Ruben L Gonzalez, Jr.

Ruben L. Gonzalez Jr. is a Professor of Chemistry at Columbia University in the City of New York.13 Here's a comprehensive overview of his background and work:

Academic Career

Ruben Gonzalez joined the Department of Chemistry at Columbia University as an Assistant Professor in 2006 and has since been promoted to Associate Professor.6 He is also affiliated with Columbia University Irving Medical Center and NewYork-Presbyterian.4

Research Focus

Professor Gonzalez's research primarily centers on biophysical chemistry and the study of biomolecular structure and function.1 As the founder and principal investigator of The Gonzalez Laboratory, he leads a team of interdisciplinary researchers, including chemists, biologists, physicists, and computer scientists.1 Their work focuses on:

• Molecular mechanisms of gene expression
• Antibiotic activity and resistance
• Cancer research
• Projects related to coronavirus and COVID-19

The lab specializes in studying the thermodynamics, kinetics, and structures of biomolecular assemblies and molecular motors.2

Expertise and Techniques

Gonzalez is known for his expertise in single-molecule biophysics, structural biology, and biochemistry.35 He gained recognition for his ability to build and use advanced microscopes that could look at single molecules, a skill that was instrumental in his appointment at Columbia.1

Teaching

In addition to his research, Gonzalez is deeply committed to education. He teaches general and honors-level chemistry to first-year students and has also been involved in developing lectures for the Frontiers of Science course.1

Background and Education

• Gonzalez is a first-generation Cuban-American who grew up in Miami.1
• He developed a passion for science in high school, inspired by a chemistry teacher who taught the subject through a biological lens.1
• He conducted undergraduate research at Florida International University.1
• Gonzalez earned his Ph.D. in biophysical chemistry from UC Berkeley in 2000.1
• He completed his postdoctoral work at Stanford University.1

Advocacy for Diversity in STEM

As a first-generation immigrant, Gonzalez is a strong advocate for increasing diversity in STEM fields. He works to address systemic barriers in academia, such as overreliance on standardized test scores for admissions.1

Personal Life

Gonzalez resides in Riverdale with his wife and two children. He enjoys cycling, running, camping with his family, and cooking, especially Cuban cuisine. He also grows vegetables in his backyard.1