Tarjani Thaker*
Biosciences West, Room 430
Degrees and Appointments
- BS. 2007, University of Delaware
- Ph.D. 2013, Vanderbilt University
- Postdoctoral Fellow 2014 - 2018, University of California San Francisco
- Scientist IV, 2018 - 2023, University of Arizona
- Assistant Professor, 2024 - present, University of Arizona
Specialties: Structural Biology (X-ray Crystallography and Cryo-EM), Biochemistry/Biophysics, Metabolism, Signaling, Allosteric Regulation of Membrane Protein Complexes
Research Description
The Thaker Lab investigates the structural and functional mechanisms that govern cellular bioenergetics, with a specific focus on atypical protein kinases. These versatile enzymes operate at the crucial intersection of signaling and metabolism, integrating complex pathways across multiple cellular membranes. By combining high-resolution cryo-EM and in vitro biochemistry, we decode their precise roles in three core areas: coenzyme Q biosynthesis, insulin signaling, and inflammation. These processes are directly linked to aging, kidney disease, and cancer. Ultimately, our mission is to translate these fundamental molecular insights into targeted, personalized therapies.