Professor Gerhard Wolber leads the Molecular Drug Design research group at the Institute of Pharmacy , Freie Universitaet Berlin. His work focuses on computational approaches to drug discovery, with expertise in G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) , cytochrome P450 enzymes , Toll-like receptors , and viral protease inhibitors . He supervises a team of 13 PhD candidates 3 researchers 2 Master's students engaged in projects ranging from calcium channel blockers to CYP enzyme modulators for cancer therapy. Recent publications highlight his lab's contributions to pan-coronavirus drug discovery, TLR8 antagonism, and calcium channel inhibition. The team employs advanced methodologies including Molecular dynamics simulations Fragment-based de novo design Bayesian neural networks DFT calculations 3D pharmacophore modeling to bridge computational predictions with experimental validation. Notable projects include Virtual screening for TREM2-targeted glioblastoma therapeutics Allosteric communication path analysis via MDPath Immune checkpoint inhibitors for cancer immunotherapy Biased GPCR ligand development demonstrating a multidisciplinary approach to contemporary drug design challenges.
Sangwon Lee is an Assistant Professor of Pharmacology at Yale University’s Yale School of Medicine. He holds primary appointments in Pharmacology and affiliations with the Biochemistry, Quantitative Biology, Biophysics and Structural Biology (BQBS) program, Janeway Society, and Molecular Medicine department. His academic journey includes a PhD in Chemistry and Biochemistry from the University of California, San Diego (2007), and earlier degrees from Konkuk University (MS 1998, BS 1996). Dr. Lee’s research focuses on structural biology and molecular mechanisms of FGF signaling pathways, particularly the role of β-Klotho and α-Klotho co-receptors in endocrine regulation. He designs novel protein-based inhibitors targeting oncogenic receptors and explores therapeutic applications of FGF pathway modulation. His work bridges computational protein engineering, cryo-EM structural analysis, and translational medicine. Key research trends include isoform-specific FGFR inhibition, structural oncology of KIT mutants, and bivalent interactions in FGF ligand systems. His lab collaborates extensively on projects involving designed oligomeric assemblies for vascular differentiation and drug delivery. Current efforts emphasize translating structural insights into therapeutic strategies for cancer and metabolic disorders. Dr. Lee’s academic contributions include leadership in the Yale Combined Program in the Biological and Biomedical Sciences (BBS), mentoring trainees, and serving on committees for academic promotion and interdisciplinary research. His laboratory is located at Sterling Hall of Medicine, Room 395F.
Dr. Ganesh Thakur is a Full Professor and Chair of the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences at Northeastern University. He holds a PhD in Organic Chemistry from the Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai, and has held roles from Senior Scientist to tenured Professor since 2004. His research focuses on cannabinoid receptor modulation, nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, and AI-driven drug discovery. Education: PhD, Organic Chemistry, Institute of Chemical Technology (ICT), Mumbai, India MS, Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Mumbai BS, Chemistry, University of Mumbai Research Interests: Dr. Thakur pioneers small molecule therapeutics targeting cannabinoid receptors (CB1/CB2), nicotinic receptors (α4β2, α7, α9), and GIRK channels. His work addresses epilepsy, glaucoma, neurodegeneration, neuropathic pain, and substance use disorders. He has developed novel allosteric modulators with preclinical efficacy in pain, addiction, and neuroprotection. Grants: Active grants include NIH/NIGMS (Targeting α7 nAChR), Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CB1 PAMs for infantile spasms), and NIH/NHLBI (GIRK channel regulation). Awards: Recipient of 2023 Distinguished Mentor Award, Hind Rattan Award, and multiple RISE Awards for student mentorship. Notable honors include the 2018 Best Patent Award (US Patent #9,926,275 B2) and NIDA Early Career Award (2009). Labs/Teams: Leads the Cannabinoid and Nicotinic Receptor Research Group at Northeastern's Center for Drug Discovery, focusing on translational drug development for CNS disorders.
Professor Jane Hanrahan is a leading academic in the School of Pharmacy at the University of Sydney, where she holds the rank of Professor in Pharmaceutical Sciences. She has served on the University of Sydney Academic Board since 2002 and chairs the Undergraduate Studies Committee, with prior roles in the Therapeutic Goods Administration Advisory Committee on Prescription Medicines (2013). Her career spans postdoctoral research at Cardiff (1996-97), lectureships in Pharmacology (1997-2002), and progressive promotions to Professor (2014). Education: BSc (Hons), University of Sydney PhD, University of Warwick (UK) Graduate Diploma in Educational Studies (Higher Education) Her research focuses on GABA receptors in anxiety, sleep disorders, schizophrenia, epilepsy, and learning/memory, with an emphasis on synthesizing conformationally restrained GABA analogues and exploring natural products from traditional herbal medicines. Key themes include neuropharmacology, medicinal chemistry, and mental health. Recent publications highlight trends in GABA receptor modulation (11/15 articles), traditional medicine analysis (4/15), and clinical pharmacy applications (4/15). Notable collaborations include work with Chebib, Johnston, and Collins on receptor-specific drug design. Grants and Committees: NHMRC Project Grants (2005-2014) on GABA receptors and neuroprotection Chair of Academic Board Undergraduate Studies Committee Member of Therapeutic Goods Administration Advisory Committee
Christopher Cioffi is the Thomas and Constance D'Ambra Professor in Organic Chemistry at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute's Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology. His research focuses on medicinal chemistry and organic synthesis, with projects spanning drug discovery for ophthalmic indications, neuropathic pain, COVID-19 therapeutics, and metabolic disorders. The Cioffi Laboratory employs cutting-edge techniques including microwave synthesis, automated chromatography, and LCMS analysis, complemented by structural biology and computational approaches for drug design. Dr. Cioffi completed his B.S. (1994) and Ph.D. (2000) in Chemistry at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. His current research portfolio includes NIH-funded collaborations developing GlyT2 inhibitors for neuropathic pain treatment and bispecific compounds targeting age-related macular degeneration and Stargardt disease. Additional projects investigate novel antiviral agents through the Center for Antiviral Medicines and Pandemic Preparedness. Recent publications demonstrate Cioffi's multidisciplinary approach, spanning structural biology of viral proteases, allosteric modulation of glycine transporters, and development of novel catalysts for green chemistry applications. His work shows consistent focus on translating mechanistic insights into therapeutic strategies, with frequent collaborations extending to Columbia University, University of Sydney, and Scripps Research Institute. While no specific awards are mentioned in the provided materials, Cioffi leads an active research group training students in organic synthesis and medicinal chemistry, with significant exposure to pharmacology and pharmacokinetics. The laboratory maintains specialized capabilities in microwave synthesis technology and analytical biochemistry, supported by institutional core facilities at RPI.
Dr. Siavash Vahidi is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology at the University of Guelph. His research focuses on understanding the structure, function, and dynamics of large biomolecular machines, particularly those involved in protein degradation in pathogens like Mycobacterium tuberculosis . He employs advanced techniques such as mass spectrometry (H/D exchange, native MS) and high-field NMR spectroscopy to study these systems. His lab is actively recruiting students and postdocs, emphasizing a commitment to diversity and training in cutting-edge methodologies. Education: BSc in Chemistry, National University of Iran, Tehran PhD in Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Western Ontario CIHR Postdoctoral Fellowship, University of Toronto & The Hospital for Sick Children Research: Key interests include the M. tuberculosis proteasome system, ClpP proteases in human mitochondria, and the role of allostery in substrate selection. The lab’s integrative approach combines structural biology with biochemical and computational methods, aiming to identify novel drug targets for tuberculosis and other diseases. Awards: Paul de Mayo Award for Best PhD Thesis Lab & Training: The Vahidi Lab emphasizes interdisciplinary training, offering expertise in mass spectrometry, NMR, and computational tools (e.g., Python, Linux). Supported by grants and collaborations, the lab fosters an inclusive environment with a strong focus on mentorship. Lab Resources: Website: Vahidi Lab Twitter: @VahidiLab
Shirley Graham is a Research Fellow at the University of St Andrews School of Biology, focusing on CRISPR-Cas bacterial immune systems. Her work examines molecular mechanisms of type III CRISPR effectors, antiviral signaling pathways, and nuclease regulation. Key research areas include: Cyclic nucleotide signaling in antiviral defense Structural enzymology of CRISPR-associated nucleases CRISPR system regulation and inactivation mechanisms Bacterial-phage coevolution Recent publications characterize novel CRISPR ancillary effectors, antiviral signaling via ATP-SAM conjugation, and structural foundations of type III CRISPR complexes. Work increasingly explores therapeutic applications for antibacterial strategies and phage resistance engineering. Methodological strengths include structural biology (cryo-EM), bioinformatic discovery of defense systems, and biochemical analysis of enzyme kinetics. Research contributes to the National Center for Smart Growth and integrates computational predictions with experimental validation of immune mechanisms.
Ted Hupp is Chair of Cancer Research and Professor of Cancer Research at the University of Edinburgh's Institute of Genetics and Cancer, where he leads the Edinburgh Cancer Research Centre. His laboratory focuses on developing next-generation technologies for drug discovery in cancer, with particular emphasis on cancers of unmet clinical need including oesophageal adenocarcinoma and sarcomas. Dr. Hupp's research interests center on understanding cancer progression pathways, particularly those involving p53 mutation, which is one of the most common genetic changes in cancer development. His lab employs biophysical, biochemical, and proteomic approaches to develop novel molecular insights into clinically relevant cancer progression pathways. His work spans three main research programs: drugging protein-protein interactions to activate the p53 tumour suppressor, investigating the secretory pathway as a driver in oesophageal cancer, and developing immunotherapeutics, monoclonal antibodies, and vaccinology platforms. Analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong focus on proteogenomics, protein science, and translational applications. His work increasingly integrates canine models for comparative medicine, proteomic approaches to understand protein synthesis dynamics, and novel antibody development for cancer therapeutics. The research shows a clear trajectory toward personalized cancer immunotherapies and vaccine development based on neoantigen landscapes. Professor Hupp has successfully secured funding from major organizations including BBSRC, Medical Research Scotland, The Technology Strategy Board, British Council, European Union Development Fund, Wellcome Trust, and Cancer Research UK. His current projects include optimization of synthetic antibody libraries, selection and characterization of anti-peptide synthetic antibodies, CRISPR-based genome-wide approaches for identifying vulnerabilities in canine oral melanoma, and the KATY project focused on clinical knowledge systems. He advises multiple PhD students including Kamila Pawlicka, Estefania Esposito, Vanessza Fentor, Sinem Gul, and Mishal Tariq. His research group collaborates extensively with scientists across the University of Edinburgh, Cambridge University, Masaryk Cancer Institute in Brno, and the Indian Institute for Science in Bangalore. The lab maintains expertise in protein science, post-translational modifications, phage antibody libraries, RNA editing, p53 pathway science, and proteogenomics.
Isaac T Schiefer is a Professor in the Department of Medicinal and Biological Chemistry at the University of Toledo College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences. He serves as Director of the Center for Drug Design and Development (CD3) and Associate Director of the Shimadzu Laboratory for Pharmaceutical Research Excellence. Research Focus : Neuropharmacology, drug design, nitric oxide mimetics, zebrafish models, and gut-brain axis interactions Key Techniques : Photoaffinity labeling, LC-MS metabolomics, neurobehavioral analysis His recent work examines: Allosteric modulation of M1 receptors in zebrafish neurotoxicity Impact of gut bacterial short chain fatty acids on cardiovascular function Hybrid NO mimetics for neurodegenerative diseases SPC toxicity mechanisms using zebrafish models Pharmacokinetics of brain-penetrant compounds Publications demonstrate expertise in: Drug metabolism via sulfotransferases Neuroprotective agent development Pharmaceutical microbiome interactions Calpain inhibition for Alzheimer's disease
Professor Mary Collins is a Professor of Pharmaceutical Neuroscience at the University of Sydney , affiliated with the Sydney School of Medical Sciences . She serves as Interim Associate Dean, Research and Head of School . Member of the Centre for Drug Discovery Innovation Member of the Brain and Mind Centre Research Interests GABA Receptors : Focus on subtype-selective modulators, binding site identification, and roles in anxiety, sleep disorders, and epilepsy. Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors : Structure-function studies using site-directed mutagenesis and reactive probes to understand ligand binding. Drug Discovery : SAR studies for selective agents targeting Cys-loop receptors, including flavonoids and cannabinoids. Scientific Contributions Her 15 most recent articles (2020-2024) span epilepsy genetics , receptor stoichiometry , neuroprotective flavonoids , and cannabinoid interactions . Key themes include precision medicine for receptor variants and neurotransmitter modulation in disorders. ASCEPT Young Investigator Award RACI Biota Award Fellow of RACI (2006) Supervision Award (University of Sydney, 2008) Advising Current students: Jacinda HOLTSMARK (epilepsy neurophysiology), Sze Hon KAN (genetic epilepsies), Fiona WANG (neurological mechanisms).
Susanta Sarkar is a Research Professor at Arizona State University's School of Molecular Sciences, affiliated with the Tempe campus. His email is Susanta.Sarkar@asu.edu. He holds a NIH R01 GM145210 grant as the sole PI ($1.1 million), focusing on MMP1's role in collagen degradation. His research integrates biophysics, enzyme dynamics, and drug development to target matrix metalloproteases (MMPs) in diseases like cancer and neurodegeneration. He employs single-molecule techniques to study enzyme-substrate interactions, aiming to develop precision therapies with minimal side effects. Education : Ph.D. in Physics, University of Oregon (2006) M.S. in Physical Sciences, Indian Institute of Science (2000) Postdoctoral Associate, Cornell University (2008), NIH Research Fellow (2013) Research Interests : MMPs' role in human health, single-molecule biophysics, allosteric modulation, and drug screening for Parkinson’s/Alzheimer’s. His work bridges fundamental biology and translational medicine, funded by NIH. Publications : Recent work includes substrate-specific MMP dynamics, alpha-synuclein interactions, and biofilm inhibition. His 2020 Biophysical Journal study was cover-selected and F1000-recommended. Over 15 publications since 2016 address enzyme activity, thermodynamics, and imaging. Grants & Awards : NIH R01 GM145210 (2022-2026), $2.25 million in total funding. Recognized for innovative methodologies in single-molecule studies. Advising & Training : Supervised 54 trainees, including 3 PhDs securing >$1.5M in grants post-graduation. Emphasizes financial literacy alongside science, with students averaging $30K+ retirement savings. Service : Served on 12 NSF/NIH panels, reviewer for 20+ journals including Nature Communications and Biophysical Journal. Labs/Teams : Integrates personal finance education in group meetings to boost focus and career readiness. Lab focuses on MMPs, antimicrobial biopolymers, and fluorescent nanodiamond imaging.
Peter Verwilst is an Associate Professor at the Medicinal Chemistry division of the Rega Institute for Medical Research , part of KU Leuven 's Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences. He leads projects in allosteric modulation of enzyme targets , fluorescent markers for neurodegenerative diseases , and novel antimicrobial development , particularly focusing on Gram-negative bacteria and HIV-related therapies. His research integrates computational modeling , chemical synthesis , and fluorescent probe design . He supervises PhD students including Margaux Billen , Eline Goffin , and Radu Bulai , and collaborates with institutions like Masaryk University and the Institut Pasteur de Lille. Current projects explore CCR5 signaling modulators , PurK inhibitors , and DNA-Encoded Libraries for P. aeruginosa antibiotics. Scientific awards include supporting students like Radu Bulai in obtaining FWO PhD Fellowships . His teaching includes Organische chemie I & II and Medicinale chemie courses. The lab recently celebrated securing a C1 grant and welcomes international collaborations.
Lynn Kamerlin is a Professor at the Georgia Institute of Technology and co-leads the Kamerlin Laboratory, which operates across Georgia Tech and Lund University. Her work integrates computational chemistry and biophysics to address fundamental questions in enzyme evolution, catalysis, and protein design. Education MNatSc in Chemistry, University of Birmingham (UK) PhD in Chemistry, University of Birmingham (UK) Her research spans computational biophysics , focusing on mechanistic biochemistry , protein evolution , and enzyme engineering . Key methodologies include machine learning , molecular dynamics simulations , EVB/QM/MM modeling , and natural language models for protein structure prediction. Recent publications highlight trends in AI-driven enzyme design , conformational dynamics , and mechanistic studies of phosphoryl transfer reactions . Tools like WatCon and Q-RepEx demonstrate her commitment to method development in computational biology. Scientific Awards Georgia Research Alliance Eminent Scholar (2022-Present) Wallenberg Scholar (2020-2024) ERC Starting Grant (2012-2017) Wallenberg Academy Fellowship (2014-2019, prolonged 2019-2024) Young Academy of Europe Chair (2014-2015) Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry (2017) Her lab collaborates with experimental groups worldwide, leveraging enhanced sampling techniques and structural bioinformatics to engineer enzymes with tailored properties. Grants from the Swedish Research Council and European Research Council underpin her research on enzyme evolution and catalytic mechanisms. Current projects include computational design of thermostable enzymes , allosteric modulators for biomedical targets, and modular protein scaffolds . The lab also investigates non-canonical amino acid incorporation and FAIR data principles in biomolecular simulations.
Michael Gajhede is a Professor of Protein Crystallography in the Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology at the University of Copenhagen's Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences. With over three decades of academic experience, his career spans from early appointments in the Department of Chemistry to his current position focusing on structural biology and drug design. Dr. Gajhede received his M.Sc. (Cand.scient.) in Chemistry from the University of Copenhagen in 1982 and completed his Ph.D. (Lic.scient.) there in 1986. His research expertise centers on protein crystallography, structural biology, and their applications in medicinal chemistry, particularly in understanding protein-protein interactions and developing novel therapeutic approaches. His recent publications (2023-2025) demonstrate a strong focus on structural approaches to drug discovery, with particular emphasis on protein-protein interaction targets including Keap1-Nrf2 pathway, cannabinoid receptors, and kainate receptors. His work bridges structural biology with practical medicinal chemistry applications, often resulting in novel compounds with therapeutic potential in inflammation, cancer, and neurological disorders. Throughout his career, Gajhede has held significant leadership positions including Chairman of DANSCATT (2008), Chairman of DANSYNC (2004-2007), and various roles in university governance and scientific infrastructure development in Denmark. As an active member of the scientific community, he serves as a referee for international journals in X-ray crystallography, evaluates academic appointments in Denmark, and reviews grant applications for multiple national science foundations across Europe and the United States.
Andres Jara-Oseguera is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Molecular Biosciences within the College of Natural Sciences at the University of Texas at Austin. His research focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms of ion channel proteins, particularly Transient Receptor Potential (TRP) channels, which are critical for electrical signaling in cells throughout the body. Position: Assistant Professor Department: Molecular Biosciences University: University of Texas at Austin Research Focus: Ion Channel Structure and Function Dr. Jara-Oseguera's research program investigates how molecular machines like ion channels control cellular signaling through their complex three-dimensional structures and dynamic behaviors. His work primarily centers on TRP channels, which play essential roles in biological processes ranging from temperature sensing to pain signaling and inflammatory responses. His laboratory employs a multidisciplinary approach combining structural biology, biophysics, electrophysiology, and molecular biology to elucidate how these channels detect diverse stimuli including temperature, chemical signals, and mechanical forces. The research has significant implications for understanding pain mechanisms and developing novel therapeutic approaches for pain management. An analysis of Dr. Jara-Oseguera's publication record reveals a consistent focus on TRP channel structure-function relationships, with recent work emphasizing temperature sensing mechanisms, channel gating dynamics, and pharmacological modulation. His research demonstrates an evolution from foundational studies on TRPV1 channels toward more sophisticated investigations of TRPM and TRPV2 channel mechanisms using advanced structural and biophysical approaches. The publications highlight his contributions to understanding how these molecular machines integrate multiple signals to control ion flow across membranes. Dr. Jara-Oseguera is actively recruiting students for the 2026-27 academic year, indicating his ongoing commitment to training the next generation of scientists in molecular biosciences. His laboratory provides opportunities for students to engage in cutting-edge research at the intersection of structural biology, biophysics, and neuroscience. The Jara-Oseguera Lab investigates the molecular basis of ion channel function, particularly focusing on how TRP channels serve as biological thermometers and pain sensors. Current projects examine how these channels integrate multiple stimuli, how they detect temperature changes with remarkable sensitivity, and how their subcellular localization influences function in neuronal contexts. The lab employs innovative approaches including high-throughput mutagenesis screens, fluorescence-based biosensors, and electrophysiological techniques to address fundamental questions in ion channel biology.
