Aaron Monte

Aaron Monte is a Professor of Chemistry & Biochemistry at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse (UW-L), affiliated with the College of Science and Health. He holds a PhD in Medicinal Chemistry (Purdue University, 1995) and a B.S. in Chemistry & Biochemistry (University of West Florida, 1990). His career includes roles as Department Chair (2004–2019), Director of the UWL Emerging Technology Center in Pharmaceutical Development (2011–present), and co-founder of Mycophyte Discovery, LLC.

Monte’s research focuses on medicinal-organic chemistry, psychopharmacology, and natural product-derived drugs, particularly anti-infectives and anticancer agents. He pioneered synthetic drug molecules targeting serotonin receptors and contributed to isolating bioactive compounds from fungi and herbal remedies. His work has yielded multiple patents, including cancer-inhibiting compounds and skin-lightening agents.

Monte’s teaching spans undergraduate and graduate courses in chemistry, biochemistry, and physiology. He has received awards for both teaching and research and was instrumental in founding UW-L’s Physician Assistant program. He co-founded the UWL Undergraduate Research program and served as its inaugural editor for the UWL Journal of Undergraduate Research (1998–2011).

His research collaborations include multi-institutional initiatives and industry partnerships, emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches in pharmaceutical development. Key labs/teams include the Wisconsin Emerging Technology Center and Mycophyte Discovery, LLC, focusing on drug discovery and biotechnology innovation.