Taylor Schoberle

Current/NY-CAPS Placement: Department of Molecular Genetics & Microbiology, Stony Brook University
NY-CAPS Research Mentor: Dr. James Bliska

Current Position: Adjunct Faculty at St. Edward's University

Taylor Schoberle’s current research focuses on the Type III Secretion system in Yersinia pestis, the etiological agent of the Plague.  Y. pestis, as well as numerous other gram negative bacteria, utilize a Type III Secretion system to combat immune cells when invading a host.  Upon induction, assembly of this Type III Secretion system commences to form a hollow needle-like complex of proteins.  This needle complex is responsible for injecting effector proteins (Yops) into host cells.  Once inside host cells, these Yops interfere with multiple cell functions to deter an immune response against invading bacteria.  Taylor began her training in the biological sciences at Southwestern University, where she earned a B.A. in Biology with a minor in French.  She moved on to MD Anderson Cancer Center and the University of Texas Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences in Houston to earn an M.A. in Molecular Biology and Genes and Development, followed by a Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences.  Although her graduate research focused on toxin production in Aspergillus fumigatus, a filamentous fungus, she has successfully carried her lab techniques and knowledge into her current post doctoral position as a NY-CAPS scholar in Dr. James Bliska’s lab at Stony Brook University.

Why I chose to join IRACDA NY-CAPS

I chose to join IRACDA NY-CAPS for two reasons.  Firstly, I joined the program to gain valuable experience in teaching and mentoring.  I appreciate the fact that our program works with three different undergraduate institutions, which not only gives us a choice on placement, but allows us the chance to experience unique environments in the classroom.  Secondly, I joined the program to benefit from bringing my own money to the lab.  This opportunity gave me the chance to work in the lab of my choice and will also be a welcome addition to my CV for future job opportunities.