Oliver P. Ernst

Professor Oliver P. Ernst is a Canada Excellence Research Chair in Structural Neurobiology and holds the Anne and Max Tanenbaum Chair in Neuroscience at the University of Toronto. His research focuses on transmembrane signaling mechanisms of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) and channelrhodopsins, investigating their structural dynamics and interactions with signaling proteins using cryo-EM, x-ray crystallography, and EPR spectroscopy. He teaches advanced courses in membrane protein biochemistry and leads the Ernst Lab, which has made significant contributions to understanding rhodopsin-arrestin complexes and membrane protein crystallization techniques.

• Research Areas: GPCR signaling, channelrhodopsin function, proteasome localization, and membrane protein structure-function relationships
• Key Techniques: Cryo-EM, x-ray crystallography, EPR spectroscopy

His recent publications reveal trends in light-gated ion channels, proteasome dynamics, and structural analysis of rhodopsin complexes. The lab's work spans fundamental mechanisms of cell signaling and innovative methods for membrane protein structural biology.

• Scientific Awards: Konrad Adenauer Research Award (2020), Canada Excellence Research Chair (2011-2017), Anne and Max Tanenbaum Chair (2011-2021)

The Ernst Lab actively investigates GPCR phosphorylation codes, membrane protein crystallization techniques, and proteasome adaptations to metabolic stress, with significant implications for understanding health and disease mechanisms.