Andrew Woolley

Andrew Woolley is a Professor in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Toronto, located in the Downtown Toronto (St. George) campus. His research focuses on developing light-controllable molecules and proteins, including optogenetic tools and photopharmacology. The Woolley Lab explores strategies to photo-control peptide and protein structure and activity, with applications in neurobiology and cellular systems.

Research interests include engineering photoswitchable proteins, designing bioactive small molecules responsive to light, and advancing optogenetic technologies. Projects involve structural biology, protein engineering, and synthetic chemistry to understand protein dynamics and create tools for biological analysis.

Recent publications highlight innovations in red light-switchable systems, cyanobacteriochrome-based dimers, and azobenzene crosslinkers. The lab collaborates with Toronto’s biomolecular research hub and supports inclusivity through groups like WICTO and the Family Care Office. The Woolley Lab hosted the 2024 Protein Engineering Canada Conference, underscoring their leadership in the field.