Shubhik DebBurman

Shubhik DebBurman is the Disque D. and Carol Gram Deane Professor of Biology, Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, and Neuroscience at Lake Forest College. He holds joint appointments in the Neuroscience Program and Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Program. His research focuses on protein misfolding diseases like Parkinson's, using yeast models to study α-synuclein toxicity and cellular stress responses. He has pioneered undergraduate research programs, mentoring over 200 students, and developed innovative teaching methods emphasizing experiential learning.

Education includes a B.A. from Wittenberg University, Ph.D. in Neuroscience from Northwestern University, and postdoctoral training at the University of Chicago and NIH. He has held leadership roles including Chair of the Biology Department (2017–2020), Chair of Neuroscience Program (2020–present), and Senior Director for Science Partnerships (2020–2023). His awards span teaching excellence (Lake Forest College Trustee Award), research mentorship (CUR Biology Division Mentor Award), and professional recognition (FUN Career Achievement Award).

Key research contributions include identifying α-synuclein's role in Parkinson's disease mechanisms, autophagic regulation of protein toxicity, and endocytic pathway interactions. He has secured over $5M in grants, including NIH R15 awards and NSF funding for curriculum innovation. His service includes leading national organizations like Nu Rho Psi and Chicago Society for Neuroscience, and advising student groups such as the award-winning Lake Forest College Neuroscience chapter.