Irma Querques

Irma Querques is an Associate Professor at the University of Vienna, affiliated with the Department of Structural and Computational Biology. Her research focuses on transposable elements, CRISPR-associated systems, and molecular mechanisms of gene editing. She teaches advanced courses in microbiology, genetics, and molecular biology, including practical training in scientific practice and journal clubs.

• Department: Structural and Computational Biology
• Email: irma.querques@univie.ac.at
• Phone: +43-1-4277-74343

Research Interests

Dr. Querques investigates the structural and functional dynamics of transposons and CRISPR systems, particularly their roles in genome engineering. Her work includes optimizing transposase proteins for gene delivery, analyzing R-loop formation in Cas9 activation, and elucidating RNA-guided DNA integration mechanisms. Current projects explore how ATPase filaments bridge transposons and CRISPR systems, as well as strategies to redirect transposon integration away from genes for safer gene therapy.

Publications Trend

Her recent publications highlight advancements in transposase engineering for improved solubility and integration control, structural analysis of CRISPR-associated transposons, and mechanistic insights into Cas9 activation. Themes include molecular machines, DNA repair pathways, and RNA-guided gene editing technologies.