The Shurer Lab Team

Carolyn Shurer

Assistant Professor

Academic Background: B.S. in Chemical Engineering from Virginia Tech, Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from Cornell University (Paszek Lab), and post-doctoral positions at the University of Texas Health Science Center and the University of Virginia (Levental Lab).

Research Interests: My work explores the intricate interplay between the glycocalyx, a complex carbohydrate layer on cell surfaces, and membrane lipids to reveal their roles in cellular organization, signaling, and protein trafficking. We will merge these two areas to innovate therapeutics and biomanufacturing. 

Outside the lab: When I’m not in the lab, you’ll usually find me with knitting needles in hand or tending to my growing collection of houseplants. 

Alyssa Ward

Post-Doctoral Research Associate, Joined Spring 2026

Academic Background: Associate of Science concentrating in Pre-Health from Cleveland State Community College, Cleveland, TN (2016), B.S. in Chemistry and Biology from Maryville College, Maryville, TN (2019). Ph.D. in Biochemistry & Cellular and Molecular Biology from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (2025).

Research Interest: My research interests have revolved around membrane-protein and protein-protein interactions. During my undergraduate research, we investigated the impact of a secreted platelet protein on the kinetics of thrombin/fibrinogen-driven coagulation (Mentor: Dr. Gibson at Maryville College). I continued on to study protein-membrane interactions in my dissertation research, specifically on how native-like and altered lipid environments modulate receptor tyrosine kinase activity. Continuing on this path, I am excited to now be studying how the glycocalyx modulates cellular processes and disease.

Outside the lab: When the lab gloves are off, I can usually be found in the gym, on the mats in ju-jitsu, kali sticks in hand, climbing, or out on a hike. Alternatively, I’m tending to an apartment overflowing with plants, chasing down my gecko, being stared at by turtles, or more simply with a good book hand.

Ayesha Amin

PhD  Candidate, Joined Fall 2026

Academic Background: B.S in Chemical Engineering (2022), Western Michigan University. M.S in Chemical Engineering (2025), University of Tennessee. 

Research Interest: My research interests include model membrane systems and the characterization of their physical and electrical properties. I am interested in understanding how membrane properties influence interactions with proteins and ultimately membrane structure and function.

Outside the lab: I love reading books, experimenting in the kitchen and exploring new places whenever I can. 

Abigail Olson

PhD Student, Joined Fall 2025

Academic Background: B.S. in Chemical Engineering with a minor in Mathematics (2025), University of Rhode Island. Undergraduate research in the characterization of biogenically produced nanoparticles.

Research Interests: Interests include membrane synthesis, specifically how the glycocalyx can regulate membrane curvature and its influence on cell function and disease progression.

Highlights: Organized AIChE’s Eckhardt Northeast Student Regional Conference (2025).

Outside the lab: Abby enjoys reading a good romance book and doing a puzzle while watching true crime documentaries.

Amelia Hughes

Undergraduate Research Assistant, Joined Spring 2026

Academic Background: 

A Chancellor's Honors student pursuing a B.S. in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering with a minor in pre-health studies at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.

Outside the lab:  Amelia enjoys spending time exploring the outdoors, crafting, and watching critically-acclaimed movies.

Andrew Rack

Undergraduate Research Assistant, Joined Spring 2026

Academic Background: 

Pursuing a B.S. in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.

Outside the lab:  Andrew enjoys hiking, running with friends, baking, reading historical dramas, and maintaining webpages.

Anneke Roark

Undergraduate Research Assistant, Joined Spring 2026

Academic Background: 

A Chancellor's and Cook Grand Honors student pursuing a B.S. in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering with a minor in English at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.

Outside the lab: Anneke enjoys going on long walks, cooking, and journaling. 

Riese Huckaby

Undergraduate Research Assistant, Joined Spring 2026

Academic Background: 

Pursuing a B.S. in Chemical Engineering with a minor in Enviromental Engineering at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.

Outside the lab:  Riese enjoys crocheting, reading, and hiking.