Dr. Rama Ranganathan

Biography

Rama Ranganathan is the Joseph Regenstein Professor in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the University of Chicago. His research interests focus on understanding adaptation in biological systems through the development of computational statistical models. He examines protein folding mechanisms and how proteins can achieve well-ordered structures that enable specific binding and catalysis of complex reactions. His lab investigates metabolic signaling systems and their capacity to process information efficiently amidst random perturbations. Ranganathan employs both experimental and theoretical approaches to uncover the principles that govern the structural and functional aspects of biological systems. His research addresses fundamental questions related to the engineering of biological systems through an evolutionary lens, aiming to elucidate the mechanisms by which nature builds complex molecular architectures. The laboratory engages in diverse projects from direct visualization of ion conduction in protein channels to innovative design of functional protein sequences using deep-learning methodologies.

Research Interests

Experience