate, and medical students. I bring a unique and complementary blend of expertise in neurodegenerative disease biology, basic science research, biophysical and protein chemistry, and mass spectrometry,