I have a strong interest in structure-function relationships in proteins, particularly macromolecular machines. My current research focuses on uncovering the structural determinants of functional differences among diverse bacterial type IIA topoisomerases, critical enzymes that untangle DNA and are the targets of antibiotics in many clinically relevant bacteria. I use these enzymes as a model system for understanding macromolecular interactions in proteins from extremophiles, organisms that live in extreme environments, such as superheated deep sea vents and glacial brine veins.
Students interested in joining my research group should send an email explaining their interests and career goals to me at aschoeffler@shc.edu.
Kinetics & Enzymology
Small-angle X-ray scattering
X-ray crystallography