Jason Kaelber

Kaelber is a structural virologist who combines experimental and computational tools for understanding the chemical basis of viral processes. He invents new virus-inspired gene therapy vectors through structure-based computational design and tests them in the lab. He investigates mechanisms of virus entry, gene delivery, assembly, and genome packaging through cryo-electron microscopy (cryoEM) methods, including in situcryo-electron tomography. Dr. Kaelber also takes a Data Science approach to the origins of the first viruses and the early evolution of life.
Dr. Kaelber directs the Rutgers CryoEM & Nanoimaging Facility (RCNF). The RCNF supports researchers at Rutgers and around the country in techniques such as intracellular cryo-electron tomography and atomic-resolution cryo-electron microscopy. With funding from the Chancellor’s office, Dr. Kaelber and colleagues are creating a hands-on training avenue through the Platform for Education and Research Cores program. Professionals and students alike can become experts in cryo-electron microscopy. Additionally, Dr. Kaelber participates in projects of the Ecosystem for Research Networking to develop software infrastructure for scientific instrumentation, including edge computing.