Douglas C. Rees

Douglas C. Rees is the Roscoe Gilkey Dickinson Professor of Chemistry and an Investigator at the Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech). He serves as Executive Officer for Biochemistry and has held leadership roles including Dean of Graduate Studies (2015-2020) and Executive Officer for Chemistry (2002-2006).

• B.S., Yale University, 1974
• Ph.D., Harvard University, 1980

Research Interests: The Rees group focuses on the structural biology of complex metalloproteins and integral membrane proteins involved in ATP-dependent energy transduction processes. Their work on nitrogenase has elucidated the FeMo-cofactor and Mo-cofactor structures crucial to biological nitrogen and sulfur cycles. Membrane protein studies address photosynthesis, mechanosensation, and nutrient transport via bacterial ABC transporters. Research integrates X-ray crystallography and cryoEM to capture conformational dynamics under turnover conditions.

Recent Publications (2023-2024): Recent work spans nitrogenase structural evolution under alkaline turnover, cryoEM protocols for air-sensitive proteins, and mechanistic insights into ABC transporters. Articles emphasize structural energetics, ligand translocation mechanisms, and advanced spectroscopic modeling. Key journals include Nature Communications and NFEBS Letters.

Scientific Recognition:

• HHMI Investigator
• Roscoe Gilkey Dickinson Professor

Teaching and Leadership: He co-teaches Caltech's flagship biochemistry course (Ch/Bi 110) and has led graduate education initiatives as Dean of Graduate Studies. His lab operates in the Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, focusing on interdisciplinary collaborations with HHMI.