September 16-20, 2024, is National Postdoc Appreciation Week. Since 2009, the National Postdoctoral Association (NPA) has sponsored this annual celebration to recognize the significant contributions that postdoctoral scholars make to research and scientific discovery. Check out the NPA website to view the virtual and in-person events being held this week.
This week, BPS will be highlighting postdoc members on the blog. Today, read about Claire Stewart, Stanford University.
What is your current position?
Postdoctoral Scholar at Stanford University in the Sharaf Lab
Please share a brief description of your research:
In the Sharaf Lab, we focus on characterizing bacterial lipoproteins, specifically from the Lyme disease causing spirochete, Borrelia burgdorferi. With over 80 surface-exposed lipoproteins and no lipopolysaccharides, B. burgdorferi has a unique cellular envelope. Unfortunately, very few of these lipoproteins have been characterized. I focus on studying lipoproteins that could potentially be involved in nutrient and lipid transport since B. burgdorferi lack machinery needed to produce fatty acids, amino acids, and nucleotides.
What are a few potential applications of your research?
Lyme disease is one of the most common vector-borne illnesses and my work will set the groundwork for combating it. Identified surfaces lipoproteins can be used for new diagnostics, therapeutics, or vaccines.
How might your research be relevant to those who are not working in your specific field?
Research on bacterial lipoproteins provides a fundamental understanding of bacterial nutrient acquisition and lipid homeostasis, which could be useful for discovering potential therapeutic targets. This work will also offers insight into the cellular envelope composition of other spirochetes, such as Treponema pallidum, which cause syphilis, and Leptospira interrogans, which causes leptospirosis.
What is your favorite thing about biophysics?
My favorite thing about biophysics is the study of the dynamic nature of molecules and systems! I love how we use the combination of physics, math, and chemistry to understand the dynamics of biological processes.
What do you like to do outside of work?
Outside of work I enjoy reading, listening to a variety of music, and perfecting my fiber art skills from crocheting to knitting.
Do you have a website where our readers can view your recent research and follow your career? Or want to share professional social media handles?
https://cjstewphd.weebly.com/