The Office of the Vice President of Academic Affairs recognized Professor and Head of Biochemistry Susan Martinis as one of six University Scholars at the Urbana-Champaign campus for 2013.
The Office of the Vice President of Academic Affairs recognized Professor and Head of Biochemistry Susan Martinis as one of six University Scholars at the Urbana-Champaign campus for 2013.
Martinis researches the interactions of RNA and proteins, specifically focusing on aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases. This family of enzymes accurately attaches an amino acid to its compatible tRNA molecule. A ribosome can then transfer the amino acid from this "charged" aminoacyl-tRNA molecule to a growing peptide chain. These enzymes are crucial in ensuring sequence fidelity between DNA sequences and the proteins they encode.
The University Scholars Program began in 1985 to identify "the most talented faculty members from many different disciplines" and "encourage continued professional growth and contributions to the University and the public it serves." University Scholars receive $10,000 for each of three years for career enhancement.