Mastery of Enzyme Engineering

Traveling through the picturesque landscapes of California’s Napa Valley, 6-year-old David Kastner delves into deep discussions with his father about topics ranging from gravity to electromagnetism. His fascination with the intricacies of the universe has been a cornerstone of their conversations during these journeys.

“The complexity of the universe and humanity’s limited knowledge of it always intrigued me,” recounts Kastner, now a fourth-year PhD student in bioengineering. “I’ve had a constant desire to unveil new truths about the cosmos.”

Fast forward nearly twenty years, and Kastner finds himself at MIT, focusing on the intricate world of metalloenzymes under the guidance of Heather Kulik, a distinguished professor of chemical engineering, and Forest White, an esteemed professor of biological engineering. Driven by the same inquisitiveness that ignited those car ride dialogues, Kastner aims to explore the chemical and medical potentials of enzymes through computational and mechanistic avenues.

Kastner’s research endeavors to uncover the foundational principles of enzyme reactivity using cutting-edge computational techniques. Beyond the realms of physics, chemistry, and biology, he infuses art into his scientific journey, a passion ingrained in him since childhood. Through visually stunning 3D depictions of molecular systems, Kastner bridges the gap, making his research accessible to a broader audience.

“Visualizing science in a tangible and realistic manner through illustrations can often leave a more lasting impact than traditional scientific plots or graphics,” he asserts. “Engaging storytelling through art could potentially attract more individuals towards scientific exploration.”