معرفی
Dr. Megen A. Culpepper serves as Associate Professor and Research Mentor in the Department of Chemistry and Fermentation Sciences at Appalachian State University, where she has taught Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry, and Introductory Chemistry since joining the faculty in 2014.
Education:
- Ph.D. in Bioanalytical Chemistry, University of Kansas (2009)
Her research program centers on elucidating the structure-function relationships of enzymes in the global sulfur cycle, particularly those degrading dimethyl sulfide (DMS)—a critical atmospheric compound influencing climate regulation. Utilizing interdisciplinary approaches spanning protein biochemistry, molecular biology, and advanced analytical techniques, her laboratory investigates metalloenzyme mechanisms through protein expression, purification, and structural analysis. A key component involves X-ray crystallography at Argonne National Laboratory to determine three-dimensional protein structures and mechanistic insights.
Dr. Culpepper's publication record demonstrates focused expertise in sulfur-metabolizing enzymes, with her 2020 ACS Omega paper characterizing a flavin-dependent oxidoreductase in DMS degradation pathways. This work exemplifies her lab's integration of biochemical characterization with structural biology to address environmental biochemistry questions.
Research Support:
- National Institutes of Health/NIEHS grant (PI) on flavin transfer mechanisms in dimethylsulfide monooxygenase
- Gordon Research Conference PUI Fund (PI) for metal-binding studies in sulfur-degrading enzymes
- Appalachian State University CONCERT grant (PI with co-PI B.C. Hester) determining native binding partners in climate-relevant two-subunit proteins
She actively mentors undergraduate researchers in laboratory techniques while maintaining collaborations with national facilities like Argonne National Laboratory, positioning her work at the intersection of fundamental enzymology and atmospheric science.
