MBoC Early Career Paper Award

This webinar will be moderated by our Editor-in-Chief Matthew Welch and will feature 4 lighting talks highlighting new research and methodologies published in the Molecular Biology of the Cell (MBoC).

In this webinar, you will learn about cutting-edge research from our outstanding early career researchers.

Speakers:

Alejandro Melero, Postdoc, Achucarro Basque Center for Neuroscience

Alejandro Melero is a cell biologist specialized in membrane trafficking and advanced microscopy techniques. Their PhD and postdoctoral stages, have focused on understanding the mechanisms of membrane remodeling involved in vesicle formation and endosome ultrastructure. Alejandro is skilled in light and electron microscopy, in vitro reconstitution methods and lipidomics. They are intrigued by investigating the complexities of neurodegenerative diseases at subcellular level.

 

Luis Bonet-Ponce, Postdoc, NIH

Luis Bonet-Ponce is a cell biologist with a keen interest in investigating the role of lysosomal biology in neurodegeneration, specifically in relation to Parkinson’s disease. Their research encompasses a comprehensive range of cellular and biochemical techniques, as well as cutting-edge imaging and proteomic strategies. By delving into disease-relevant pathways, Luis’ goal is to unravel the intricate mechanisms underlying neurodegeneration and to identify novel therapeutic opportunities.

 

Hongjiang Si, Postdoc, Baylor College of Medicine

As a research scientist, Hongjiang’s primary area of interest lies in investigating the molecular mechanisms underlying breast cancer metastasis. Their research is centered around exploring the functional significance of Wnt signaling in this complex process, employing state-of-the-art molecular and cellular biological techniques both in vivo and in vitro. The ultimate objective of Hongjiang’s work is to gain insights into novel molecular pathways, thereby identifying potential therapeutic targets that could pave the way for developing innovative treatment strategies.

 

Reuben Philip, Graduate Student, University of Toronto

As a member of the Harrison lab, Reuben’s research focuses on exploring the significance of cytoskeletal formation and function within specialized differentiated cell types. Recently, our study centered on investigating the role of the centrosomes in osteoclasts, which are bone-resorbing cells. We uncover that in the unique context of osteoclasts forming through cell-to-cell fusion, the donated centrosomes do not contribute to spindle formation for cell division. Instead, they aggregate to form large clusters important for osteoclast-specific functions. By delving into the mechanisms essential for bone resorption, our ultimate goal is to gain insights into the processes underlying bone-wasting diseases like osteoporosis.

 

Moderator:

 

Matthew Welch, Editor-in-Chief, University of California, Berkeley

Professor and Co-Chair, Department of Molecular & Cell Biology