Andrew Jezewski

Andrew Jezewski is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Genetics and Biochemistry at Clemson University. His research focuses on molecular mycology, particularly the metabolic and genetic mechanisms underlying virulence in Cryptococcus neoformans. He holds dual Bachelor’s degrees in Biotechnology (BS) and Business Administration-Accounting (BSBA) from the University of Nebraska Omaha, a PhD in Microbiology from Washington University in St. Louis, and completed postdoctoral training at the University of Iowa. His lab emphasizes hands-on mentorship, employing techniques like CRISPR, metabolomics, and high-throughput drug screening to identify novel antifungal targets.

Research interests include CO2 tolerance as a virulence trait, host-imposed stress adaptation, and structural biology approaches to uncover metabolic vulnerabilities. His work aims to develop therapies targeting previously unexplored fungal metabolic pathways. Recent studies highlight drug susceptibility modulation by environmental factors and lipid remodeling during host adaptation.

His lab philosophy centers on collaborative learning: 'See one, do one, teach one' guides mentorship to ensure deep understanding and knowledge sharing. While no awards are explicitly listed, his contributions to fungal pathogenesis research are evident through 7+ peer-reviewed publications between 2021-2024.

Laboratory activities integrate genetic screens, animal models, and biochemical assays, with current efforts focused on exploiting metabolic pathways for antifungal drug development. Future directions include exploring fungal enzyme specificity and host-pathogen interactions under physiological stress conditions.