Sebastian Y. Bednarek

Sebastian Y. Bednarek is a Professor in the Department of Biochemistry at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, where he leads research on molecular mechanisms of plant cell division and expansion using Arabidopsis thaliana and Physcomitrium patens as model systems. His laboratory investigates cytokinesis, membrane trafficking, and cell plate formation through biochemical, genetic, and imaging approaches.

His educational background includes:

• B.S. from University of Wisconsin–Madison
• Ph.D. from Michigan State University

Bednarek's research centers on plant cytokinesis, specifically the fusion of Golgi-derived vesicles during cell plate formation. His lab examines the roles of CDC48, the SCD complex, and clathrin-mediated endocytosis in membrane dynamics, with emphasis on evolutionarily conserved and plant-specific mechanisms. Key interests include phragmoplast function, intracellular protein trafficking, and membrane biogenesis in plant development.

Recent publications reveal trends in plant membrane trafficking, highlighting proteomic characterization of clathrin-coated vesicles, structural mechanics of endocytosis, and cross-talk between post-Golgi and endocytic pathways. Work spans Arabidopsis root cells and moss models, identifying both conserved eukaryotic machinery and novel plant-specific components.

Bednarek mentors graduate students Dana Dahhan and Edward Hoey, and supervises a research team including Research Associate Jessica Cárdenas and undergraduate researchers. His laboratory employs transgenic, biochemical, and morphological studies to dissect molecular networks governing plant cell division, with future work focused on genetic screens for cytokinesis-defective mutants.