John Burr

John Burr is an Associate Professor of Biological Sciences at The University of Texas at Dallas, affiliated with the School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics. His research focuses on oncogenic transformation mechanisms mediated by Rous sarcoma virus (RSV), particularly the role of tyrosine kinases and phosphoproteins in cellular transformation. He holds a Ph.D. in Molecular Biology from the University of California, Berkeley (1973) and a B.S. in Chemistry from the University of California, Riverside (1967).

Research Interests: Burr’s work examines viral oncogenesis, specifically the src gene’s role in converting avian cells into tumor cells. Key projects include analyzing tyrosine phosphoproteins like p120 and SAM68-related protein (SRP), their phosphorylation dynamics, and their implications in growth regulation. He employs immunoblotting with phosphotyrosine antibodies to identify substrates of pp60v-src, the viral tyrosine kinase.

Publications span molecular mechanisms of oncogenesis, protein interactions, and drug synergies affecting phosphorylation. Notable Awards include the NSM Dean’s Teaching Award (2002) and NIH/NSF grants totaling over $800k for phosphoprotein purification studies. He has supervised over 15 graduate students, including Ph.D. candidates like Ju-Seog Lee and Kwang S. Suh.

• Appointments: Adjunct Professor (2002), Visiting Scientist at University of Turin (1986)
• Fellowships: NIH Predoctoral Trainee (1967–72), Harvard Postdoctoral Fellowship (1974)
• Grants: Extensive NIH/NSF funding since 1980