Lauren Parker Jackson, Ph.D.

Associate Professor of Biological Sciences
Program Director, Biochemistry & Chemical Biology Undergraduate Major

Our research program focuses on understanding molecular mechanisms that govern membrane trafficking pathways, the “Fedex system” of our cells. The lab focuses on understanding how assembly and regulation of large multi-subunit coat protein complexes drive both fundamental cell biology and human brain disease. We employ a range of techniques and approaches in the modern life sciences that span structural biology, imaging, biochemistry, biophysics, and cell biology. Our research has been funded by NIH NIGMS, NIH NCI, and a Pew Scholars Award from the Pew Charitable Trusts. Dr. Jackson is currently affiliated with the Center for Structural Biology, Chemical & Physical Biology Program, Epithelial Biology Center, Vanderbilt Brain Institute, and Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center.

 

Dr. Jackson is active in both graduate and undergraduate mentorship and teaching. She has trained graduate students and postdoctoral fellows from diverse backgrounds who have moved to careers in academia, medicine, and industry. Dr. Jackson teaches multiple undergraduate biochemistry courses and is a strong supporter of undergraduate education and research. She currently serves as co-director for the Biochemistry & Chemical Biology (BCB) major and as Associate Director of the Vanderbilt Beckman Scholars Program. She has also served as a Littlejohn Faculty Fellow in the Vanderbilt Undergraduate Summer Research Program (VUSRP) and faculty VUceptor.