Alisha Jones

Alisha Jones is an Assistant Professor of Chemistry at New York University, affiliated with the Department of Chemistry within the College of Arts & Science. She holds a Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of Washington and dual Bachelor’s degrees in Chemistry and Zoology from Miami University of Ohio. Her research focuses on RNA structural dynamics, particularly the role of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in gene regulation and disease mechanisms. Dr. Jones employs a combination of biochemical, biophysical, and computational approaches to study RNA structure and function, including chemical probing, molecular dynamics simulations, and machine learning.

Her group investigates how structural conformations of lncRNAs influence their biological roles, such as regulating gene expression through conformational changes. They also explore therapeutic strategies to target these RNA structures in diseases like cancer and viral infections. Notable projects include studying the Xist lncRNA’s A-repeats, SARS-CoV-2 methylation complexes, and the functional core of the lncRNA Cyrano.

Publications highlight her work on RNA structure probing techniques, cooperativity effects in chemical experiments, and the interplay between RNA dynamics and biological function. Her lab, the Jonesy Research Group, emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches and hosts outreach initiatives to promote RNA science. Dr. Jones is based at NYU’s Silver Center, and her contact information includes aj3863@nyu.edu.