Ariel Alperstein

Ariel Alperstein is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry at the University of Delaware's College of Arts & Sciences. She leads the Alperstein Lab, which focuses on developing advanced ultrafast vibrational spectroscopy techniques for nanoscale biological research.

• Education: B.A. from Skidmore College (2014), Ph.D. from University of Wisconsin-Madison (2020), Postdoctoral Researcher at University of Minnesota (2020-2022)

Research Overview: Dr. Alperstein's lab specializes in creating super-resolution stimulated Raman (SRS) and two-dimensional infrared spectroscopy (2DIR) methods to study protein structures and interactions at the nanoscale. Key research areas include:

• Ultrafast vibrational spectroscopy instrumentation development
• Live cell imaging of erlotinib resistance in non-small cell lung cancer
• Desmin fragment-related cardiomyopathy and chaperone protein interactions
• Protein structural changes induced by microplastics

Her work bridges optics development with biochemical applications, emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches to cellular health challenges.

Lab Environment: The Alperstein Lab promotes inclusivity through weekly diversity, equity, and inclusion discussions, and maintains a zero-tolerance policy for hate while fostering open communication and collaboration.