Stephanie C. Ems-McClung

Dr. Stephanie C. Ems-McClung is an Associate Research Professor in the Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology at Indiana University. She earned her PhD from Indiana University School of Medicine in 1998 and joined Dr. Claire Walczak's lab in 2001, where she now serves as Research Supervisor. Her work bridges biochemistry, biophysics, and cell biology to investigate cytoskeletal regulation during mitosis.

Her research examines:

• Mechanisms of microtubule dynamics and motor protein function
• RanGTP-dependent spatial regulation of kinesins
• Phospho-regulatory switches in mitotic control
• Biomechanics of cytoskeletal networks

She applies advanced imaging (FLIM-FRET) and structural approaches to study how these processes ensure accurate cell division.

Recent publications (2018-2024) focus on:

• Therapeutic targeting of mitotic kinesins in cancer
• RanGTP effector gradients in spindle assembly
• Mechanical properties of motor-driven microtubule bundles
• Aurora kinase regulation mechanisms

As lab supervisor, she mentors students and oversees research on cytoskeletal dysregulation in disease contexts.