Dr. Andrew Ellington

Biography

Andrew Ellington is a Professor in the Department of Molecular Biosciences at the University of Texas at Austin. His research focuses on the development of novel synthetic organisms by altering translation apparatuses and developing modular nucleic acid software. Dr. Ellington's lab, known as the Ellington Lab, works on translation engineering that introduces novel amino acids and proteins capable of base-pairing, utilizing a variety of techniques, including directed evolution and computational design. The lab aims to create DNA circuits based on strand exchange reactions that can execute embedded algorithms, which are developed using tools from aptamers and DNA nanotechnology. Applications of these circuits include point-of-care diagnostics, with an aim to form a new modular cellular operating system that enhances cell-to-cell communication and drug delivery in organisms. The lab also engages in vivo studies and enhances engineering translation by installing DNA circuitry into cells, and developing tools for easy horizontal transfer and genome editing.

Research Interests