Linda Columbus

Linda Columbus is the Interim Department Chair and Commonwealth Professor of Chemistry at the University of Virginia, with a joint appointment as Professor in Molecular Physiology and Biological Physics. She is based in the Department of Chemistry within the College of Arts and Sciences, where her research focuses on the structure, dynamics, and function of membrane proteins, particularly in bacterial pathogens.

• University: University of Virginia
• School: College of Arts and Sciences
• Department: Department of Chemistry
• Joint Appointment: Molecular Physiology and Biological Physics

Her research interests span membrane protein biophysics, bacterial pathogenesis, and the development of structural biology methods. She employs techniques such as NMR spectroscopy, X-ray crystallography, site-directed spin labeling, and imaging flow cytometry to study membrane protein dynamics and lipid interactions. Her work often involves collaborations with experts in microbiology and immunology, particularly with Dr. Alison Criss.

The recent publications of Linda Columbus demonstrate a strong focus on membrane protein structure and function, with applications in infectious disease and cardiovascular physiology. Her work bridges structural biology, biophysics, and translational medicine, particularly in understanding how bacterial membrane proteins interact with host receptors and evade immune responses. Many of her studies involve Neisseria gonorrhoeae and its Opa proteins, as well as the role of globins in vascular regulation.

• Virginia Outstanding Faculty Award, 2014
• All-University Teaching Award, 2013
• University Academy of Teaching Fellow, 2015
• Nicole Swope awarded NSF Graduate Research Fellowship

Linda Columbus is actively involved in mentoring graduate students and postdoctoral researchers. Her lab fosters a diverse and inclusive research environment. She has collaborated on research involving bacterial membrane proteins, liposome delivery systems, and vascular physiology. Her lab is located in the Physical Life Sciences Building at UVA, and she is supported by multiple institutional and federal grants.