Joseph Chappell

Joseph Chappell, PhD, is a Professor in the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences at the University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy. He previously served as Chair of the Department from 2013 to 2022. Chappell earned his Bachelor’s degree in Biology from the University of California, San Diego, and his PhD in Biology from the University of California, Santa Cruz. He conducted postdoctoral research at the University of Freiburg and the Max Planck Institute-Cologne in Germany, followed by further research at the University of California, San Diego. He joined the University of Kentucky in 1985 as a faculty member in the College of Agriculture, advancing from Assistant Professor to Full Professor.

His research focuses on isoprenoid metabolism in plants and microbes, particularly exploring the biosynthesis of therapeutic compounds in medicinal plants. The Chappell laboratory investigates genes and enzymes involved in terpene pathways, aiming to develop plant-based therapeutics. Collaborations with the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences have enhanced these efforts. Chappell has also commercialized intellectual property, leading to Kentucky-based startups and sustainable bioproducts.

Chappell has contributed to educational initiatives, including the development of the UK Bachelor’s program in Agricultural Biotechnology. He has mentored numerous students, postdoctoral researchers, and scholars, supporting their professional growth. His lab emphasizes student training, hosting undergraduate researchers and guiding graduate thesis projects.

Research themes include manipulating genes to enhance terpene production, enzymatic mechanisms of biosynthesis, and applications in drug discovery. The lab’s work spans plant-microbe interactions, metabolic engineering, and biotechnological innovations.