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Emily earned her Master of Science in Biotechnology from Johns Hopkins University, where she conducted research in the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department under Dr. Danfeng Cai. Her work focused on characterizing downstream gene targets of novel TFE3 fusion oncoproteins in renal cell carcinoma. She investigated how these fusion proteins form biomolecular condensates that drive expression of key oncogenic targets. Her findings revealed a striking disconnect between mRNA and protein expression levels, suggesting overactive protein degradation pathways or the possible presence of mRNA sponges. Notably, she also discovered that a well-established TFE3 target is secreted from cancer cells, pointing to a previously unrecognized role in tumor microenvironment signaling and intercellular communication—offering new mechanistic insight into TFE3-driven oncogenesis.
Before joining the Cai Lab, Emily developed a strong foundation in molecular biology and genetic engineering through extensive research across multiple academic institutions. As an undergraduate at Queen’s University, her senior thesis explored the protein–protein interactions of a novel class of plant kinases. Her work demonstrated their essential role in plant immunity and highlighted heterodimerization as a key mechanism of regulation. She also held a research internship at the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto, studying the role of HSP90 in hepatocellular carcinoma.
Emily’s robust background in molecular biology and genetic engineering has equipped her with deep expertise in dissecting protein interactions and elucidating complex mechanistic pathways across diverse biological systems.
Emily is currently a Research Associate at General Proximity, where she supports the platform and drug discovery team. Outside the lab, she enjoys trying new restaurants, practicing yoga, and watching true crime documentaries.
