Author Carolyn Marie Clabo, Public Communications Specialist (Director of Communications and Development)
On September 15, 2025, Darex Vera Rodriguez, a doctoral candidate in the Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, successfully defended his thesis titled “Role of a Flexible, Allosteric Loop in Regulating Protein Activity.” Darex conducted his research in the lab of Dr. Andrew L. Lee, where he explored protein allostery using Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. His work revealed novel mechanisms involving protein dynamics and local electrostatics as key regulatory elements.
Beyond the lab, Darex was a dedicated leader and mentor. He served as a mentor for the UNC PREP postbaccalaureate program, represented graduate students on the Graduate Education Committee (GECO), and contributed to organizing monthly BCBP student seminars and the department’s annual retreat.
Darex also cultivated a strong interest in technology commercialization. Through the Venture Catalyst Program at Innovate Carolina, he supported the UNC startup LevoSens in developing a medical device for Parkinson’s disease. He later interned with the Small Business and Technology Development Center (SBTDC), continuing his work to improve patient outcomes.
Following his PhD, Darex will join the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to further his commitment to translating scientific innovation into real-world impact through technology transfer. Also in December 2025, he will start a new position as a Business Development and Marketing Fellow at NCI Technology Transfer Center.