• B.S., Chemistry, Pacific University 2005

• Ph. D., Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Oregon Health and Science University 2009 Advisor: Dr. Pierre Moenne-Loccoz

• Postdoctoral, University of Minnesota 2011 Advisor: Dr. Carrie Wilmot

PUBLICATIONS

Research

Bacterial Zinc Acquisition - Transition metals such as iron, copper, manganese and zinc serve essential functions in biology and are required for such fundamental processes as respiration, photosynthesis and DNA synthesis among others. My lab is interested in the mechanisms by which bacteria acquire metals from the environment. This process is critical for virulence and survival of pathogenic bacteria within the human host. We employ structural biology approaches as well as various spectroscopic, biophysical, and molecular biology techniques to assess the structure, function and mechanism of proteins involved in these processes. The long-term goal of these studies is to further the development of improved antibiotics against resistant bacteria, which target these metal import functions.

Awards and Honors

• NSF MCB (2021- )
• NMSU College of Arts and Sciences, Outstanding Faculty Acheivement in Scholarship / Research / Creative Activity, 2020
• NIH NIGMS R01 (2018-2024)
• NMSU Chemistry and Biochemistry Department Star, 2018
• NIH NIGMS SC2 (2015-2018)
• Boyer-Peter Award for Postdoctoral Research, University of Minnesota, 2013
• National Research Service Award, National Institutes of Health, 2011-2013 

Watch a video of Dr. Yukl discussing his research