Benjamin H. Kwok

Benjamin H. Kwok, PhD, is an Associate Professor in the Department of Oral Biology at the University of Nebraska Medical Center's College of Dentistry. His research laboratory focuses on molecular mechanisms of cell division, microtubule-based systems, and cancer development using interdisciplinary approaches in chemical biology, structural analysis, and cellular genetics.

Education

• BSc in Chemistry & Biochemistry, State University of New York at Stony Brook
• MS, MPhil, and PhD in Molecular, Cellular & Developmental Biology, Yale University
• Postdoctoral Fellowship in Chemistry & Cell Biology, Rockefeller University

Research Focus

Dr. Kwok investigates fundamental processes including: 1) Molecular machinery of cell division using chemical probes; 2) Microtubule dynamics in cellular organization and disease; 3) Kinesin motor protein functions in genome stability and cancer pathogenesis. His work bridges structural biology, drug discovery, and translational cancer research.

Publication Analysis

Recent publications (2014-2021) demonstrate strong emphasis on microtubule regulators (kinesin-13, KIF14), DNA damage response, and structural mechanisms of cell division proteins. Collaborative studies frequently integrate cryo-EM, biochemical assays, and disease models, revealing therapeutic targets in cancer and developmental disorders.

Awards & Honors

• Merck Postdoctoral Fellowship (2004-2007)
• FRQS Junior Investigator Awards (2010-2019)
• CIHR New Investigator Award (2013-2017)

Grants & Funding

Principal Investigator for multiple extramural grants including:

• NIH Subcontract: Microtubule regulators in DNA damage/cancer therapy (2021-2025)
• CIHR Project Grant: Chemical modulation of kinesin-13 (2017-2022)
• NSERC Discovery Grant: KIF14 modulation mechanisms (2015-2020)
• CRS/CCSRI Grants: Kinesin-targeted cancer therapeutics (2015-2017)