Understanding how molecular machines move and assemble in living cells at the nanoscale remains one of the major challenges in structural biology. Postdoc Zach Marin addresses this by accelerating advanced super-resolution microscopy, combining 4Pi single-molecule localization microscopy with a new deep-learning–based analysis approach to significantly increase imaging speed. Within his project, Zach aims to observe clathrin-mediated endocytosis – a key cellular process used to import nutrients, signals, and drugs – directly in living cells. “Being able to capture subcellular processes as they happen will help us to understand how these molecular structures assemble and reorganize inside cells”, explains Zach. “By increasing the speed of super-resolution imaging, we hope to reveal dynamics that were previously impossible to observe.”
Zach Marin studied Mathematics and Bioengineering at the University of Maine in Orono, USA, before earning his PhD in Biomedical Engineering from Yale University. After a postdoctoral position at UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, he joined the Ries lab at the Perutz in 2024, where he now continues his research on advanced imaging approaches to study cellular dynamics.
About the ESPRIT fellowship
The ESPRIT (Early-Stage Program: Research – Innovation – Training) fellowship supports outstanding early-career postdoctoral researchers across all disciplines in conducting independent research in Austria. The program aims to foster innovative science while strengthening research institutions by attracting and retaining top international talent. In addition, ESPRIT supports researchers in developing their own scientific profile and advancing their careers through independent projects. Fellowships are awarded for up to 36 months and cover the project leader’s salary as well as project-related research expenses.