Uchenna Nwaege

I am a Biophysics PhD Candidate at the University of Michigan.
My research focuses on applying computational and biophysical methods to understand complex biological systems, with a focus on viral assembly for gene therapy applications. 🧬

About Me

I graduated from the University of California, Riverside with a B.S. in Physics. My training in the physical sciences sparked my interest in applying quantitative, data-driven methods to solve biological problems. This passion led me to pursue a PhD in Biophysics at the University of Michigan.

I am passionate about operating at the intersection of physics, biology, and computation to uncover the mechanisms behind complex biological systems.

Research & Industry Experience

My work has centered on using computational and quantitative techniques to answer fundamental biological questions.

AAV Capsid Assembly (PhD Research)

In the Maurer Lab, I study the assembly process of Adeno-Associated Viruses (AAVs), a leading vector for gene therapy. My work uses biophysical tools to improve the efficiency and yield of therapeutic vectors.

Pathogen Mutation Rates (Undergraduate Research)

I developed computational methods to infer mutation rates in pathogens. This project at the UCR Barton Lab gave me foundational experience in computational biology and evolutionary dynamics.

Protein Function Prediction (REU)

During a summer REU at the University of Washington, I applied neural networks and machine learning models to identify and classify proteins of unknown function from sequence data.

Data Engineering (Industry)

At Nadeau Corporation, I designed and maintained databases and reporting software to improve data accessibility and streamline operations for the company.

Presentations & Awards

Selected Presentations

  • Society for Molecular Biology and Evolution (2023)
  • American Physical Society (2023)
  • SACNAS (2022)
  • University of Washington REU Symposium (2022)
  • ABRCMS (2021)

Selected Awards

  • NIH T32 Training Grant in Molecular Biophysics (2025)
  • University of Michigan Rackham Fellowship Award (2023)
  • SMBE Travel Scholarship (2023)
  • NIH MARC T34 Fellowship (2021-2023)
  • NSF Summer Research Experience for Undergraduates (2022)

Get in touch

Feel free to reach out via email or connect with me on professional networks.