Aastha Garde

I obtained my Ph.D in Cell Biology at Duke University in the lab of Dr. David Sherwood. In the Sherwood lab, I used confocal microscopy and small-molecule biosensors to understand how cells power invasion through the physical barriers posed by extracellular matrix, a key behavior in the progression of cancer metastasis.

I joined the Jonikas lab in the fall of 2022 to apply my love of cell biology and cellular dynamics to studying the inner workings of the algal pyrenoid. The pyrenoid is a membrane-less organelle that is responsible for fixing one-third of global CO2 and improving our basic understanding of its biogenesis and function will allow us to transform global food supply. In addition to research, I’m passionate about honing my teaching skills and building inclusive teaching and research environments. Outside the lab I like to contra dance, hike, and do a variety of fiber crafts.