Current lab members

Research in the Bothner lab is directed toward understanding biological function by investigating systems. This research takes us from the atomic scale provided by high resolution structural models of viruses to the complex interaction networks of nucleic acids, metabolites, and proteins that make up a living system. A diverse set of analytical, biophysical, biochemical, and cell biology techniques are used in the discovery process. Research interests include the assembly and stability of virus particles, extremophiles, metabolomics, proteomics, and transcriptomics. Specific projects under investigation are a system-wide analysis of the cell cellular response to stress of Sulfolobus solfataricus, metabolomic analysis of hemorrhagic shock, novel anti-Hepatitis B compounds, the use of Adeno Associated virus in gene therapy, systems biology of Ignicoccus-Nanoarchaeum mutualism. 
The Bothner lab is part of the Center for Bio-Inspired Nanomaterials and the Thermal Biology Institute.

Being a part of Dr.Bothner’s research group I have the valuable opportunity to contribute to several interesting projects and answer challenging biological questions of crucial importance. My main focus is the physiological response to hemorrhagic shock, identified as one of the leading causes of death in the modern world. The studies are conducted on Sus scrofa (domestic pig) and in collaboration with Dr.Beilman’s group from the University of Minnesota. The research is fascinating as different approaches broaden the scope of our study. We use Mass Spectrometry while our colleagues apply NMR to acquire metabolite profiles derived from different tissues and body fluids collected over a period of time. Experimental design and comprehensive data analysis allows us to trace changes in the vast pool of small molecules after hemorrhage and the subsequent recovery process. Discovery of biomarkers in such conditions will significantly reduce the risk of progression into an irreversible shock and increase the chance of survival in the event of a severe injury.

I joined the Bothner Lab in the fall of 2019. I have learned how to use a variety of mass spectrometry techniques and apply them to my research projects. My projects have ranged from bacterial plastic degradation to the unique iron and sulfur acquisition in archaea. Recently I have been working on how small changes to organisms have dramatic effects on their metalloproteome. Outside of the lab, I can usually be found enjoying nature in the mountains or on a river.

PhD Candidate in the Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry; I study the metabolism of orthopedic tissues including bone, cartilage, synovial fluid, and others during times of health, disease, injury, and aging. To do so I employ mass spectrometry and a multi-omics approach to pinpoint metabolic phenotypes induced by osteoarthritis, identify potential biomarkers, and better understand mechanisms for intervention purposes to slow, stop, and/or reverse disease progression.

20 years of Montana State University pursuits, including several lab technician positions, random classes of interest, and a protracted undergraduate degree in Land Rehabilitation, has imbued Brett with an unwavering love for not only the university, but the environment that is southwest Montana. Upon graduation, Brett began a career as a consulting scientist servicing a wide range of industries with roles in science to business communication and experimental design implementation. After a decade of this, Brett was granted the opportunity to pursue science with the Bothner Group while working toward one of his lifelong goals of earning a PhD. When not learning about applications and methods of mass spectrometry in biochemistry, Brett enjoys time with his wife and two kids or practicing one of the plethora of outdoor activities Montana has to offer.

I grew up in Alaska which instilled me with an everlasting passion for the outdoors. This naturally led to me to discover a love for science and ultimately, to pursue my PhD in biochemistry. My research in the Bothner lab is highly collaborative and diverse - ranging from studying lead exposure on developing brains to extreme biofilms in Yellowstone. As diverse as these projects are, they all are focused around using mass spectrometry and multi-omics based approaches. Outside of the lab, I can be found running, hiking, hunting, and skiing!

I grew up in Laramie, WY where I learned to love the outdoors. That is how I found my way to Bozeman, MT. Currently I work in both the "omics" side of the lab and the "protein dynamics" side with Hunter and Monika. I graduated from Western State Colorado University with my bachelors in Cellular and Molecular Biology/ Pre-medicine.

My name is Cole Kayser, and I’m currently in my junior year of the biochemistry program. My most recent research consists of testing the extent to which arsenic slows cell growth (if I can get them to grow at all). Upon completing my bachelor’s degree, I plan to attend medical school, and fulfill my lifelong dream of becoming a cardiothoracic surgeon. As a Montana native I enjoy a wide variety of outdoor activities such as: hunting, fishing, skiing etc. In addition, I also enjoy lifting weights, and playing sports with friends.

Jadyn (Jay) is a junior undergraduate from Billings, MT double majoring in Biochemistry and Cell Biology and Neuroscience with a minor in China studies. They primarily work with Jenna on the protein dynamics of a novel acetone carboxylase. Outside of the lab, you can find them playing with their cat and listening to music.

4th year undergraduate pursuing a major in Biochemistry; intending to attend medical school after graduation due to interests in women's health and pediatrics. I currently investigate the mechanism of methane production across varying organisms. Methane production was initially believed to be conducted only by a class of archaea, called methanogens, but emerging research indicates that all living organisms may be capable of methane production. This mechanism is suggested to include Fenton chemistry and reactive oxygen species. Through my research, I have employed differential scanning fluorimetry, mass spectrometry, and gas chromatography-flame ionization detection.

Brooklyn is a senior undergraduate student from Kuna, ID studying Cell Biology and Neuroscience. Brooklyn primarily works with James on the AAT and methanogen projects. Outside of the lab Brooklyn loves to play RPG games with her friends, and watch horror movies.

Avery is a senior undergraduate from Kuna, Idaho majoring in Cell Biology & Neuroscience. She primarily works with Hope on some of the osteoarthritis/synovial fluid metabolomics analyses. Outside of the lab, she enjoys creating artwork, reading, and hanging out with friends.