Rhiju Das, PhD

Rhiju Das is seeking to solve three main problems related to the visualization and design of RNA. Das and his team are focused on: predicting RNA structure from sequence alone; identifying the 3D structure of RNA-driven machines and their partners and substrates in situ; and designing RNA machines without going through numerous rounds of trial-and-error. The team works at the intersection of theoretical physics, experimental biochemistry, and computer science. Recently, they have investigated the SARS-CoV-2 RNA genome and identified 3D structures relevant to inhibiting viral replication and have contributed to COVID-19 mRNA vaccine development.