Thomas Charles Pochapsky

Thomas Charles Pochapsky is a Professor of Chemistry and Biochemistry in the Department of Chemistry at Brandeis University and an Affiliated Faculty member at the Rosenstiel Basic Medical Sciences Research Center. His research focuses on cytochrome P450 enzymes (CYPs), particularly their roles in drug metabolism and enzyme catalysis.

His research interests include:

• Structure and function of cytochrome P450 enzymes
• Substrate selectivity and regioselective oxidation mechanisms
• Design of selective CYP inhibitors for therapeutic applications
• Application of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy in enzymology
• Integration of site-directed mutagenesis, enzyme assays, and organic synthesis in biochemical research

Although no recent publications are listed in the provided text, his work centers on advancing the mechanistic understanding of CYPs and developing safer, more effective inhibitors for diseases such as cancer, tuberculosis, fungal infections, and nicotine addiction.

Notable scientific awards and honors include:

• Richard A. Glenn Award for Coal Chemistry, ACS (1981)
• Fuson Award for Excellence in Organic Graduate Research, UIUC (1985)
• Michael L. Walzer '56 Award for Teaching, Brandeis University (1992)
• Camille and Henry Dreyfus Teacher-Scholar Award (1993–1995)

Pochapsky is recognized for both his scholarly contributions and excellence in teaching. He mentors students in biochemistry and chemical biology, though specific advisees are not listed. His research has been supported by competitive grants, including the Dreyfus Teacher-Scholar Award. He is actively involved in the academic and research community at Brandeis, particularly through the Rosenstiel Center, where he conducts interdisciplinary work in basic medical sciences.

His laboratory at the Rosenstiel Basic Medical Sciences Research Center integrates biophysical, biochemical, and synthetic approaches to study enzyme function and design novel inhibitors, contributing to both fundamental science and translational applications.