Mathew Tantama
Associate Professor of Chemistry
Interested in protein engineering, optical sensors, Parkinson’s disease, brain injury, teaching introductory chemistry and biochemistry.
My research projects study aberrant signaling, oxidative stress, and metabolic stress that occurs in the brain. In particular, I am interested in developing new technology that will help us understand the molecular and cellular mechanisms of neurodegeneration and immune responses in models of Parkinson’s disease and brain injury. To do this we use techniques of protein engineering to develop new fluorescent protein-based sensors that can be used with live-cell microscopy to visualize and quantify cellular physiology. Students working in my research group learn skills in molecular biology, protein biochemistry, steady-state and time-resolved fluorescence spectroscopy, mammalian cell culture, and microscopy.
I enjoy teaching Introductory Chemistry and Biochemistry courses.
I am also very interested in evidence-based teaching practices.
In my free time I enjoy hiking and traveling.