Dr. Eva Nogales is a structural biologist whose pioneering work in cryo-electron microscopy has revealed the intricate architecture of cellular machinery. Her research has provided groundbreaking insights into how macromolecules function, shaping our understanding of processes such as gene expression, cell division, and disease mechanisms.

I photographed Nogales on August 23, 2023, at Stanley Hall, where we made portraits in her office and laboratory. The setting was fitting for a scientist whose work bridges fundamental biology with cutting-edge imaging technology. In our conversation, she spoke of the evolution of structural biology, the breakthroughs in imaging that have allowed researchers to visualize biological processes with unprecedented clarity, and the excitement of pushing the boundaries of what can be seen at the molecular level.

Nogales is best known for her contributions to elucidating the structure of microtubules, the cytoskeletal components essential for cell division and intracellular transport. Her work has had profound implications for cancer research, as microtubules are key targets for chemotherapeutic drugs. By combining biophysics, computational analysis, and molecular biology, she has expanded the limits of what can be understood at the molecular scale, offering new perspectives on fundamental biological questions.

Beyond her research, Nogales is a leader in the scientific community, advocating for diversity in STEM and mentoring the next generation of researchers. Her ability to communicate complex science with clarity and enthusiasm makes her a compelling presence, both in the lab and in broader discussions about the future of molecular biology.

With each new discovery, Nogales continues to push the boundaries of structural biology, demonstrating how visualizing life at the smallest scales can unlock answers to some of biology’s biggest questions.