Charles M. Deber

Dr. Charles M. Deber is a Professor in the Department of Biochemistry at the University of Toronto, with a cross-appointment at the Research Institute of the Hospital for Sick Children since 1976. His work bridges biochemistry, molecular medicine, and biophysics.

Research Focus: Dr. Deber investigates membrane protein structure and function, particularly how mutations in transmembrane segments lead to diseases like cystic fibrosis. His lab designs therapeutic peptides targeting bacterial resistance and membrane interactions.

Awards & Honors:

• 2000 Vincent du Vigneaud Award (American Peptide Society)
• 2001 Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada (FRSC)
• 2009 Murray Goodman Award for Scientific Excellence
• 1996 W.T. Aikins Award for Teaching (University of Toronto)

Academic Contributions: He has pioneered spectroscopic and computational methods to study membrane protein folding, developed novel antimicrobial peptides with patented charge-segregation designs, and mentored students through courses like BCH2024H and BCH473Y.