Jaime Martinez Grundman, PhD - Postdoctoral fellow

I am motivated to understand the mechanisms that underlie protein function, specifically substrate specificity and enzyme evolution. My current research explores the world of plant secondary metabolism (1) to expand a structural and mechanistic understanding of neofunctionalized enzymes and (2) to shed light in biosynthetic pathways of allelochemicals and other ecologically important compounds. Outside lab, I love going on long hikes with my dog, discovering cool art and music, and exploring new parts of Boston with friends.

Fabiola Muro-Villanueva, PhD - Postdoctoral fellow

I am interested in plant specialized metabolism and the role of specialized metabolites in plant biology. My current research project focuses on the biosynthesis and function of medicinal alkaloids. Outside of the lab, I enjoy running, cooking, and trying out new food.

Colin Kim, PhD - Postdoctoral fellow

My research focuses on elucidating the chemistry of various alkaloid scaffolding in the biosynthetic pathway of medicinally valuable plant natural products. I am also interested in studying how plant enzymes acquire new function and developing new tools to engineer better biocatalysts. If I am not in lab, I am playing music, playing pick-up basketball, or running around the Charles River!

Eric Fields - Graduate student

I am interested in the production, evolution, and functions of plant secondary metabolites. The metabolites of most interest to me are those that are functional outside of the plant and could be useful in other contexts like medicine or agriculture. Within the lab I am particularly interested in the lycopodium alkaloids that are produced by club mosses. Outside of lab, I like playing video games, listening to audiobooks, and playing piano.

Juan Orozco - Graduate student

I am originally from Detroit, Michigan, and I have a background in Cellular Biology from the University of Michigan. I’m very interested in exploring enzyme relationships across life and understanding their biochemistry. Previous discoveries in plant enzyme function are informing my work in animal neural systems, where I am working to elucidate non-canonical functions from previously-thought-to-be acatalytic enzymes. Outside of the lab, I take care of an extensive garden of houseplants and a calico cat named Momo. I also like to play videogames, collect tattoos, and write and record music.

Andrea Loya-Castillo - Research Associate I

My research interests broadly lie in the evolutionary relationship between plants and insects at the organismic and molecular level. More specifically, the molecular mechanisms behind the interactions of plant-pollinator relationships. During my free time, I enjoy going mushroom hunting and playing with dogs.

Jazmin Pearson - Undergraduate Researcher

I am an undergraduate at the college studying Molecular & Cellular Biology and Government. My interests are mainly in understanding and synthesizing protein functions as well as the intersection of ethical policy and biotechnological advancements. I am originally from Washington State and enjoy hiking, drawing, reading 18th and 19th century romance novels and watching reality TV with friends.