What We Do

The Niemi lab explores the mechanisms and physiology of mitochondrial regulation.

Our Mission

Dysfunctional mitochondria are a hallmark of human disease, documented in diseases ranging from inborn errors of metabolism to obesity, cancer, and cardiovascular disease. Our research seeks to make fundamental discoveries about how these organelles are made and regulated, and to exploit these insights into new options for enhancing or restoring mitochondrial function across human disease.

“Fully deciphering [mitochondrial] pathogenesis is a challenging next step that will inspire the development of drug treatments for rare and common diseases.”

— Vafai and Mootha, Nature 491 p. 374-383 (2012).

How we do science

• We blend multiple approaches (e.g. biochemistry, cell biology, genetics, multi-omics, physiology) to understand mitochondrial biology from the organellar to organismal level.

• We routinely draw on mental models and thought experiments to complement experiments being done in the lab, allowing these insights to guide our next steps, address and minimize biases, and identify alternative interpretations of our data.

• Beyond our discoveries, we value an inclusive and welcoming lab culture, and place substantial value on mentorship, collegiality, and collaboration.

• We consistently work on cultivating independence, creativity, curiosity, and perseverance in our lab members, and actively try to grow in these areas as a team.