Awarded in 2011
Home Department: Bioengineering
Faculty Advisor: Michael Lin (Pediatrics)

Research Description: Controlling protein activity with light has long been a goal of scientists and engineers seeking to study protein interaction networks and develop novel medical therapeutics. Light-responsive proteins have been engineered for specific applications; however, a broadly applicable platform using light to study protein function in general is still needed. The aim of Austin's research is to construct and characterize such a platform using fluorescent proteins, which absorb and emit light. Currently, the project consists of optimizing a light-control system for a specific set of proteins involved with cell movement. The eventual goal is to apply this platform to control many proteins with a variety of functions.

WHERE IS HE NOW?

Austin is a Senior Director of Portfolio Strategy with ResMed in San Diego, CA. He leads the Portfolio Strategy function within ResMed's Product organization seeking to revolutionize Sleep and Breathing health. He was previously a Principal with the health care practice of the Boston Consulting Group in the Chicago office.