Nathaniel Nucci

Nathaniel Nucci is an Associate Professor at Rowan University's College of Science & Mathematics, jointly appointed in the Department of Biological & Biomedical Sciences and Physics & Astronomy. His research bridges biophysics, structural biology, and nanotechnology to understand protein behavior in confined environments.

Education

• Ph.D., Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, University of Pennsylvania
• M.S., Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of New Hampshire
• B.S., Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of New Hampshire

Research Interests

Dr. Nucci's lab focuses on:

• Protein biophysics in crowded/confining environments
• Reverse micelle technology for biomolecular studies
• Hydration dynamics of proteins (NMR-based methods)
• Structural biology of disease-related proteins (PHDs, p53)
• Drug delivery systems for protein therapeutics
• Nanoparticle synthesis with protein conjugation

Research Trends

His recent publications demonstrate expertise in using reverse micelles to study:

• Protein structural stability under confinement
• Hydration dynamics of therapeutic proteins
• Microenvironmental effects on phase-separating proteins
• Conformational changes in GPCRs
• Interfacial interactions in biomolecular systems

Scientific Awards

• Gary J. Hunter Excellence in Mentoring Award (2024)
• College of Science and Mathematics Excellence in Academic Student Support (2022)

Teaching Philosophy

Emphasizes applied and experiential learning, integrating recent scientific discoveries into classroom practice and promoting hands-on scientific investigation.