Janie FrandsenFaculty

Assistant Professor in Biochemistry and Molecular Bio, Chemistry, and Biology

My research interests lie in studying the structure-function relationship of non-coding regulatory RNAs in bacteria, such as riboswitches and small RNAs.  I approach these questions using an interdisciplinary method, which includes a combination of computational, biochemical, and genetic techniques.  Understanding how these regulatory mechanisms work at the molecular level will aid in the development of novel antibiotics that target regulatory RNAs in bacteria, helping to combat the ever-growing problem of antibiotic resistance.  I was introduced to the world of RNA biology as an undergraduate researcher at a primarily undergraduate institution, and that experience built the foundation for the rest of my scientific career.  My goal at Gustavus is to provide students with similar high-impact experiential learning opportunities in my classroom through course based research and in my laboratory through intensive summer research experiences.  My favorite place to teach is in the lab, where I can foster the development of a scientific mindset through hands-on learning!

Interested in learning more - schedule a time to meet here.

Education

B.S., Denison University; Ph.D., The Ohio State University

Areas of Expertise

biochemistry, RNA, gene regulation, and microbiology


Courses Taught

CHE-106 (Foundations of Chemistry I Lab), CHE-270 (Biochemistry), and CHE-271 (Biochemistry Lab)

Past
Synonym Title Times Taught Terms Taught
CHE-255 Biochemistry Lab 9 2024/SP, 2023/FA, 2023/SP, 2022/FA, and 2021/FA
CHE-360 Proteins Lab 6 2024/SP, 2023/SP, and 2022/SP
CHE-360 Proteins 6 2024/SP, 2023/SP, and 2022/SP
CHE-291 IS:BMB Research 4 2023/SP and 2023/JN
CHE-107 Principles of Chemistry Lab 2 2023/FA and 2022/FA
BIO-391 IS: Bioinformatics Res 1 2023/FA