Başar Bilgiçer

Başar Bilgiçer is a Professor in the Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering and Concurrent Professor in the Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry at the University of Notre Dame. His research bridges biochemistry, nanotechnology, and medicine, focusing on multivalent biomolecular interactions and their application in disease treatment.

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Tufts University (2005)
• Postdoctoral Fellow, Harvard University (2005–2008)
• B.S. in Chemistry, Bogazici University, Turkey (1998)

His research interests lie in multivalent biomolecular interactions, particularly in designing therapeutic and diagnostic molecules for complex diseases such as cancer, autoimmune disorders, and allergies. His lab develops multifunctional nanoparticles for selective drug delivery and imaging, aiming to reduce non-specific toxicity and improve targeting of pharmaceutical antibodies through engineered cooperativity. A significant focus is on inhibiting allergic responses, especially peanut anaphylaxis, using novel inhibitor designs.

The recent publications highlight a strong trend in translational nanomedicine, with applications in metastatic cancers (ovarian, breast, multiple myeloma) and allergy immunotherapy. The work combines nanoparticle engineering, targeted delivery, and disease-specific molecular design, often validated in preclinical models. Keywords across these studies include GRP78 targeting, DM1 prodrug chemistry, IgE inhibition, and nanoallergens, indicating a cohesive research program at the intersection of chemistry, immunology, and biomedical engineering.

While no specific awards are listed in the text, his work has received notable media coverage, including features in Notre Dame Stories and WSBT TV, highlighting the societal impact of his research on peanut allergy prevention.

• Prevented peanut anaphylaxis in humanized mouse models
• Developed first functional targeted inhibitors of peanut allergens
• Engineered high-affinity complexes to improve antibody selectivity

Başar Bilgiçer leads an active research group at Notre Dame, where he mentors graduate students and collaborates on interdisciplinary projects. His lab, the Bilgicer Group, is focused on pushing the boundaries of multivalent therapeutics and translating biochemical insights into clinical solutions for unmet medical needs.