Prof. Joseph Jez, PhD
Research Summary
The Jez lab uses a combination of structural biology, biochemistry, and molecular biology to explore biochemical pathways in plants and microbes. Understanding how Nature's molecular machinery works can help engineering plants and microbes to address agricultural and environmental problems. Current projects examine the molecular controls in plant hormone responses, biosynthetic pathways in plants and microbes that make interesting natural products, and new anti-parasitic targets.
“Undergraduate research brings science to life and enables students to ask questions, create new knowledge, learn from mistakes, and grow as scholars. And that journey begins with a first lab experience and having a nurturing community of mentors and peers - something Dr. Beckman understood very well! The Beckman Scholar Program is a powerful spark to launch the next generation of diverse scientists, and it is an honor to serve that vision as a member of the BSP's Executive Committee.