Hi, I’m Brandon! I’m an MD/PhD student in Biomedical Sciences with Dr. Christopher Obara and Dr. Susan Taylor. Growing up in LA, I completed my BS in biochemistry at Cal State LA, starting my journey in physical and materials chemistry with Dr. Yangyang Liu (no relation) and Dr. Matthias Selke – far from biology at first! I studied how nanomaterials known as metal-organic frameworks can produce high-energy states of oxygen, useful for synthesizing molecules or neutralizing chemical toxins. I was fascinated by molecular tools and most excited to apply this to biology. After college, I ventured into chemical biology as an NIH Postbac with Dr. Joseph Barchi Jr. Using the same chemical techniques, I studied carbohydrate-based cancer antigens and their molecular behaviors. From these experiences, I have learned to approach science with a molecular perspective.
Now, in the Obara and Taylor Labs, I study kinase signaling using our single-molecule imaging approaches. Being at the interface of biology, chemistry, and physics means I work alongside talented scientists that bring unique perspectives to the lab. It is an exciting privilege to be pursuing scientific discovery with such a warm and collaborative group. Together, we can observe the real-time motion of individual proteins within cells – something I never thought was possible!
Beyond the lab, I’m passionate about making science accessible through tutoring, mentoring students through similar paths, or talking with friends about current research or simply just for fun. I feel science progresses most when everyone participates. Outside of science, I enjoy strategy and puzzle games, racket sports, and lounging with my partner and two cats.
