Lindsay Case, Ph.D.
email: lcase [at] mit.edu
I joined the MIT Biology Department in 2021. I am excited to develop new approaches to visualize signaling in synthetic systems and in living cells. In my free time, I enjoy exploring New England with my husband Chris – we are always on the hunt for good dog-friendly hiking trails!
Aya Abukwaik
MSRP Summer Student
I am a rising senior at Colby College joining the Case Lab as part of the 2026 MIT Summer Research Program (MSRP). My project investigates the molecular grammar of GAB1 in EGFR phase separation in vitro and in silico. Outside the lab, I enjoy exploring new places, cooking, and traveling.
Xiaohang Cheng, Ph.D.
Postdoctoral Fellow (AHA)
email: xiaohang [at] mit.edu
I am studying how certain phase separated proteins contribute to mechanotransduction in focal adhesions. I’m using biochemical reconstitution methods to measure the material properties of phase separated condensates in vitro, and cell based assays to understand how material properties are linked to cellular behaviors in vivo. Outside of lab I enjoy outdoor activities.
Valerie Corapi
Administrative Assistant
email: vcorapi [at] mit.edu
Nick Lea
Research SpecialistGraduate Student (Biology)
email: leani [at] mit.edu
I defended my PhD in April 2026, and am working in the lab as a research specialist while I finish wrapping up projects.
Brunnet Makava
MSRP Summer student
A Biochemistry and Molecular Biology undergraduate from the University of Richmond. This summer I am investigating the role of mRNA proteins in Focal adhesion dynamics. I love swimming, walking, dancing, and trying out new things.
Jibin Sadasivan, Ph.D.
Postdoctoral Associate
email: jibin [at] mit.edu
In the Case lab, I am investigating crosstalk between biomolecular condensates, focusing on focal adhesions and stress granules. Outside of the lab, I enjoy hiking, watching TV shows, and spending time with friends and family.
Yunyi Ling
UROP Student
I am a first-year undergraduate at MIT planning on studying biochemistry and artificial intelligence. I joined the Case Lab in August 2025, and I will be investigating phase separation in the protein talin. Outside of lab work, I enjoy tennis, piano, and fishing.
Katie Stratton
Research Technician
email: kstratto [at] mit.edu
I joined the Case Lab in June of 2023. As an undergrad at WPI, I was interested in cell signaling both within and between cells. Outside of the lab I enjoy theatre, spending time with friends, cooking, and annoying my adorable cats, Max and Molly.
Dustin Tillman
Postdoctoral Fellow (NCC)
email: dtillman [at] mit.edu
I am investigating how phase separation of cell surface receptors regulates activation of downstream signaling, and how dysregulation of this process might contribute to cancer, particularly in the nervous system. I love to read for pleasure, and stay active via volleyball, basketball, and running.
Kyle White
Graduate Student (Biology)
email: kwhite53 [at] mit.edu
I am a graduate student in the Case Lab, and I am using structural and biophysical techniques to study how biomolecular condensates are nucleated and organized. During my time as an undergraduate at University of Minnesota Twin Cities, I studied in vitro microtubule dynamics. During my free time, I enjoy going to the gym, hanging out with my cats, playing piano, and hiking.
Chunlei Zhang
Postdoctoral Associate
email: chunlei [at] mit.edu
I am interested in understanding how metabolism and biomolecular phase separation coordinate cellular mechanotransduction. My research focuses on how glycolytic enzymes organize into phase-separated assemblies at focal adhesions and how these condensates regulate cell adhesion, migration, and signaling. Outside of the lab, I enjoy playing badminton, traveling, and exploring new places and trying new things.
Shiva the minipoodle
Lab CCO (Chief Canine Officer)
As the chief canine officer, I support the research by providing cuddles and emotional support during grant writing. I am passionate about lab security and make an effort to bark at everyone walking by the office.
We encourage an environment of collaboration, welcome diversity, and aim to be inclusive in recruiting, training, and mentoring.
