Biochemistry

Biochemistry professor honored for groundbreaking research

Story by Mary Martialay
January 31, 2023

Elizabeth J. Tran, professor of biochemistry, has been named a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Sciences (AAAS), one of the most distinct honors within the scientific community.

The citation for Tran states: For distinguished contributions to the field of molecular and cellular gene regulation, particularly for dissecting how RNA and DNA structures impact every step of gene expression.

Tran, who has been a Purdue faculty member since 2009, is an expert in RNA biology and studies helicases that alter RNA structure. In addition to extensive published research, her accomplishments include the Purdue Cancer Research Award, the RNA Society Lifetime Service Award, and recipient of a National Institute of Health grant for three consecutive cycles.

“Dr. Tran’s research program has generated remarkable insights that span the fields of RNA biology, epigenetics, metabolism and cancer,” said Joe Ogas, interim department head and professor of biochemistry. “She has also played a leading role in training and mentoring young scientists in the Department of Biochemistry. We are thrilled to have her many outstanding contributions recognized in this fashion.”

Tran’s research uses a combination of biochemistry, molecular biology and bioinformatics to address key questions about the mechanisms of RNA helicases, the roles of long non-coding RNAs, and to pinpoint RNA-based processes whose mis-regulation results in cancer. This multidisciplinary approach allows for new insights and novel discoveries in RNA biology.

Being chosen as a Fellow of the AAAS is a recognition by my own peers not only of my work, but also of the work of my lab and my students. And it’s my pleasure to share that honor. My work is my research, but it’s also training and mentoring junior scientists and new faculty. I’m fostering the future when I help others.

- Elizabeth J. Tran, professor of biochemistry

The tradition of AAAS fellows stretches back to 1874. Eligible nominees are members whose efforts on behalf of the advancement of science or its applications are scientifically or socially distinguished. Newly elected fellows are recognized for their extraordinary achievements at the ceremonial Fellows Forum, a time-honored event at the AAAS Annual Meeting in March.

Featured Stories

Prototype forest growth model demonstrated for Peru application

The U.S. Forest Service invested decades of work and tens of millions of dollars to develop a...

A maple syrup producer looks out over his processing equipment.

Researchers Seek Maple Syrup Producer Feedback with New Survey

Researchers are working to scale up the green production of maple syrup in the Central Hardwood...

A man with glasses looks through a microscope in a laboratory, illuminated by contrasting blue and red lighting.

Fly’s eye opens window into important biological processes

The eyes are the window to the soul, according to an old saying. But Purdue University’s...

A young Geriann Albers holds a coyote pup; Albers holds a red-winged blackbird; Albers holds her Chase S. Osborn plaque.

Meet Geriann Albers: 2025 Chase S. Osborn Early Career Award Recipient

For her contributions to and impact on wildlife management in the state of Indiana, Geriann...

From left, lab members Jieun Woo, Dekun Cheng and professor Weicang Wang look under the sterile hood of their lab at a petri dish.

How do PFAS affect gut health?

PFAS have been shown to increase risks to immunity, reproductive health, developmental delays,...

Senior Isaac Johnson sprays invasive species, conducts midstory control and stands next to a tree he felled during his summer as a Forestry and Natural Resources intern.

FNR Field Report: Isaac Johnson

Senior Isaac Johnson, a forestry major with a concentration in forest management, worked as an...