Our Philosophy

Non-Model & Non-Canonical

We're motivated by what the field has left unexplored: biochemistry that falls outside the narrow set of organisms and amino acids typically studied. Non-model organisms let us draw on the metabolic diversity nature has evolved across the tree of life. Non-canonical amino acids let us draw on chemistries beyond the traditional twenty encoded by biology's genetic alphabet. Together, they extend protein engineering past its conventional limits, form the foundations for novel biotechnologies. We also just think they are really cool.

Fig. 1 (above): Phylogenetic tree of bacterial kingdom, illustrating evolutionary diversity of Actinomycetota, of interest as hosts of sustainable biomanufacturing and bioremediation.

Fig. 2 (left): Comparison of native and engineered bacterial selenocysteine incorporations, illustrating gaps required to functionalize selenoprotein technologies.

Fig. 3 (below): Representation of our protein engineering workflow.

One Workflow, Many Applications

While the lab works on many distinct projects, we approach them through a shared high-throughput workflow. These projects draw on a common set of technologies: modular DNA assembly, genetic circuit design, high-throughput biosensors/screening platforms, and automation. Oftentimes, available tools don't meet the needs of this workflow, so we spend time on technology development, adapting existing methods or building new ones from scratch when necessary, to extend our engineering capabilities and support the broader scientific community. This shared foundation means insights and tools move easily between projects, and collaboration across the lab follows naturally.

Good Company

We believe that communication and collaboration are the necessary foundation for scientific discovery, which we foster through open-door policies, dynamic group meetings, and collaborative work. This results in open discussion of results, direct feedback on ideas, and a norm of troubleshooting together, all drawing on the different perspectives we each have to offer.

While we work hard, we also make sure to have fun in the lab (ex. our building-famous meme wall), in the office (ex. soup season to stave off winter blues in Houston), and on the weekends (ex. fish fries and crawfish boils)!

Page updated

Google Sites

Report abuse