Ernest Hannig

Ernest Hannig is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at the School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, The University of Texas at Dallas. He has been a faculty member at UT Dallas since 1990, advancing from Assistant Professor to Associate Professor in 1996, and remains actively involved in research and mentorship.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey / Rutgers University (1985)
• M.S. in Biology, Seton Hall University (1979)
• B.S. in Biology/Medical Technology, Seton Hall University (1976)

Dr. Hannig's research centers on translational regulation in eukaryotic organisms, with a focus on the initiation phase of protein synthesis in the model organism Saccharomyces cerevisiae. His work investigates the roles of eukaryotic initiation factors eIF2 and eIF2B, which are critical for ribosomal selection of mRNA and start codon identification. His lab combines genetic and biochemical approaches to dissect subunit functions within these complexes, with implications for understanding diseases like cancer where translation is dysregulated.

His recent publications (1997–2005) reveal a strong focus on the mechanics of translation initiation, particularly the GTP-dependent functions of eIF2, nucleotide exchange by eIF2B, and the fidelity of start codon selection. These studies employ yeast genetics, protein purification, kinetic analysis, and structural modeling, contributing significantly to the molecular understanding of protein synthesis.

Scientific Awards:

• Intramural Research Training Award, NIH (1987–1990)
• Postdoctoral Fellowship, American Cancer Society (1985–1987)
• Graduate Student Scholarship, Theobald Smith Society (1984)
• Graduate Student Scholarship, ASM NYC Branch (1982)

Dr. Hannig has advised several graduate students, including five Ph.D. and M.S. graduates who have pursued careers in academia and biotechnology. His research has been supported by competitive grants from the American Cancer Society and the National Science Foundation. He has served as a grant reviewer for the NSF, Wellcome Trust, Austrian Science Foundation, and K-INBRE, and as a reviewer for journals such as Journal of Biological Chemistry and Genetics. He has also contributed as a textbook reviewer and test bank author for major biology publications.

His work is conducted within the Molecular and Cell Biology program at UT Dallas, supported by institutional and external funding, and integrated into broader efforts in molecular genetics and translational regulation.