Stowers Institute Welcomes New Researchers Unveiling Protein Evolution and Cellular Complexity

New Additions to the Stowers Institute for Medical Research



The Stowers Institute for Medical Research has recently welcomed two promising scientists to its team, aiming to deepen the academic understanding of protein evolution and cellular complexity. Dr. Arvind Pillai and Dr. Friederike Benning will join the Institute as an Assistant Investigator and the latest Jim and Virginia Stowers Fellow, respectively, in Fall 2025. This initiative highlights the Institute's commitment to exploring fundamental biological questions that could lead to innovative biomedical breakthroughs.

Dr. Arvind Pillai is transitioning from the lab of the esteemed 2024 Nobel Laureate, David Baker, at the University of Washington. His research will investigate how new protein structures emerge during evolution, which could be instrumental in developing therapies for various diseases. Dr. Pillai expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "We still don't fully understand how proteins—these unimaginably complex molecules—emerge from a sea of randomness." He aims to utilize advanced artificial intelligence alongside biochemical techniques to unravel the principles of protein folding, dynamics, and function. His laboratory will focus on how genetic and physical forces shape protein evolution, potentially leading to designs for new molecular machines that could perform functions like detecting pathogens or targeting tumors.

On the other hand, Dr. Friederike Benning brings her expertise from Harvard University and Massachusetts General Hospital as the newest Stowers Fellow. Her research will delve into the exploration of bacterial membrane structures, particularly in Alphaproteobacteria, and how these structures adapt to harsh environments. Many shapes of membranes are still uncharted, and Dr. Benning believes that understanding how proteins sculpt these membranes could yield both biological insights and novel tools for drug delivery. She remarked, “What makes Stowers special is the freedom to chase big, bold ideas—and the support to do so with long-term vision.” Her innovative approach will involve cultivating difficult-to-grow bacteria from extreme environments and visualizing the proteins that shape their membrane structures.

Both researchers are driven by curiosity and a desire to tackle significant biological challenges. Alejandro Sánchez Alvarado, the Institute's President and Chief Scientific Officer, emphasizes the importance of such researchers in moving the life sciences forward through technology and creativity.

The Stowers Institute for Medical Research, founded in 1994, focuses on foundational research aimed at enhancing our understanding of life's complexities. This endeavor is part of a larger mission to inform the development of effective treatments and preventions for diseases. With approximately 20 independent research programs and a team of over 370 scientific staff, the Institute stands as a leading nonprofit organization in the realms of biomedical research.

The inclusion of Dr. Pillai and Dr. Benning within its ranks not only bolsters the Institute's research endeavors but also reiterates its dedication to pushing the boundaries of scientific discovery, an essential element in tackling the pressing health challenges of our time. With these new appointments, the Stowers Institute aims to explore the intricate origins of life, shedding light on biological mechanisms that could inform advances in medicine and therapeutic interventions. Their efforts reflect a relentless spirit of inquiry that remains at the heart of scientific progress in understanding life, evolution, and health.

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