Martin Hoberman

Assisting Pharmacology & Biomarkers Teams.

At the Frydman Lab, I investigated how mutant huntingtin disrupts co-translational folding and triggers ribosome stalling—processes linked to neurodegenerative diseases such as Huntington’s. My work included designing and cloning genetic constructs, expressing and purifying proteins, and employing fluorescence-based assays and western blotting to analyze protein behavior. Additionally, I cultured mammalian cells and used fluorescence microscopy to study how nascent polypeptide chains, RQC factors, and chaperones interact on the ribosome. By exploring these mechanisms, I aimed to uncover how cells cope with proteotoxic stress and identify potential targets to mitigate neurodegeneration.

I co-founded Xenos Therapeutics after winning Stanford’s ChemH Undergraduate Entrepreneurship Competition, securing $50K in funding to address the critical need for new antifungal treatments. Our team identified a novel methyltransferase as a promising target due to its essential function, structural uniqueness, and conservation across pathogenic fungi. We used transgenic expression to purify our target from Candida auris, developed specialized luciferase and bodipy based assays to measure activity, and carried out an in silico screen for potential inhibitors. Currently, we’re synthesizing substrates to evaluate lead compounds for biochemical efficacy and human toxicity. The ultimate goal is to create a pipeline of antifungal therapies that combat drug resistance and pandemic-level fungal threats.

During my summer at Metagenomi, I focused on optimizing lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulations for delivering CRISPR-based gene therapies. My responsibilities included refining nanoparticle composition, adjusting fabrication parameters, and assessing transfection efficiency in liver cell models. Working closely with cross-functional teams, I integrated data on particle stability, biodistribution, and gene editing outcomes to guide iterative improvements.

I co-founded White Tents to create a unified digital vaccine passport that consolidates immunization records across different healthcare systems. After raising $250K from the Eretz.bio fund and collaborating with Einstein Hospital and Optum, we deployed the platform to over 50,000 users in São Paulo. Beyond vaccine records, we designed modules for parents managing their children’s immunizations, employers tracking staff compliance, and venues verifying customer statuses. Ultimately, I handed the project over to Einstein Hospital, where it continues to streamline vaccination workflows and enhance public health coordination.

During my time at DASA I worked at GeneOne, their genetic diagnostics subsidiary. I principally worked on validating and implementing MLPA diagnostic exams. I also studied the feasibility and applications of RNASeq in the clinical diagnosis of genetic and epigenetic-linked diseases.

Starting in high school, I investigated how cancerous cells release extracellular vesicles (EVs) loaded with miRNAs that hinder dendritic cell function—research published in Nature Scientific Reports. I performed cell culture, RNA sequencing, and designed synthetic vesicles to explore immune evasion mechanisms. Simultaneously, I studied meropenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae in clinical settings by applying sequencing and pulse-field gel electrophoresis, contributing to a Frontiers in Microbiology publication. These projects advanced our knowledge of both oncological immune escape and the spread of antibiotic resistance in hospital environments.