The Pulse

Using yeast and bacteria as model systems, the Kuehner lab studies cellular stop signals to understand and control the DNA traffic underlying gene expression. Students in the Kuehner lab, Catalina Lujan-Rodriguez '26 (pictured), Lane Couturier '26 and Max Popoloski '26 use molecular modeling of biological molecules like protein and RNA to better understand the chemical interactions that support their function in normal cells or prevent their function in abnormal cells.

In the Deighan lab, Astrid Esperanza Noriega '26 is researching how within E. coli bacteria, proteins are engineered to be exported outside the cells. Proteins that aggregate can be visualized on agar plates, or using microscopy techniques. The research contributes to the molecular understanding of how proteins fold, or mis-fold, with ramifications for many human diseases.
"This summer, I learned a lot about myself with independence and troubleshooting. I've learned the importance of collaboration and being adaptable in situations where the research may not be going well. [And] I had the opportunity to present my research in front of staff members," Noriega said.