Katherine McJunkin

American molecular biologist

Katherine McJunkin is an American molecular biologist known for her research in the field of RNA interference and gene regulation. She is a prominent figure in the study of microRNAs and their role in developmental biology.

Early life and education

Katherine McJunkin was born and raised in the United States. She developed an early interest in the biological sciences, which led her to pursue higher education in the field. McJunkin attended Harvard University, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in biochemistry. Her undergraduate studies laid the foundation for her future research in molecular biology.

Following her undergraduate education, McJunkin pursued a Ph.D. in molecular biology at Stanford University. During her doctoral studies, she focused on the mechanisms of RNA interference, a process by which small RNA molecules inhibit gene expression. Her research contributed to a deeper understanding of how microRNAs regulate gene expression during development.

Career

Katherine McJunkin

After completing her Ph.D., McJunkin joined the National Institutes of Health (NIH) as a postdoctoral fellow. At the NIH, she continued her research on RNA interference, working in the laboratory of a leading scientist in the field. Her postdoctoral work involved studying the role of microRNAs in embryogenesis and how they influence developmental processes.

In 2016, McJunkin established her own research laboratory at the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), a part of the NIH. As a principal investigator, she leads a team of researchers investigating the molecular mechanisms of gene regulation by small RNAs. Her lab focuses on understanding how microRNAs control gene expression in various biological contexts, including development and disease.

Research

McJunkin's research has significantly advanced the field of RNA biology. Her work has elucidated the complex interactions between microRNAs and their target messenger RNAs (mRNAs), revealing how these small molecules can fine-tune gene expression. Her studies have implications for understanding developmental disorders and diseases where gene regulation is disrupted.

One of McJunkin's notable contributions is her research on the role of microRNAs in cell differentiation. Her findings have shown that microRNAs are crucial for the proper timing of gene expression during the differentiation of stem cells into specialized cell types. This research has potential applications in regenerative medicine and the development of new therapeutic strategies.

Awards and honors

Katherine McJunkin has received several awards and honors for her contributions to molecular biology. She has been recognized by her peers for her innovative research and has been invited to speak at numerous scientific conferences. Her work continues to influence the field of RNA biology and inspire new lines of investigation.

Related pages

• RNA interference
• MicroRNA
• Gene regulation
• Developmental biology