Proteins determine a cell’s identity, capabilities, and responses. We investigate how selective mRNA translation is regulated in extreme settings to reveal the fundamental principles behind life’s diversity.

We uncover how cells reprogram mRNA translation to decide fate and function under prolonged stress and complex environments.

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We explore how innovations in the core translation machinery enable unusual species-specific adaptations.

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We use viruses as evolutionary snapshots to understand how control of protein synthesis may have shaped the emergence of complex cellular life.

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Building off what we learn from nature, we apply cellular and molecular bioengineering to control protein production and develop new therapies for human disease.