Jiyuan Zhang

Accomplished Protein Chemist with 10+ years of experience in protein production, purification, and characterization for drug discovery and structural biology applications. Proven track record of construct design, cloning, expression, and optimization of challenging proteins-including membrane proteins and multi-protein complexes-for Cryo-EM, and biophysical/biochemical assays. Skilled in managing contract research organizations (CROs) and leading cross-functional project teams, with a collaborative mindset and proactive approach to problem-solving. Demonstrated success in structure-function studies, including advanced proteomics and biophysical assays, to accelerate drug discovery pipelines.

• Advanced cryo-EM methodologies, including sample preparation, data collection, and model refinement.
• Proficient in software tools for structural biology (e.g., RELION, Phenix, PyMOL) and data analysis (R).
• Completed ACUE 'Designing Learner-Centered and Equitable Courses' training.
• Experience teaching and mentoring undergraduates and research interns.

• Zhang, J. et al. (2023). Lysosomal LAMP proteins regulate lysosomal pH by direct inhibition of the TMEM175 channel. Molecular Cell 83(14): 2524-2539.
• Zhang, J. et al. (2021). Lsm12 is an NAADP receptor and a two-pore channel regulatory protein required for calcium mobilization from acidic organelles. Nature Communications 12(1): 4739.
• Zhang, J. et al. (2018). Glutamate-activated BK channel complexes formed with NMDA receptors. PNAS 115(38): E9006-E9014.

• Rated 'Exceptional' by Faculty Opinions for research on NAADP-gated lysosomal calcium release.
• Successfully secured and contributed to multiple NIH grants (R21, R01).