Dr. Elizabeth Komives

Professor

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Biography

Elizabeth Komives is a distinguished professor in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at the University of California, San Diego. Her research focuses on understanding the structure, function, and dynamics of protein-protein interactions through various biophysical techniques, including Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) and mass spectrometry. The Komives lab is recognized for pioneering the use of hydrogen-deuterium exchange mass spectrometry (HDX-MS) to map protein-protein interfaces. Their work has uncovered critical insights into allosteric regulation, particularly in thrombin-thrombomodulin complexes. By demonstrating how thrombomodulin alters the dynamic ensemble of thrombin, her lab has revealed important mechanics that favor catalytic activity. Furthermore, her research on NFκB-IκB signaling has established new paradigms in the dynamics of transcription factors and their interactions with DNA. Komives is also actively involved in outreach and mentorship, focusing on increasing diversity in the field of Biophysics through various initiatives and training programs for underrepresented students.

Research Interests

Awards

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Fellow

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Bruno Zimm Scholar

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Kaiser Award for Excellence in Teaching

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N.I.H. Postdoctoral Fellow

Requirements for University of California, San Diego

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
TOEFL
Total
Required:85
IELTS
Overall
Required:7
Duolingo
Overall Score
Required:120
Overall
Required:120
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree in physical, biological, or earth sciences, mathematics, or engineering. Differential and integral calculus. One year of calculus-based physics with laboratory. One year of chemistry with laboratory.
Application Checklist
  • Statement of Purpose (max 2 pages)
  • Unofficial transcripts
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • Application fee ($135 domestic / $155 international)
Specialization Notes

Administered by the Scripps Institution of Oceanography. Curricular groups include Climate-Ocean-Atmosphere (COAP), Geosciences (GEO), and Ocean Biosciences (OBP).