James West

James West is a Professor of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at The College of Wooster, holding joint appointments in the Biology and Chemistry Departments. He earned his B.S. from Campbell University (1999), Ph.D. from Vanderbilt University (2005), and completed a postdoctoral fellowship at Northwestern University (2005-2008). His research focuses on redox biology, proteostasis, and cellular stress responses, particularly investigating protein disulfide isomerases, peroxiredoxins, and ubiquitin-like modifiers. Recent work explores redox regulation of protein folding, enzymatic cross-linking mechanisms, and the cellular consequences of oxidative stress. His lab employs biochemical, genetic, and proteomic approaches to study these processes in yeast and mammalian systems.

Dr. West teaches courses in biochemistry, molecular biology, and general chemistry. He advises undergraduate research projects emphasizing hands-on laboratory training and independent inquiry. His publications highlight advancements in understanding redox signaling pathways, protein quality control mechanisms, and the development of chemical probes for studying cellular stress responses.

His research group, 'The West Group,' focuses on applying chemical biology tools to dissect redox-dependent processes. Current projects include studying the role of Urm1 in protein modification, characterizing disulfide relay systems in the secretory pathway, and investigating the toxicity of bifunctional electrophiles. While no specific awards are listed, his work contributes to foundational knowledge in biochemistry with implications for neurodegenerative diseases and drug development.