معرفی
Rodney Burton, Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor of Biochemistry at Ave Maria University. He holds a B.S. and Ph.D. in Biochemistry from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, followed by postdoctoral research at Michigan State University and the University of Michigan. His research focuses on biophysical mechanisms of electron transport proteins, phosphoglycerate dehydrogenase in tuberculosis/leprosy pathogens, and vault shell protein complexes for cancer treatment applications.
Dr. Burton’s lab investigates vault proteins—large eukaryotic complexes with unknown functions but elevated presence in cancer cells. His team develops methods for vault protein assembly and bioengineering for drug delivery systems, while prioritizing student development as Christian disciples through scientific integrity and teamwork. Key research goals include understanding vault protein assembly mechanisms and translating findings into therapeutic strategies.
Recent publications span bacterial microcompartment engineering, enzymology, and structural biology. Though no explicit awards are listed, his work aligns with Ave Maria’s mission through grants like the EASE Grant. He emphasizes lab stewardship, ethical science communication, and mentoring students in both research and faith-based ethics.
