Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (Berkeley Lab) has recently announced the appointment of Dr. Junko Yano as the Director of the Molecular Biophysics and Integrated Bioimaging (MBIB) Division. Dr. Yano, renowned for her pioneering research in natural and artificial photosynthetic systems, is also a member of the scientific advisory board* of UniSysCat.
In her new role, Dr. Yano aims to strengthen and expand the MBIB Division's expertise in bioenergetics, structural biology, cellular and tissue imaging, and computational simulations. She emphasizes the unique combination of skills within the division, including X-ray science, advanced imaging techniques, and artificial intelligence/machine learning (AI/ML). This interdisciplinary approach positions the MBIB Division at the forefront of molecular biophysics and bioimaging research. Her vision includes expanding the division's research portfolio to address challenges in energy, environment, health, and biomanufacturing.
Dr. Yano's research has made significant contributions to the field of natural and artificial photosynthesis and metalloenzymes relevant to renewable energy. Her work delves into the intricacies of photosynthesis, exploring how plants convert light energy into chemical energy. Dr. Yano's innovative research has pioneered the use of X-ray free electron lasers (XFELs) to study molecular and atomic-level phenomena in metalloenzymes, offering insights into their functional conditions. Recently, for example, in this publication (click here for the corresponding article on this website).
In addition to her scientific achievements, Dr. Yano is dedicated to promoting Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accountability (IDEA) principles. She has actively fostered career development activities and encouraged broader representation within the MBIB Division. Her commitment to mentorship is evident in her mentoring of numerous research assistants, graduate students, and postdoctoral researchers.
As the newly appointed Director of the MBIB Division at Berkeley Lab, Dr. Junko Yano serves as a catalyst for transformative research. We wish her all the best for the future!
Read the article on the Berkeley Lab Website here.
*The Scientific Advisory Board of UniSysCat consists of 12 distinguished scientists and researchers with expertise in catalysis and related fields. Their role is to provide guidance, advice, and oversight to the cluster's research activities, ensuring that they remain aligned with the latest advancements in the field and are of the highest scientific quality.