The Shurer Lab Team

Assistant Professor

Academic Background: B.S. in Chemical Engineering from Virginia Tech, Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from Cornell University (Paszek Lab), and post-doctoral positions at the University of Texas Health Sciencce Center and the University of Virginia (Levental Lab).

Research Interests: My work explores the intricate interplay between the glycocalyx, a complex carbohydrate layer on cell surfaces, and membrane lipids to reveal their roles in cellular organization, signaling, and protein trafficking. We will merge these two areas to innovate therapeutics and biomanufacturing. 

Outside the lab: When I’m not in the lab, you’ll usually find me with knitting needles in hand or tending to my growing collection of houseplants. 

PhD Student, Joined Fall 2025

Academic Background: B.S. in Chemical Engineering with a minor in Mathematics (2025), University of Rhode Island. Undergraduate research in the characterization of biogenically produced nanoparticles.

Research Interests: Interests include membrane synthesis, specifically how the glycocalyx can regulate membrane curvature and its influence on cell function and disease progression.

Highlights: Organized AIChE’s Eckhardt Northeast Student Regional Conference (2025).

Outside the lab: Abby enjoys reading a good romance book and doing a puzzle while watching true crime documentaries.

Interested, motivated students are encouraged to reach out to discuss new opportunities on our Team!