What brought you to ÈÕº«ÎÞÂë?
I joined the faculty in the Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics (MPBP) in the Fall of 2021. MPBP is world-renowned with a storied history studying contractile cellular systems and intracellular movement. I was aware of the department’s reputation when I applied for a position, but visiting ÈÕº«ÎÞÂë made me realize that MPBP’s staff, trainees, and faculty were not just made up of talented scientists, but also thoughtful, supportive, and good-natured people. I soon realized that these traits extended across ÈÕº«ÎÞÂë including at the Cancer Center; I felt at home.
Why did you join the ÈÕº«ÎÞÂë Cancer Center?
I initially joined after great scientific conversations with Jason Stumpff PhD, and Alan Howe PhD. My research is at the intersection of fundamental biology and diseases such as cancer and neurological disorders. I admire the scientific goals of the Cancer Center, and my interests align with their mission statement. I really look forward to interacting and collaborating with a talented network of scientists and doctors. I hope my research can play a small part in the Cancer Center’s mission to reduce the burden of cancer in Vermont and northern New York.
Tell us about your research? What is the biggest takeaway?
There are literally hundreds of different cargos (vesicles, proteins, and organelles) in every cell in our bodies. To exert their cellular function, these tiny cargos need to move long molecular distances to reach their final subcellular destination. How is this movement achieved? Cargos attach to protein machines called molecular motors and are driven on intracellular highways called microtubules. The motors, the recognition machinery, and microtubules are abnormally expressed or mutated in many different types of cancer. My lab is interested in understanding the mechanisms underlying microtubule-based movement and how these processes go awry in disease.
Why cancer research?
Throughout my career, my major focus has been to make fundamental discoveries and provide important insights into how a cell works. Many of the pathways I am interested in (including GTPase signaling, membrane trafficking, and microtubule-based transport) intersect with the pathophysiology of cancer. Given my background in neurobiology, biochemistry, and genetics, I believe I have a unique perspective in understanding such a complex disease.
Do you work with trainees? If so, what do they add to your research?
I take tremendous pride in mentoring the next generation of scientists. My lab would not survive without the hard work of graduate students, lab technicians, and undergraduates. All the trainees inject enthusiasm into daily lab life. They are the major driving force in the day-to-day work.
What is an interesting fact about you/something you would want people to know?
My parents immigrated from Greece in the 1970s; their formal education ended in 6th grade, making me a first-generation middle schooler. I take pride in my heritage and appreciate all the sacrifices they made to allow me to pursue a career in academia.
Learn more about the Salogiannis Lab .