MSL 2024 and BMB 2021 Graduate receives Governor General’s Gold Medal: Q&A with Jorge Holguín Cruz

As you take on this new role as the department head, what excites you the most?

I am thrilled to collaborate with a talented team of faculty dedicated to advancing scientific knowledge and pioneering innovative methods to train the next generation of scientists and entrepreneurs. I am particularly excited about our recent data science teaching initiative, especially given this year’s Nobel laureates in Chemistry, who are leading the way in applying generative AI to protein biochemistry. Looking ahead, I hope to expand our expertise further through new recruitments in generative AI. Additionally, our ongoing recruitment efforts in nanomedicine are equally exciting, and I’m enthusiastic about the potential new faculty members bring. 

How would you describe your leadership style in a few words?

I enjoy leading in a team, and I have a fantastic executive team with Dr. Scott Covey and Zaira Khan. They possess expertise in many areas where I may not be as knowledgeable, which is why I believe in delegating tasks to those who are better suited for them. That said, I am always willing to make decisions when necessary. 

What sparked your interest in the field of computational biochemistry?

Although I earned a medical degree, I was always drawn to physics and fundamental sciences. When the chance to pursue an MD-PhD came up, I considered joining a renowned NMR spectroscopy lab at ETH Zurich, which had recently determined the structure of the mammalian prion protein. However, I soon discovered the emerging field of molecular modeling and simulations and became fascinated by the ability to simulate protein behavior using basic physical laws—a fascination that has stayed with me to this day.

Please share an overview of your current research?

We are keen to explore how protein structure and function—especially their interactions—contribute to cellular phenotypes and how defects in these interactions can lead to human diseases. Our research specifically focuses on intrinsically disordered proteins and their connections to cancer and neurodegeneration.  We continue to utilize molecular modeling and simulations as valuable tools. Additionally, we develop and apply various bioinformatics approaches to study proteins. Recent advancements in generative AI, such as AlphaFold, have opened up a wealth of new opportunities that we are eager to leverage.

In your opinion, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a professor and principal investigator?

The most rewarding aspect of my work is witnessing my students and trainees grow both as scientists and as individuals. If I am able to inspire them, and they later share that I’ve influenced their scientific perspective or career choices, it brings me immense satisfaction.

How do you stay inspired and motivated after many years in your field?

I have an intrinsic eagerness to learn and understand the world. I also strive to follow the advice of my philosophy teacher: ‘Never lose your childlike wonder for the world.’

What’s your favourite way to unwind after a long day?

I enjoy running and reading, and I always keep a few books on my nightstand. I have a particular fondness for classic novels. Currently, I’m reading Midnight’s Children
 by Salman Rushdie

What is your favourite quote, and why does it resonate with you?

I’m not sure I have a single favorite quote, but I do have a favorite quote donor: Winston Churchill. He is known for many inspiring sayings, though some may not align with today’s standards of political correctness. His wit often brings a smile to my face. Here are three of his quotes that I particularly enjoy:

“To improve is to change, so to be perfect is to change often”
“The price of greatness is responsibility.”
“You have enemies? Good. That means you’ve stood up for something in your life“

Winston Churchill

If you could have dinner with anyone, living or dead, who would it be and why?

Probably my dad. He passed away when I was 25, and I would love to talk with him now about our lives