Thomas Cottle

About Thomas Cottle

Dedicated biochemist/biophysicist with a passion for studying molecular machines and…

Experience

1. Doctoral Candidate - Biochemistry and Biophysics

   Brandeis University

   Aug 2020 — Present · Waltham, MA, US

   Currently attending Brandeis University pursuing a PhD in Biochemistry and Biophysics in the Kardon Lab. We study how the mitochondrial unfoldase/protease pair CLPXP exhibits conditional recognition of its substrates. In particular, I am interested how CLPXP exhibits heme-dependent feedback regulation of Aminolevulinic Acid Synthase (ALAS)- the rate-limiting enzyme in heme biosynthesis. CLPXP has been demonstrated to activate ALAS via incorporation of a necessary co-factor to promote heme biosynthesis. My work has revealed that a CLPXP adaptor protein, POLDIP2, is able to sense heme-bound ALAS2 and deliver it to CLPXP for complete unfolding and degradation. This work has revealed a mechanism wherein CLPXP is responsive to the level of heme in the environment, tuning the output of ALAS to match the need of the cell for new heme.

Education

• Brandeis University

  Doctor of Philosophy - PhD, Biochemistry and Biophysics

  2020 — 2025

• Endicott College

  Bachelor of Science (BS), Biology, Biotechnology

  2011 — 2015

Skills

• Acting
• Stage Lighting
• Public Speaking
• Event Planning
• Biotechnology
• Protein Purification
• Theatre
• Performing Arts
• Marketing
• Report Writing
• Antibodies
• Set Construction
• Lighting Design
• Biology
• Directing
• Theatrical Production
• Event Management
• Chemistry
• Emergency Medicine
• Musical Theatre
• Set Design
• Immunohistochemistry
• Time Management
• Sound Design