RNA is  known for its role in carrying genetic information from DNA for protein production, but it can also fold into complex three-dimensional structures that recognize molecules and perform regulatory or catalytic functions. These properties make RNA an useful material for building molecular switches that connect chemical sensing to changes in gene expression. An RNA switch typically contains a molecular recognition element, such as an aptamer that binds a specific small molecule, coupled to a regulatory RNA element. Ligand binding changes the structure or activity of the RNA, which can alter processes such as RNA cleavage, stability, or translation and ultimately change protein production. My research focuses on developing and understanding these programmable RNA switches for biosensing and gene regulation. One aspect of my work investigates why RNA switch performance can vary depending on the surrounding reporter context and how multiple switches can be combined to create a multiplexed cellular biosensor. I also work on expanding the limited list of available RNA switches through the discovery and rational design of new ligand-responsive switches. Lastly, I study  how chemically modified nucleotides, which are commonly incorporated into therapeutic mRNAs to improve their properties, affect RNA switch structure and function. Together, these studies aim to make RNA switches more predictable, expand the range of molecules they can recognize, and explore their potential as programmable tools for biosensing and therapeutic mRNA regulation.

Grace will hold the Scholarship and perform her research in the lab of Prof. Maureen McKeague