Irin Tom

Background

About Irin Tom

As a Biochemist/Biophysicist, I specialize in tackling complex questions in protein science and drug discovery, with a focus on structural and computational biology. Currently, I’m a Postdoctoral Research Associate at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, where I explore how protein-small molecule interactions—modulated by water and temperature—can inform therapeutic strategies for pediatric cancers. My Ph.D. research revealed molecular mechanisms of signal integration in a dual-sensor photoreceptor (PPHK) using cryo-EM, providing the first full-length structures of cyanobacteriochromes and uncovering long-range allosteric dynamics. I've led multiple structural biology projects, established cryo-EM workflows, and solved protein structures using both cryo-EM and crystallography. With extensive training in protein biochemistry, structural techniques, organic synthesis and assay development, I bring both scientific rigor and collaborative leadership to multidisciplinary research. Passionate about science education, I’ve also shaped undergraduate curricula and served as a teaching assistant for 700+ students across 15 semesters. Honors include the BPS SRAA Award, wwPDB Poster Prize, CryoEM Merit Badge, and several competitive travel awards and student presenter awards.