Overview
Dr. Fitzgerald’s research group is focused on studies of protein folding and function. The group utilizes a combination of covalent labeling strategies (e.g. protein amide H/D exchange and methionine oxidiation) and mass spectrometry techniques to investigate the thermodynamic properties of protein folding and ligand binding reactions. Current research efforts involve: (1) the development new biophysical methods that enable protein folding and stability measurements to be performed on the proteomic scale; and (2) the application of these new methods in the areas of disease detection, diagnosis, and therapy.
Current Appointments & Affiliations
Professor of Chemistry
·
2011 - Present
Chemistry,
Trinity College of Arts & Sciences
Chair of Chemistry
·
2024 - Present
Chemistry,
Trinity College of Arts & Sciences
Professor of Biochemistry
·
2011 - Present
Biochemistry,
Basic Science Departments
Recent Publications
Extrinsic and intrinsic factors affect copper-induced protein precipitation across eukaryotic and prokaryotic proteomes.
Journal Article Protein science : a publication of the Protein Society · June 2025 The susceptibility of a protein to aggregation upon exposure to copper ions (Cu) has been recognized as a contributor to Cu-induced cellular dysfunction and toxicity. Different cell types succumb to Cu to varying degrees, indicating innate differences betw ... Full text CiteCovalent inhibition of <i>Plasmodium falciparum</i> Ubc13 impairs global protein synthesis.
Journal Article iScience · June 2025 The ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme 13 (Ubc13) has an essential function and putative role in artemisinin activity against Plasmodium falciparum. Ubc13 conjugates lysine 63-linked ubiquitin (K63-Ub) to proteins, but the role of this modification in ... Full text CiteSmall molecules reveal differential shifts in stability and protein binding for G-quadruplex RNA.
Preprint · February 12, 2025 Full text Link to item CiteRecent Grants
Chemical Biology Strategies to Resolve Plasmodium Heat Shock Protein Function
ResearchCo Investigator · Awarded by National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases · 2023 - 2028Elucidating the Molecular Basis of Cellular Metal Stress by using Mass Spectrometry-Based Proteomic Methods
ResearchCo-Principal Investigator · Awarded by National Institute of General Medical Sciences · 2022 - 2026MRI: Acquisition of a Microscale Thermophoresis System
EquipmentMajor User · Awarded by National Science Foundation · 2022 - 2025View All Grants
Education, Training & Certifications
University of Wisconsin, Madison ·
1994
Ph.D.
Davidson College ·
1989
B.S.