Andrei Korostelev

Andrei Korostelev is a Professor at the University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, affiliated with the RNA Therapeutics Institute. His research focuses on the structure and function of ribosomes, particularly the dynamics of translation termination, ribosome rescue mechanisms, and the structural basis of antibiotic action. He employs advanced techniques including X-ray crystallography and cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) to investigate these processes.

• Moscow State University: BS and MS in Chemistry
• Florida State University: PhD in Chemistry & Biochemistry

Korostelev's research spans structural biology, biochemistry, and molecular biology, with emphasis on ribosome-stress responses, bacterial pathogenesis, and non-canonical translation initiation. His work has elucidated how antibiotics like blasticidin S inhibit translation by deforming tRNA and how rescue factors such as ArfA and RF2 collaborate to recycle stalled ribosomes.

His recent publications highlight cryo-EM analyses of ribosome complexes involved in stress signaling (GCN2 activation), viral gene expression, and ALS/FTD-related protein toxicity. These studies often integrate biochemical validation with high-resolution structural data.

• Soros Academic Fellowship
• I.V. Berezin Young Scientist Award
• RNA Society Scaringe Young Scientist Award (runner-up)
• Earl and Thressa Stadtman Scholar Award
• RNA Society Early Career Award

Korostelev has mentored numerous students and postdoctoral researchers, many of whom have transitioned to academic or industry roles. His lab's interdisciplinary approach bridges structural biology, biochemistry, and translational medicine, aiming to inform novel therapeutic strategies targeting ribosome function.