The School of Medicine Basic Sciences is a remarkable community dedicated to advancing the study of human biology, health, and disease. In addition to the award-winning faculty, postdocs, and students who are at the forefront of our cutting-edge research, a large part of our school’s success can be attributed to our staff.
Join us in recognizing and appreciating our staff members and the hard work they do to facilitate the exceptional exploration into basic biomedical science that takes place at our school.
We sat down with Prashant Singh, senior research associate in the lab of Louise B. McGavock Professor of Pharmacology Tina Iverson, to learn more about him and the work he does at Vanderbilt for our school.
How long have you been working for Vanderbilt?
I joined the Iverson lab at Vanderbilt in 2009 as a research assistant, so I have been part of SOMBS for approximately 16 years. Now as a senior research associate, I lead structural biology projects that integrate cryo-electron microscopy, X-ray crystallography, and high-performance computing to reveal how large protein complexes function.
What is a project that you are looking forward to?
I am excited about a collaboration with Caleb Hayes in Vivian Gama’s lab to investigate, using cryo-electron tomography, how mitochondrial proteins are organized to support organelle architecture and function. This work will allow us to visualize these protein complexes in their native cellular context.
What is your favorite project you have completed during your time at the SOMBS?
Solving the high-resolution structure of the bacterial flagellar motor. The project was challenging, but thanks to outstanding team in the lab, the Center for Structural Biology IT group, and the cryo-EM team, we completed it in a remarkably short time.
Who has had a positive impact on your work?
Tina Iverson has been an extraordinary mentor. She trusts me with ambitious ideas, encourages interdisciplinary exploration, and models clear, compassionate leadership.
What professional or personal achievement are you most proud of?
I am proud of receiving Vanderbilt University School of Medicine’s Edward E. Price Jr. Award for Excellence in Basic Science Research in 2025 and Vanderbilt’s Research Excellence Award in 2024.
In 2024, I also appeared on the YouTube channel Smarter Every Day, where host Destin Sandlin talked with me and Tina about bacterial “motors” and how they work in the microorganisms that make us sick. The video had more than 1.4 million views the first day!
View 3-D video of flagella assemby
What is a fun fact about you?
I enjoy high-altitude cycling. The most demanding ride to date was a two-week expedition in the Himalayas, from Manali to Khardung-La, covering more than 50,000 feet of climbing.
What activities to do you like to do outside of work?
I love spending time with my daughter, hiking with my family, and cycling with friends. In some spare time, I like to create scientific animations that translate complex science for broader audiences.
What is your favorite quote?
“I believe in the essential unity of humanity.” – Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi