Irina Minko, Ph.D.
Staff Scientist
Research Interests
The main focus of Irina’s research is on the biochemistry and genetics of DNA damage repair and the replication of damaged DNA. She is interested in understanding the molecular mechanisms responsible for the genotoxic and mutagenic effects of DNA damaging agents and the biological pathways that counteract the deleterious consequences of DNA damage. Her current projects include characterization of the mutagenic properties of DNA adducts that are induced by common anti-cancer agents and development of new approaches for studying DNA damage-induced mutagenesis.
Education
Ph.D. in Biochemistry, A. N. Bakh Institute of Biochemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia, 1992
Diploma in Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, (equivalent of a Master of Science Degree), summa cum laude, 1984
Professional Experience
2003-present - Staff Scientist, Oregon Institute of Occupational Health Sciences, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR
2002-2003 - Scientist, Sealy Center for Molecular Science, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX
1999-2002 Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Sealy Center for Molecular Science, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX Mentor – Dr. R. Stephen Lloyd
1997-98 - Postdoctoral Research Fellow (NSF-NATO Postdoctoral Fellowship), Department of Botany, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX Mentor – Dr. David L. Herrin
1992-2001 - Scientist, A. N. Bakh Institute of Biochemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
1990-92 - Research Associate, A. N. Bakh Institute of Biochemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
1986-90 - Postgraduate Student, A. N. Bakh Institute of Biochemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
Mentors – Drs. I. I. Filippovich & V. R. Shatilov
Publications