Faculty Profile

Biography

Lia R. Edmunds, Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, with expertise in molecular genetics, mitochondrial biology, and metabolic disease mechanisms. Dr. Edmunds has contributed to more than 23 peer-reviewed publications, collaborating on studies of insulin sensitivity, nutrient flux, and the molecular underpinnings of cancer metabolism and hepatic steatosis.

Dr. Edmunds began her scientific career with graduate research in the laboratory of Dr. Edward Prochownik, where she examined how metabolic stress interfaces with oncogenic signaling. She then expanded her work under Dr. Michael Jurczak, focusing on insulin signaling pathways, mitochondrial overload, and metabolic dysfunction. Most recently, she has applied her technical and scientific experience in industry roles at Azenta, supporting large-scale laboratory workflows, client-facing scientific problem-solving, and precision sample management.

Her research interests include mitochondrial function in nutrient-stressed cells, the role of metabolic signaling in enteroendocrine and enterochromaffin cell biology, and bench-to-bedside approaches for improving metabolic health. She is passionate about bridging fundamental molecular science with applied biomedical solutions, contributing to both scientific innovation and improved patient outcomes.