Alexander Foo

Dr. Alexander Foo is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry at St. Francis Xavier University, leading the Biomolecular Allergen-lipid Research (BALR) Group established in 2022. He holds a BSc in Biochemistry (Queen’s University, 2007–2011) and a BSc in Education (Queen’s University, 2011–2012), followed by a PhD in Chemistry from the University of Ottawa (2012–2017). His postdoctoral research at the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (2017–2022) focused on allergen mechanisms and structural biology.

His research explores molecular allergy mechanisms, particularly how allergenic proteins damage biological barriers like lipid membranes, and their role in immune responses and inflammatory disorders. Techniques include solution-NMR, surface tensiometry, and fluorescence spectroscopy. Collaborative projects include cryoprotectant development and antimicrobial peptide studies. Key areas of interest are biochemistry, immunology, lipid membranes, and analytical chemistry.

Recent work emphasizes gold-conjugated allergens for immunotherapy, cross-reactive IgE analysis, and the antiviral potential of mosquito proteins. His lab actively recruits undergraduate and MSc students, with notable contributions from Victor Martinez-Macias (2025 publication).

Lab initiatives include advancing allergy diagnostics, lipid membrane stability studies, and biomolecular collaborations at StFX. Current opportunities include summer research roles and academic-year research positions. Dr. Foo’s lab is part of the expanding Chemistry Department, with recent faculty hiring announcements in biochemistry and analytical chemistry.