About
John P. Toscano is a Professor of Chemistry at Johns Hopkins University's Krieger School of Arts and Sciences, where he also serves as Chair of the Center for Biotechnology Education. He previously held leadership roles including Vice Dean for Natural Sciences (2014-2020), Interim Dean of the Krieger School (2020-2021), and multiple terms as Chair of the Department of Chemistry (2005-2011, 2013-2014, 2021-2024).
His research focuses on the chemistry and biology of small-molecule signaling agents, with emphasis on:
- Nitric oxide (NO), nitroxyl (HNO), and hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) biochemistry
- Design of novel hydropersulfide donors and nitroxyl precursors
- Mechanisms of cardioprotection against ischemia-reperfusion injury
- Redox signaling pathways and oxidative stress responses
- Therapeutic applications in cardiovascular disease and cancer
Educational background includes:
- B.S. in Chemistry, Princeton University (magna cum laude)
- Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry, Yale University
- NIH Postdoctoral Fellowship, Ohio State University
Major scientific awards:
- AT&T Bell Laboratories Ph.D. Scholar
- Richard Wolfgang Memorial Prize
- Camille and Henry Dreyfus New Faculty Award
- NSF CAREER Award
- Camille Dreyfus Teacher-Scholar Award
- Alfred P. Sloan Fellowship
He leads the Toscano Research Group, advising graduate students and postdocs in chemical biology projects. Research funding has included support from NIH, NSF, and private foundations. Current investigations explore redox modulation in cellular homeostasis and development of sulfur-based therapeutic agents.
