Robert Levenson

Robert Levenson, PhD

Robert Levenson is an Assistant Professor of Biochemistry at Soka University of America, specializing in protein assembly mechanisms, biophotonics, and biomolecular condensates. His research focuses on understanding how proteins form complex structures and malfunction in diseases, with applications in engineered biocatalysts and materials. He actively involves undergraduates in research, co-authoring peer-reviewed papers with them.

Research Interests

• Protein structure and assembly in molecular machines
• Tunable liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS)
• Protein aggregation and proteopathies
• Protein-based biocatalyst design

Awards & Recognition

• National Science Foundation Award #2233670 ($293,310, Principal Investigator)
• Multiple travel awards (ASBMB, ACS Division of Biological Chemistry)

Teaching

Teaches courses including General Chemistry II, Integrated Biology & Chemistry, and specialized learning clusters on topics like SARS-CoV-2 and drug design. Emphasizes fostering intellectual independence and curiosity in students.

Professional Experience

• 2020–present: Assistant Professor at Soka University of America
• 2016–2020: Assistant Project Scientist at UC Santa Barbara’s Institute of Collaborative Biotechnologies