Matt Stefely is a senior majoring in biochemistry. Under the guidance of Dave Pagliarini, associate professor of biochemistry, and graduate student Danielle Lohman, he studies Coenzyme Q (CoQ), a vital molecule discovered at UW-Madison over 50 years ago.

Specifically, Stefely is looking at a protein called COQ9 that is essential for production of CoQ and, when mutated, results in human disease. By uncovering the role of COQ9, he hopes to gain a better understanding of CoQ regulation and the role of CoQ in converting nutrients in the cell into energy.

Stefely says his research has provided him with scientific experience that will be invaluable for graduate school and his career beyond school. It has also helped him develop professional skills such as time management, project planning and scientific communication.