Decoding molecular mysteries

Dr. Shifra Lansky’s journey into the world of structural biology began with a fascination for biology that initially drew her toward a medical career. As she delved deeper into the complexities of living organisms, she found herself captivated by the intricate mechanisms at work within them. This shift in focus led her to embrace research, where she could explore these dynamics more profoundly, eventually leading her to the Weizmann Institute of Science. 

As a principal investigator in the Department of Chemical and Structural Biology, Dr. Lansky employs cutting‑edge techniques like cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo‑EM) and high-speed atomic force microscopy (AFM) to study membrane protein dynamics. Emerging as a leader in her field, Dr. Lansky’s work advances our understanding of biological systems, highlighting the transformative power of curiosity and technology in pursuing exceptional science.

The basics of life

Her passion as a student led her to pursue a PhD in protein X‑ray crystallography at The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, where she was mentored by Prof. Gil Shoham. 

“The research I conducted with Prof. Shoham and the many exciting scientific discussions I had with him first inspired me to continue in the scientific research path, and first shaped my interest in the mechanistic study of proteins,” she reflects. During her PhD studies, she made significant strides in protein X‑ray crystallography, eventually deciphering the static structures of many different proteins and providing critical insights into their basic mechanisms. 

She then began a postdoctoral fellowship at Weill Cornell Medicine in New York, where, under the guidance of Prof. Simon Scheuring, she expanded her research to include ion channel proteins, leveraging the cutting‑edge high‑speed AFM technique to explore further their dynamic activity. “Prof. Scheuring is responsible for the scientific trajectory my career is currently taking, and was and still is incredibly supportive of me,” Dr. Lansky says.

From images to action

High-speed AFM allows researchers to capture proteins’ movements and interactions with their environment. 

“Imagine observing proteins in action; it’s like watching a video rather than being limited to a snapshot!” she explains. “Let’s say you want to learn to walk; you can only gain so much information by looking at an image. A video, on the other hand, gives you much more insight into complex movements.”

Using high-speed AFM, she uncovered a rare and transient state of the membrane protein responsible for our sensation of temperature, providing unprecedented insights into its functional mechanisms at the single‑molecule level. These findings, complemented by cryo-EM experiments that provide high resolution structural information of membrane proteins, revealed unexpected structural rearrangements of the protein’s subunit configuration that may be critical for our regulation of temperature sensation. 

“X-ray crystallography paved the way for cryo‑EM. Cryo‑EM allows us now to see membrane protein structure in their natural environments with unprecedented clarity,” she explains. Recently published in Nature, her findings challenge conventional understanding and offer new avenues for exploring the role of ion channels in cellular physiology and disease.

Keeping proteins functioning
 

Dr. Lansky is optimistic about the impact her research could have on medicine. By elucidating the structural dynamics of membrane proteins, her work offers key insights for developing targeted therapies that modulate protein function. Understanding these mechanisms is vital for addressing diseases linked to protein dysfunction, providing hope for innovative treatments and personalized medicine.

“Proteins function as intricate molecular machines, governing essential bodily functions. Many diseases stem from protein malfunctions. To effectively address these issues, we must first understand their operations in optimal, healthy states. There is much to be gained here—for science and medicine,” she emphasizes.

Outside the lab, Dr. Lansky, an accomplished violin player, finds harmony in a life blending science and music, and she and her husband are the devoted parents of two young children. “There’s much to appreciate about the Weizmann campus—dedication to cutting-edge scientific research is strongly promoted here. I also value the highly collaborative environment, the impressive array of scientific facilities and equipment, and the international community,” she says. 

“My advice to others interested in science is to follow your heart and find research that excites and motivates you. Passion will help you navigate the challenges of a scientific career.”

Education and select awards

• BSc, summa cum laude, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem (2013)
• PhD, Hebrew University (2019)
• Postdoctoral Fellow, Weill Cornell Medicine (2020-2024)
• Azrieli Graduate Studies Fellowship (2015-2018), The Hebrew University Post-Doctoral Scholarship for Excellent Female Students (2019-2020), Rothschild Fellowship for Postdoctoral Studies (2019-2020), Zuckerman STEM Leadership Program (2019-2020), Women’s Postdoctoral Career Development Award in Science (2022-2023), Alon Scholarship for Outstanding Young Faculty Members (2024-2026).