Evan Pratt

Dr. Evan Pratt is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry at Northern Michigan University. He received his B.S. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from Lyman Briggs College (Michigan State University) in 2010, followed by a Ph.D. in Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology from Purdue University in 2017. His postdoctoral training at the University of Colorado Boulder's BioFrontiers Institute focused on genetically encoded fluorescent Zn²+ sensors. Since joining NMU in Fall 2020, he has taught advanced biochemistry courses including CH 450, CH 452, and CH 454, while leading an active research program involving undergraduate scientists.

Research Focus: The Pratt Lab specializes in developing cutting-edge fluorescent sensors for metal ions, particularly Mg²+. Using advanced microscopy, they investigate subcellular Mg²+ distribution, regulatory mechanisms, and interactions with cellular metabolism. Current work builds on prior research involving Zn²+ sensors and expands into collaborations with campus research groups.

Notable Contributions: Dr. Pratt has published extensively on calcium and zinc signaling, including tools for zinc cell biology, vesicular targeting signals, and cAMP-ERK interactions in pancreatic cells. His recent work explores novel Mg²+ sensors and expands into cancer metabolism through IDH mutation studies.

Academic Engagement: Dr. Pratt's research bridges molecular pharmacology and cellular biochemistry, with applications in diabetes research and cancer biology. He actively involves students in his research program, focusing on real-world scientific exploration.