Benjamin C. Gorske

Benjamin C. Gorske is an Associate Professor of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Bowdoin College, currently on leave for the 2025–2026 academic year. His research lab focuses on developing synthetic mimics of biomolecules to engineer molecular machines, advanced materials, and therapeutic interventions for diseases like cancer and Alzheimer's.

Education:

• PhD, Organic Chemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison (2007)
• BA, Chemistry, Lawrence University (1995)
• BM, Piano Performance, Lawrence University (1995)

Research Interests: The Gorske Lab employs molecular synthesis, chemical analysis, and biological activity assays to engineer peptoids (synthetic peptide analogues). Key areas include controlling peptoid secondary structures, leveraging noncovalent interactions for biomimetic functions, and applying these systems to disrupt disease mechanisms. Research spans organic chemistry, chemical biology, and materials science, with emphasis on stereoselective synthesis and structure-function relationships.

Publication Trends: Gorske's 10 most recent articles (2005–2017) focus on peptoid conformation, catalytic synthesis, and biomolecular interactions. Dominant themes include helical stabilization via electronic interactions, gold-catalyzed regioselective reactions, and peptidomimetic strategies against bacterial pathogens. His work consistently bridges fundamental organic chemistry with biomedical applications.

Awards:

• Faculty of 1000 Biology Highlight (2007) for work on tunable amide isomerism
• Faculty of 1000 Biology Tech Advance (2006) for pentafluoroaromatic peptoid design

Lab: The Gorske Lab at Bowdoin College welcomes researchers of all experience levels to study peptoid chemistry and biomimetic systems.