Rebecca Eells, Phd Email & Phone Number

Greater Pittsburgh Area

My research is focused on membrane-protein interactions. Membrane proteins play an important role in almost all cellular processes, but their complexity often precludes direct study by more traditional structural/biophysical methods. To study these proteins, and their lipid interactions, we use a model membrane system that mimics the fluid environment of the cell. Binding is studied using surface plasmon resonance, which allows use to determine equilibrium dissociation constants and surface coverage. Neutron reflection is then used to probe structure at the membrane interface. The goal is to obtain quantitative information on the binding of proteins to membranes of varying composition, as well as to characterize the molecular-level structure of these proteins on/in their target membrane(s).

Phd, Molecular Biophysics And Structural Biology

Bachelor'S Degree, Physics