Francesca Vallese

Francesca Vallese is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at City College of New York (CCNY), part of CUNY. She is affiliated with the CUNY Advanced Science Research Center (ASRC) and collaborates closely with the New York Structural Biology Center (NYSBC). Her research focuses on structural biology, employing cryo-EM to study membrane protein complexes, particularly ankyrins and their roles in cellular integrity. She earned her Ph.D. in Biosciences from the University of Padova, followed by postdoctoral work at Columbia University and under Dr. Zanotti, where she investigated H. pylori proteins and erythrocyte structures.

Her lab integrates biochemical and biophysical techniques to explore protein assemblies in native contexts, emphasizing cryo-EM. Research interests include calcium homeostasis, membrane dynamics, and structural biology applications to diseases like ataxia. The Vallese Lab fosters collaboration, innovation, and mentorship for students in biochemistry and structural biology.

Publications highlight her work on SARS-CoV-2 proteins, PMCA3 mutation effects, erythrocyte ankyrin architecture, and bacterial cytochrome structures. The lab prioritizes diversity and inclusion to create a collaborative scientific environment.