Dr. Julie A. Maupin-Furlow

Dr. Maupin-Furlow is an ASM Academy Fellow, Professor and Graduate Coordinator in the Department of Microbiology and Cell Science at the University of Florida, who leads an internationally recognized research team focused on the metabolism and physiology of archaea including those from extreme environments (extremophiles). She uses a multidisciplinary approach that includes proteomic, biochemical, molecular, genomic, and structural biology techniques to address research questions on how cells respond to and function in extreme environments and what features may be evolutionarily conserved or distinct among this group of organisms. Her work provides a deeper understanding of molecular mechanisms fundamental to cell biology including discoveries in redox biology, post-translational modifications, ubiquitin-proteasomes, sulfur mobilization, as well as primary and secondary metabolism. Maupin-Furlow has also made scientific advances in the use of microorganisms and their enzymes as industrial biocatalysts to generate renewable fuels and chemicals. Patented molecular tools and enzyme biocatalysts derived from extremophilic microorganisms for industrial application are practical outcomes of her program.