Dr. Isaac Fianu

Assistant Professor

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Biography

Isaac Fianu is an Assistant Professor of Biochemistry at Caltech, focusing on gene regulation and genome stability. He obtained his B.Sc. from the University of Ghana in 2012 and completed his M.Sc./PhD at the University of Göttingen, Germany, in 2020. Fianu then pursued postdoctoral research at the Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Science in Germany from 2020 to 2024. His research employs biochemistry and structural biology techniques, particularly cryo-electron microscopy, to investigate critical processes that control gene expression and respond to cellular conditions. Fianu's work emphasizes the importance of RNA Polymerase II and its regulation by the Integrator complex, which is linked to several diseases and developmental disorders. He is interested in the coordination of DNA transcription, replication, and repair to avoid genome instability, providing insights that may lead to new therapeutic approaches. Fianu is currently seeking new team members, including postdoctoral and graduate student candidates, to join his research efforts.

Research Interests

Experience

Assistant Professor

— Present

California Institute of Technology • Pasadena, CA

Teaching and conducting research in the field of biochemistry with a focus on gene regulation and genome stability.

Requirements for California Institute of Technology

Doctorate Program
Requirements
TOEFL
Total
Required:100
IELTS
Overall
Required:7
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree or equivalent Strong background in mathematics and physical sciences
Application Checklist
  • Online Application
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Three Letters of Recommendation
  • Transcripts
  • Resume/CV
Specialization Notes

Most Caltech graduate programs are PhD-only. GRE General and Subject tests vary by department; many have made them optional or no longer accept them.