Andrew Beekman

Andrew Beekman is an Associate Professor in Medicinal Chemistry at the University of East Anglia. He leads a research group focusing on targeting protein-protein interactions (PPIs) in cancer and age-related diseases. His work integrates peptide design, small molecule development, and drug delivery strategies to inhibit key PPIs such as PD-1/PD-L1, telomerase, and Nrf2/MafG. Beekman holds a PhD from the Australian National University and an Endeavour Research Fellowship from the University of British Columbia.

• Affiliations: School of Chemistry, Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University of East Anglia
• Education:
  • Bachelor of Science (2009), Australian National University
  • Doctor of Philosophy (2014), Australian National University

Research Interests: Beekman’s lab develops novel chemical probes and therapeutic leads for PPIs involved in cancer and genetic disorders. Current projects include:

• Inhibiting immune checkpoint proteins (e.g., PD-1/PD-L1) for cancer immunotherapy
• Targeting telomerase mutations linked to premature aging
• Modulating Nrf2/MafG interactions in inflammation-related cataracts

Publications: His work spans peptide engineering, drug conjugates, and natural product-derived inhibitors, with notable contributions to PPI modulation strategies and immuno-oncology.

Awards: Endeavour Research Fellowship (2014).

Advising & Grants: Supervises multiple PhD students and postdocs, including Dr. Suzanne van Wier. Active in securing funding from initiatives like the Big C Appeal and Engineering & Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC).

Labs/Teams: Collaborates widely, with projects involving the University of British Columbia, Prof. Mark Searcey, and teams exploring spectroscopic/synthetic facilities for supramolecular systems.