Kevan Shokat

Kevan Shokat is a Professor in the Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology at the University of California San Francisco (UCSF), where he leads a research group focused on chemical biology, kinase signaling, and targeted cancer therapies. His work bridges pharmacology, biochemistry, and oncology, with a strong emphasis on developing novel inhibitors for previously 'undruggable' targets like KRAS.

His research interests center on signal transduction pathways in cancer, particularly the roles of Ras, mTOR, and kinase networks. He pioneered chemical genetic approaches using analog-sensitive kinases to map substrate networks and identify drug targets. His lab investigates mechanisms of drug resistance, oncogenic signaling, and the development of covalent inhibitors for mutant KRAS variants (e.g., G12C, G12D). He also explores mTOR modulation in cancer and neurodegeneration, and has contributed significantly to understanding kinase regulation and proteome dynamics.

His recent publications highlight a strong trend in targeting oncogenic GTPases, developing chemical probes for spatial signaling, and uncovering resistance mechanisms in kinase inhibitors. The work spans structural biology, chemical probe design, and systems-level proteomics, often in collaboration with clinical and translational teams.

Dr. Shokat has received numerous scientific honors, though specific awards are not listed in the text. His editorial roles and high-impact publications suggest recognition as a leader in chemical biology.

He advises numerous students and postdoctoral researchers, as evidenced by his extensive co-authorship network. His lab also secures significant research grants, particularly in cancer drug discovery and kinase biology, though specific grants are not detailed.

His laboratory is part of the UCSF academic and research ecosystem, collaborating across departments and institutions to advance chemical biology and therapeutic development.