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Kjetil TaskenView profile

Professor

• Cancer Immunology
• Immune Regulation
• Cancer Precision Medicine
• +5 more

Kjetil Tasken is a Professor of Medicine at the University of Oslo and serves as Head and Director of the Institute for Cancer Research (ICR) at Oslo University Hospital (OUH) since 2018. He also leads the OUH Centre for Precision Medicine in Cancer (CEPREC) since 2021. His research focuses on immune regulation, cancer immunology, precision oncology, and drug development. Tasken holds leadership roles in numerous national and international initiatives, including the K.G. Jebsen Centres for B Cell Malignancies and Cancer Immunotherapy. His academic career includes positions as Director of the Centre for Molecular Medicine Norway (NCMM) and the Biotechnology Centre, UiO. He has received prestigious awards such as the King Olav V’s Prize for Cancer Research (2016) and the Digitalis Purpurea Award (2018). Tasken’s work bridges basic science and clinical applications, emphasizing translational medicine and innovation. Leadership: Institute Head, ICR Director, CEPREC Director Research: Immune regulation, regulatory T cells, precision medicine Awards: King Olav V Prize, Faculty Medal, Honorary Membership in Norwegian Immunology Society Tasken chairs multiple scientific committees, including the Norwegian Cancer Society’s Scientific Council and the EU’s Innovative Medicines Initiative (IMI) Scientific Committee. He has published over 295 peer-reviewed articles, with an h-index of 63, and has given >300 international lectures.

• Medicinal Chemistry
• Organic Synthesis
• Cancer Therapeutics
• +5 more

Dr. Daniel Alencar Rodrigues is a Lecturer at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) in the School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences. He holds a PhD in Chemistry from the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro and has held academic positions including Assistant Professor (2017–2018) and Postdoctoral Researcher (2020–2023). His research focuses on medicinal chemistry, organic synthesis, and cancer therapeutics, particularly targeting histone deacetylases (HDACs), phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K), and the development of Proteolysis Targeting Chimeras (PROTACs). Education: PhD in Chemistry, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (2015–2019) MSc in Chemistry, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (2013–2015) Bachelor in Pharmacy, Federal University of Goiás (2008–2012) Postgraduate Diploma in Health Professions Education, RCSI (2023–2024) His research interests include: Design and synthesis of multi-target drugs and PROTACs for cancer therapy HDAC6 inhibition in breast and brain cancers Computational chemistry for drug design (molecular docking, virtual screening) Development of novel anticancer agents targeting metabolic vulnerabilities Dr. Rodrigues has received the Government of Ireland Postdoctoral Fellowship and has a robust publication record with over 20 peer-reviewed articles. His lab employs a multidisciplinary approach combining organic synthesis, computational modeling, and biological evaluation. Teaching responsibilities include lecturing in the Master of Pharmacy (MPharm) and BSc in Advanced Therapeutic Technologies programs, with a focus on musculoskeletal and haematological health modules. He emphasizes constructive alignment in teaching practices.

Dario GhersiView profile

Associate Professor

• Cancer Genomics
• Structural Bioinformatics
• Immunoinformatics
• +2 more

Dario Ghersi is Associate Professor and Graduate Program Chair for Biomedical Informatics, Cybersecurity, and IT Innovation at UNO's College of Information Science & Technology. He holds an MD from the University of Genoa and a PhD in Structural Bioinformatics from Mount Sinai School of Medicine. Research focuses on cancer genomics, structural bioinformatics, immunoinformatics, and biologically-inspired computing. His lab develops computational methods for understanding protein interactions, T-cell immunity, and therapeutic design. Recent publications demonstrate advancements in viral inhibition strategies, equitable algorithm design, and cancer biomarker discovery. Awards include a 2011 American-Italian Cancer Foundation fellowship. Service includes co-directing the BISB track in the IGPBS PhD program and multiple committee roles.

• Breast Cancer
• Endocrine Therapy Resistance
• Cancer Metastasis
• +4 more

Professor Leonie Young holds a Professorship in the Department of Surgery at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI), based at York House in Dublin. Her academic career includes roles as Associate Professor (2011–2018) and Professor (2018–present). Her research focuses on uncovering mechanisms of endocrine therapy resistance in breast cancer, particularly involving Steroid Receptor Coactivator (SRC) proteins and metastasis to the brain. She leads the Endocrine Oncology Research Group, leveraging primary patient-derived cell cultures and clinical datasets to identify predictive markers and therapeutic targets. Research Interests: Prof. Young’s work spans breast cancer biology, endocrine resistance, translational oncology, and targeted therapies for metastatic disease. Her group employs high-throughput methods, molecular modeling, and spatial genomics to study SRC-mediated resistance pathways. Current projects include the GeTTMet initiative addressing brain metastasis through genomic adaptations. Grants & Collaborations: She has secured funding from institutions like Science Foundation Ireland, Breast Cancer Ireland, and the EU. Notable grants include the GeTTMet program (2024–2028) targeting brain metastasis via genomic approaches. Her lab collaborates on projects like the OECI Comprehensive Cancer Centre and AICRIstart precision medicine initiatives. Labs & Teams: Leads the Endocrine Oncology Research Group at RCSI, focusing on translational research to bridge molecular insights with clinical applications. The group investigates nuclear receptor interactions, tumor heterogeneity, and novel therapeutic strategies.

Valerie KouskoffView profile

Associate Professor

• Hematopoietic Stem Cell Biology
• Embryonic Development
• Blood Cell Differentiation
• +3 more

Valerie Kouskoff is a Reader in the Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine at the University of Manchester, UK (2016–present). Previously, she held roles including Group Leader at the CRUK Manchester Institute (2003–2016) and Assistant Professor at Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York (2002–2003). She earned her PhD from Louis Pasteur University, Strasbourg, France (1988–1994). Her research focuses on understanding hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) development during embryogenesis, particularly the endothelial-to-hematopoietic transition and genetic/epigenetic mechanisms regulating blood cell specification. Key areas include the role of transcription factors (RUNX1, SOX7, GFI1), hemogenic endothelium differentiation, and therapeutic applications of stem cell engineering. Her work contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals related to health and regenerative medicine. Recent articles highlight advancements in AML treatment via KAT6A inhibitors, CD82’s role in blood specification, and SOX7-dependent lymphatic patterning. Collaborations span institutions like the Manchester Regenerative Medicine Network and Christabel Pankhurst Institute. She has supervised 8 research projects and published over 100 peer-reviewed articles. Her studies explore genomic instability in cancer, reprogramming fibroblasts to hematopoietic cells, and the interplay between vascular and blood development.

Arnaud AugertView profile

Assistant Professor

• Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC)
• Transcriptional and Epigenetic Mechanisms
• Cancer Biology
• +4 more

Dr. Arnaud Augert is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Pathology at Yale School of Medicine, with a primary affiliation in the Genomics program. He leads the Augert Lab, focusing on dissecting transcriptional and epigenetic mechanisms in cancer, particularly small cell lung cancer (SCLC). His research integrates cell biology, genetics, and molecular biology to identify novel therapeutic strategies. Education: Dr. Augert holds a PhD in Molecular & Cellular Biology from the Pasteur Institute/Université de Sciences et Techniques de Lille (USTL), an MPhil in Cellular Biology & Physiology from USTL, and a BS in Cellular Biology from the University of Valencia. Research Interests: Dr. Augert’s work centers on understanding tumor suppressor networks, SCLC pathogenesis, and therapeutic targets such as MAX, NOTCH, and epigenetic regulators. His lab explores mechanisms of transcriptional addiction, metabolic rewiring, and cellular senescence in cancer progression. Publications: His research has been featured in top journals like Cancer Cell , Cancer Discovery , and Science Signaling , highlighting breakthroughs in SCLC biology and therapeutic approaches. Recent work includes studies on MAX inactivation, NOTCH inhibition, and epigenetic drivers of cancer. Scientific Awards: ATIP-AVENIR program UALC/LCRF grant Yale Cancer Center K12 Calabresi Immuno-Oncology Training Program Advising & Mentorship: Dr. Augert has mentored numerous trainees, including undergraduates, graduate students, and postdoctoral fellows. Current lab members include Yale BBS graduate students (Danny Gallant, Mileena Nguyen) and postdoctoral researchers (Bomiao Hu, Aoqun Song). Lab Activities: The Augert Lab is part of Yale Cancer Center and collaborates with interdisciplinary teams in Computational Biology, Molecular Medicine, and Pharmacology. They aim to bridge basic science discoveries with translational oncology.

Eric Y. ChengView profile

Professor

• Drug Discovery
• Natural Products
• Anti-Cancer Agents
• +4 more

Eric Y. Cheng is a Professor in the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences at the UNT System College of Pharmacy, University of North Texas Health Science Center. His research focuses on discovering bioactive natural products from microorganisms for cancer, infectious disease, and anti-aging therapies. He leads projects on histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi) like Thailandepsin A and FK228, and collaborates on oncolytic virus engineering for chemoimmunotherapy. Education: BS in Microbiology (Huazhong Agricultural University), MS in Phytochemistry (Chinese Academy of Sciences Institute of Botany), PhD in Botany & Microbiology (Michigan State University). Research emphasizes drug discovery via microbial natural products and synthetic biology approaches. Key areas include metabolic engineering of Burkholderia thailandensis for thailanstatin production, development of HDAC inhibitors, and exploring anti-glaucoma agents. Over 66 publications and 7 sponsored projects since 1998, with notable work on leinamycin biosynthesis and fermentation optimization. Grants include NCI-funded projects on histone deacetylase inhibitors and UTSW grants for prostate cancer research. Collaborative projects span institutions globally, focusing on drug development pipelines and translational applications.

Shana StoddardView profile

Associate Professor

• Autoimmune disorders
• Protein engineering
• Computational chemistry
• +6 more

Dr. Shana Stoddard is an Associate Professor of Chemistry at Rhodes College, where she leads the Molecular Immunotherapeutics Research (MIR) lab. Her research program focuses on improving patient outcomes with autoimmune disorders, cancer, neurological disorders, and coronaviruses through protein engineering, computational chemistry, and rational drug design. Dr. Stoddard received her educational training from: Postdoctoral Researcher at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (Diagnostic Imaging) Ph.D. in Chemistry and Biochemistry from University of Mississippi M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction (emphasis Special Education) from Freed-Hardeman University B.S. in Chemistry from Prairie View A&M University Dr. Stoddard's research interests span multiple areas of biomedical science with a focus on therapeutic development. Her work in autoimmune disorders centers on primary membranous nephritis (PMN), where she develops auto-antibody-specific inhibitors and antigen-specific therapies. In cancer research , she focuses on designing selective histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors for various cancer types, particularly targeting HDAC8 for neuroblastoma treatment. Her lab also works on neurological disorders , developing HDAC4 inhibitors for Huntington's disease and glioblastoma. During the COVID-19 pandemic, her lab pivoted to coronavirus antiviral development , creating peptide-based fusion inhibitors and protease inhibitors. Additionally, Dr. Stoddard is deeply committed to diversity and equity in STEM education , developing pedagogical approaches to create more inclusive classrooms. Analysis of Dr. Stoddard's recent publications reveals a consistent focus on structure-based drug design across multiple therapeutic areas. Her work employs computational chemistry approaches to model protein structures and design inhibitors with improved selectivity. A significant portion of her research targets histone deacetylases (HDACs), with emphasis on achieving isozyme selectivity among the 18 different HDAC enzymes. Her lab has made contributions to understanding protein structures involved in autoimmune kidney diseases and developed computational models of previously uncharacterized proteins. Dr. Stoddard has received numerous prestigious awards recognizing both her research and mentorship: 2025 – LMI Mellon Fellow 2024 – Lloyd N Ferguson Young Scientist Award from NOBCChE 2024 – Sigma Xi, The Scientific Research Honor Society inductee 2024 – Ruth Kirschstein Diversity in Science Award from ASBMB 2023 – Tyrone Mitchell Mentor-on-the-Map Award from NOBCChE 2023 – Silvia Ronco Innovative Mentor Award from CUR Chemistry 2022 – Henry C. McBay Outstanding Teaching Award from NOBCChE 2021 – Outstanding Mentor of the year Award CUR Health Sciences (Early Career Stage) 2021 – Accessibility and Inclusivity Advocate of the Year: Campus Life Award (Rhodes College) Dr. Stoddard is renowned for her exceptional mentorship of undergraduate researchers, particularly from underrepresented groups in STEM. She established the STEM Cohort Mentoring program at Rhodes in 2017 to support diverse students pursuing STEM careers. Her lab has produced numerous undergraduate co-authors on peer-reviewed publications across multiple disciplines. She has successfully guided many students into medical schools and graduate programs. Dr. Stoddard has secured competitive funding for her research, including participation in the Project Kaleidoscope STEM Leadership Institute held by the American Association of Colleges & Universities. The Molecular Immunotherapeutics Research (MIR) lab at Rhodes College is a vibrant research environment where undergraduate students work alongside Dr. Stoddard on cutting-edge biomedical research. The lab currently pursues four major research projects: 1) Protein Engineering and Development of Antigen Specific Therapeutics for Autoimmune Disorders; 2) Modeling and Investigation of Structure and Function Relationships of Unsolved Protein Structures; 3) Design, Synthesis, and Biological Testing of Novel Therapeutic Compounds for Cancer, Autoimmune, and Neurological Disorders; and 4) Development of Broad-Spectrum Coronavirus Antivirals. The MIR lab collaborates with researchers at institutions including Boston University Medical College, University of Mississippi, and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Lisa M. CoussensView profile

Professor

• Tumor Immunology
• Cancer Microenvironment
• Inflammation in Cancer
• +3 more

Lisa M. Coussens, PhD, is Chairwoman of the Department of Cell, Developmental & Cancer Biology and Interim Director of the Knight Cancer Institute at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), where she holds the Hildegard Lamfrom Endowed Chair in Basic Science. Her research program investigates immune cell functions in solid tumor development, with emphasis on how leukocytes influence cancer progression and therapeutic responses. Using preclinical models of mesothelioma, breast, pancreatic, and head/neck cancers, her lab identifies immunotherapy targets that have advanced to clinical trials for metastatic cancers. Education B.A., San Francisco State University, 1980 Ph.D., University of California, 1993 Postdoctoral Fellowship, University of California San Francisco (Douglas Hanahan Lab) Research Focus Dr. Coussens leads a translational research program examining how immune cells regulate tumor development and therapy responses. Her work integrates molecular oncology, immunology, and preclinical modeling to identify: 1) Immune pathways co-opted by developing tumors, 2) Mechanisms of leukocyte-mediated therapy resistance, and 3) Biomarkers for immunotherapy response. Current work emphasizes spatial analysis of tumor-immune interactions using multiplexed imaging and computational approaches. Her recent publications reflect strong emphasis on tumor microenvironment dynamics, immunotherapy mechanisms, and translational applications in pancreatic, breast, and head/neck cancers. Studies frequently incorporate spatial biology techniques, clinical correlation analyses, and novel therapeutic combinations targeting immune pathways. Honors & Awards National Academy of Sciences Member (2023) National Academy of Medicine Member (2024) AACR President (2022-2023) Susan G. Komen Brinker Award (2018) Fellow of AACR Academy (2019) Fellow of AAAS (2018) Rosalind E. Franklin Award, NCI (2015) Honorary Doctorate, University of Buenos Aires (2018) Princess Takamatsu Memorial Lectureship (2018) European Academy of Tumor Immunology Career Award (2018) Gertrude B. Elion Award (2001) Charlotte Friend Lectureship (2012) Margaret L. Kripke Legend Award (2023) Johns Hopkins Heroine of Public Health (2024) Fellow of Academy of ImmunoOncology (2022) Dr. Coussens directs translational research programs at OHSU's Knight Cancer Institute and leads multidisciplinary collaborations investigating tumor-immune crosstalk. Her laboratory develops innovative preclinical platforms for evaluating combination immunotherapies.

• Protease Inhibition
• PROTACs
• Activity-Based Probes
• +6 more

Prof. Michael Gütschow is a Professor at the Pharmaceutical Institute of the University of Bonn. His research focuses on designing tailored inhibitors for proteases involved in cancer, viral infections (e.g., SARS-CoV-2), and developing proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) for targeted protein degradation. He leads projects in drug discovery, including antiviral agents and epigenetic therapies. His work spans protease inhibition mechanisms, activity-based probes for enzyme analysis, and novel drug modalities like PROTACs for cyclin-dependent kinases and cereblon. Notable collaborations include studies on CDK6 degraders for multiple myeloma and SARS-CoV-2 main protease inhibitors. Recent publications highlight advancements in histone deacetylase degraders, NLRP3 inflammasome modulation, and USP7-targeting PROTACs. His research bridges biochemistry, medicinal chemistry, and translational medicine, contributing to innovative therapeutic strategies.

Stefan HüttelmaierView profile

Professor

• Molecular Biology
• Cancer Biology
• RNA Biology
• +3 more

Stefan Hüttelmaier is a Full Professor of Molecular Cell Biology at Martin-Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Germany. He leads the Core Facility Imaging at the Charles Tanford Protein Center and directs research into RNA-binding proteins' roles in cancer. His career includes postdoctoral work at Albert Einstein College of Medicine and leadership roles in the RTG 1591 research group. His work focuses on RAVER1 protein dynamics, perinucleolar compartments, and RNA metabolism in cancer progression. Education: PhD in Biotechnology (2000, University of Braunschweig), postdoctoral training at Albert Einstein College of Medicine (2001–2004). Academic milestones include Associate Professor (2009) and Full Professor (2014) positions. Research spans RNA-protein interactions, cancer biology, and translational mechanisms in tumors. Key research interests include RNA-binding proteins' roles in cancer (RAVER1, IGF2BP1), alternative splicing, and miRNA regulation. His lab investigates how these molecules influence cancer cell behavior, metastasis, and therapeutic resistance. Recent work highlights druggable targets like IGF2BP1 and mechanisms linking RNA modifications to oncogenesis. Leadership roles include RTG 1591 speaker and Core Facility director. Publications emphasize RNA biology in cancer, with contributions to understanding post-transcriptional control and therapeutic strategies targeting RNA pathways. His interdisciplinary approach combines molecular biology, biochemistry, and computational modeling to address clinical challenges in oncology.

• Adoptive Cell Therapy
• CAR T-cells
• Cancer Immunology
• +9 more

Dr. Kavitha Gowrishankar is a Senior Lecturer in Immunology at the University of Sydney's School of Medical Sciences, under the Faculty of Medicine and Health. She is affiliated with the Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Kids Research (The Children's Hospital Westmead), and Sydney Cancer Partners. Her research focuses on adoptive cell therapy, CAR T-cells for cancers like leukemia, lymphoma, multiple myeloma, and pediatric solid tumors (sarcoma, brain cancer), as well as T cell receptor engineering and HIV viral reservoir eradication. She has pioneered the use of piggyBac transposase for T-cell genetic modification and investigated combination therapies targeting melanoma and other malignancies. Academic Background: PhD in Immunology (University of Sydney, 2005–2008) Research Training (Indian Institute of Science, India, 1992–1995) Master of Science in Bio-Medical Genetics (University of Madras, India, 1990–1992) Bachelor of Science in Botany (University of Madras, India, 1987–1990) Schooling in India (1975–1987) Research Interests: Her work bridges basic immunology and translational applications. She explores CAR T-cell engineering for pediatric and adult cancers, particularly targeting the tumor microenvironment and latent HIV reservoirs in CD4 T cells. Key innovations include optimizing transposon tools for CAR insertion and developing strategies to enhance CAR T-cell efficacy against solid tumors. She also investigates epigenetic regulators (e.g., BET/HDAC inhibitors) to combat melanoma resistance mechanisms. Articles Trends: Recent publications emphasize CAR T-cell safety (e.g., lymphoma risks), novel CAR designs (e.g., piggyBat transposase), and combination therapies targeting HIV reservoirs. Her work spans preclinical studies to clinical trials, with a focus on melanoma, myeloma, and pediatric sarcomas. She frequently collaborates on projects involving T-cell receptors and interferon modulation strategies. Awards: APA Scholarship (2005–2008) CSIR Research Fellowship (India, 1992–1995) Gold Medallist in M.Sc. (Bio-Medical Genetics, 1992) Gold Medallist in B.Sc. (Botany, 1990) Advising & Grants: Supervises PhD students in CAR T-cell applications for HIV and pediatric sarcomas. Leads grants including the E2CAR Trial (Phase I clinical trial for EphA2-targeted CAR T-cells in sarcoma), and collaborations targeting dual-specific CAR T-cells for HIV eradication. Her grants reflect a mix of preclinical and clinical translational research. Labs & Teams: Active in the Westmead Institute for Medical Research and Kids Research. Collaborates with the Sydney Cancer Partners consortium, focusing on novel cellular therapies and cross-disciplinary oncology solutions.

Mary Kay PflumView profile

Professor

• Protein Post-Translational Modification
• Histone Deacetylase Proteins
• Chemical Genetics
• +4 more

Mary Kay Pflum is a Professor in the Department of Chemistry at Wayne State University's College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. Holding the A. Paul and Carol C. Schaap Endowed Chair in Chemistry, she leads a research program at the Chemistry-Biology interface focusing on kinase and histone deacetylase (HDAC) enzymes in cancer biology. Education: B.A., Carleton College (1992) Ph.D., Yale University (1999) NIH Postdoctoral Fellow, Harvard University (1999-2001) Her research integrates organic synthesis, biochemistry, and cell biology to develop chemical tools for studying protein post-translational modifications. Key projects include: ATP analog-based kinase substrate labeling HDAC substrate trapping mutants Selective HDAC inhibitor development Recent publications highlight her work in HDAC6 substrate discovery (e.g., PRMT5 deacetylation), EGFR-HDAC1 signaling, and innovations in kinase substrate identification methods like K-BIPS and K-CLIP. Awards include the Charles H. Gershenson Distinguished Faculty Fellowship (2019) and multiple NIH grants (R01GM079529, R35GM131821). Scientific Awards & Grants: American Chemical Society Pre-doctoral Fellowship (1996) NIH Postdoctoral Fellowship (1999) Research Corporation Innovation Award (2002) NIH R01 Grants (2001-present) Charles H. Gershenson Distinguished Faculty Fellowship (2019)

Lei XieView profile

Professor

• Bioinformatics
• Systems Biology
• Molecular Modeling and Simulation
• +6 more

Lei Xie is a Professor in the Department of Computer Science at Hunter College, CUNY, and an Adjunct Professor in Neuroscience at Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University. He holds a PhD in Chemistry from Rutgers University (2000) and an MS in Computer Science from Rutgers (2000), alongside a BS in Polymer Physics from the University of Science and Technology of China (1995). His research focuses on integrating artificial intelligence and machine learning with biomedicine to address challenges in drug discovery, systems biology, and personalized medicine. Research Highlights: Developing novel machine learning algorithms for signed networks, high-dimensional data, and generative AI for drug design. Structural systems pharmacology frameworks for drug action modeling, targeting Alzheimer’s, cancers, and bacterial infections. Multi-scale modeling combining molecular dynamics and machine learning for drug-target interactions. Grants: NIH (R01GM122845, R01AG057555, R21AG083302) and NSF (NSF2230354) funded projects on methodology development and translational sciences. Labs & Collaborations: Leads the Brain & Mind Research Institute lab at Weill Cornell, collaborating with researchers at UVA, Rutgers, and other institutions on projects like Alzheimer’s drug repurposing and anti-cancer therapies.

A. GanesanView profile

Professor

• Chemical Biology
• Medicinal Chemistry
• Organic Synthesis
• +3 more

Professor A. Ganesan is Chair of Chemical Biology at the University of East Anglia's School of Chemistry, Pharmacy and Pharmacology, where he serves as Director of Postgraduate Research and Head of the Healthy Ageing research theme. He co-founded Karus Therapeutics and chairs the EU COST Action 'Epigenetic Chemical Biology', while holding key roles in IUPAC and the Royal Society of Chemistry. Education BSc (Hons) in Chemistry, National University of Singapore (1986) PhD in Synthetic Methodology and Total Synthesis, University of California-Berkeley (1992) Postdoctoral Fellowship, Harvard University (1992-1993) His research focuses on chemical biology and medicinal chemistry, specializing in biologically active natural products and epigenetic mechanisms. Current work emphasizes drug discovery for cancer and age-related diseases, particularly through HDAC and LSD1 inhibition, with strong translation potential via industry partnerships like Karus Therapeutics. His group combines synthetic organic chemistry with computational approaches to develop novel therapeutics targeting epigenetic pathways. Recent publications (2023-2025) show a shift toward computational drug design for epigenetic targets, especially HDAC6 inhibitors for cancer therapy, while earlier work centered on natural product synthesis and calcium signaling mechanisms. This evolution reflects growing integration of AI-driven docking studies with traditional synthetic approaches. Research Leadership Director of Postgraduate Research at UEA School of Pharmacy Head of Healthy Ageing Research Theme Chair of EU COST Action CM1406 'Epigenetic Chemical Biology' Member of IUPAC Subcommittee for Medicinal Chemistry He actively supervises PhD students with current projects on marine-derived antibiotics, plant bioactives from Malaysian/Middle Eastern botanicals, and fungal metabolites. Major grants include Cancer Research UK (£91k, 2007-2011) for histone methylation inhibitors and BBSRC funding (£351k, 2009-2012) for NAADP receptor antagonists, plus ongoing Saudi/Kuwaiti-funded initiatives in natural product discovery.