I am a postdoc in Linda Sandblads lab. I use Cryo-EM techniques to explore the architecture of the extracellular matrix surrounding mammalian egg cells.
As a master's student I specialized in Biotechnology and Bioinformatics (La Trobe University, Australia) with a keen interest in proteins. During my PhD (Biochemistry from La Trobe University, Australia), I used X-ray crystallography to examine the structures of B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) proteins found in large viruses like the African Swine Fever Virus and Grouper Iridovirus and how these viruses utilize Bcl-2 proteins to subvert the host defense system. Towards the end of my PhD, I became intrigued by Cryo-Electron Microscopy (Cryo-EM) techniques.
I am a postdoctoral scientist in Linda Sandblad’s lab since September 2021. My research project is also collaborated with Luca Jovine’s Laboratory at Karolinska Institute. I use Cryo-EM techniques, including single-particle analysis, Cryo-Focused Ion Beam, and Cryo-Electron Tomography, to explore the architecture of the extracellular matrix surrounding mammalian egg cells. One of the key components of this matrix is a protein called Zona Pellucida. My current research question focuses on understanding how this protein coat around the Oocyte prevents the occurrence of polyspermy.