Asher Ferreira – Undergrad
I’m honored to work in the Luger Lab and contribute to archaeal histone structure research. I am interested in helping discover how the first eukaryotic nucleus evolved and fighting autoimmune diseases like Type 1 Diabetes. I am pursuing a major in biochemistry and intend on learning Quechua as well as mastering Spanish during my undergraduate years at CU. On weekdays you can find me teaching climbing classes at The Spot and on weekends hiking in the Front Range.
Thomas Stilley – Undergrad
I am a second year student studying biochemistry and molecular biology. In the future, I would like to attend graduate school for biochemistry. My work in the lab involves studying and developing assays for PARP inhibitors. In my free time, I love watching the Nuggets, working out, playing video games, and fly fishing
Mckenzie Gallagher – Undergrad
I am a fourth-year undergraduate student majoring in Biochemistry and minoring in Philosophy, on the pre-med track. I am currently working on biochemical characterization of NMNAT2 and studying post translational modifications in lab. In my free time, I like to ski, hike, and listen to music
Liora Goldstein – Undergrad
My name is Liora and I am a third-year biochemistry student at CU. I am grateful that the Luger Lab family has agreed to adopt me from my Cameron Lab family. My previous research with the Cameron lab (2022-2024) involved using CRISPRi technology to study thylakoid membrane biogenesis in cyanobacteria. I am shifting gears in the Luger Lab by working on nucleosomes and studying the proteins involved in remodeling chromatin with Dr. Nicole Hoitsma. Beyond my love for all things biochemistry, I am an avid gardener, enjoy teaching, and love being in nature. I also know a bunch of random art history facts!
Caitlyn Sieg – Undergrad
I am a third-year student studying Integrative Physiology, with a minor in biochemistry and a certificate in neuroscience on the pre-med track. In the lab, I work on assays that compare the effectiveness of inhibitors for PARP1 and PARP2. I am a huge sports fan and love to travel and spend time with my family and friends.
Mahika Anand – Undergrad
I am a fourth-year undergraduate majoring in neuroscience. I am currently working on testing PARP1 binding and compaction of Tri nucleosome constructs. I hope to combine my interests of neuroscience and biochemistry in grad school. When I am not in the lab, I enjoy hiking, snowboarding and puzzles!
Minami Hamelitz-Urena – Undergrad
I am currently a student at Front Range Community College and will be transferring to CU Boulder next year to continue my biology degree. I enjoy learning new laboratory techniques and developing my skills as a researcher. In the Luger Lab, I am studying histone variants and nucleosome assembly. Outside of academics, I enjoy baking, watching movies, and exploring new music.