Iwata-Reuyl Lab Members

Dr. Dirk Iwata-Reuyl

Professor of Chemistry
Ph.D. | The Johns Hopkins University, 1992
Post-Doctoral Research Fellow 1992-1994, University of Utah

503-725-5737
iwatareuyld@pdx.edu
Research Lab Homepage

Andrew Buckley

PhD Candidate

As a member of the Iwata-Reuyl research group, I study the DpdC-catalyzed conversion of dPreQ0 to dADG – two structurally complex modified nucleosides found in DNA. Prior to joining the PSU Chemistry Department, I was a graduate student at CSULB where I attempted to incorporate unnatural amino acids into peptides via SPPS. While a Geology/Paleobiology undergraduate at UCLA, I developed an interest in astrobiology that has guided my academic decisions and career plans ever since.

Samanthi Herath Gedara

PhD Candidate

Samanthi is a graduate student in the Iwata-Reuyl lab. Her primary research focus is understanding the formation of 7-deazaguanine based DNA modifications. She is also the graduate assistant in the PSU's Bioanalytical Mass Spectral Facility. Her primary duties include LC-MS/MS instrumentation, assisting training for new users, and assisting investigators with projects involving LC-MS. Samanthi is originally from Sri Lanka. She graduated with a BS in chemistry from Georgia College & State University. She earned her MS in chemistry from Eastern Michigan University. She worked in a biotech company and a pharmaceutical company, before joining the PSU chemistry department as a graduate student. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, cooking Sri Lankan dishes, and traveling.
 

Danesh (Dan) Khazaei

PhD Candidate

Dan is a first-year graduate student in the Iwata-Reuyl lab, where he is currently investigating the chemistry and function of the DNA-binding protein DpdB. After earning his B.S. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from Linfield University, Dan returned to Portland to pursue his doctoral studies in biochemistry. Outside of the lab, he enjoys staying active, spending time with friends and family, and learning new languages. 
 

Aaron Mbwirire

PhD Candidate

Aaron Mbwirire (he/him) is a member of the Iwata-Reuyl research group, his current studies  focus on understanding the chemical mechanisms and sequence-specificity of bacteriophage 7-Deazaguanine-based DNA modification systems to elucidate its chemistry that differentiates it from bacterial DNA modifications systems. He graduated with a BSc in Applied Biology and Biochemistry, worked on drug combinations that attain fractional inhibitory concentrations against UTI causing bacteria. He furthered studies attaining a MSc in Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology, researching on metal- tolerant bacteria and chromium bioremediation. 

Erik Scheleen

PhD Candidate

Erik Scheleen (he/him) is a chemistry Ph.D. in the Dr. Iwata-Reuyl research group. His research is focused on understanding enzyme substrate recognition and the enzymatic mechanism of the threonylcarbamoyl adenosine modification of tRNA. His background is varied with over 5 years of experience in software development including backend development as well as an undergraduate degree in renewable energy engineering with a primary focus on power systems and controls.