We face a liver transplant shortage resulting in avoidable deaths every day. One major problem is the short viability of transplant organs outside the body, as they cannot be frozen.
As a 2025 Schmidt Science Fellow, Julian will study a unique protein produced by certain Antarctic fish that prevents them from freezing at subzero temperatures. He will characterize how this protein regulates cellular responses to extreme cold and explore its potential application in preserving organs.
Through protein engineering, Julian will optimize the protein for enhanced function and facilitated delivery, testing its effectiveness in extending transplant viability – particularly benefitting regions with limited medical infrastructure.
Julian will pivot from Biochemistry to Biomedical Engineering