Fengoula Avgeri

Fengoula Avgeri joined our lab as a postdoctoral fellow in March 2026. She completed her PhD at the University of Athens, Greece, where she uncovered a novel connection between the evolutionarily conserved AAA protease Lon1 and the regulation of mitochondrial gene expression via PPR-mediated RNA processing in plant mitochondria. In recognition of her engagement in the plant science community, Fengoula was selected as a 2026 Plantae Fellow by the American Society of Plant Biologists.

Her current research focuses on the molecular mechanisms of mitochondrial protein quality control during ageing. Using the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae as her primary model organism, she combines advanced genetics with a broad spectrum of biochemical approaches and flow cytometry. Through this integrative strategy, she investigates how specific protein quality control systems function and how they influence cellular health over time.

When not immersed in research, Fengoula loves exploring nature on long hikes, reading literature, and gardening.