Walter K. Schmidt

Walter K. Schmidt is a Professor and Associate Head in the Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology at the University of Georgia, where he has held faculty positions since 2001. He is also a Georgia Cancer Coalition Scholar and a Josiah Meigs Distinguished Teaching Professor (2025). His research focuses on post-translational modifications of CaaX-type proteins, particularly their roles in cancer and neurodegenerative diseases.

• Education: B.A. in Biochemistry/Biology (1989) from Rice University; Ph.D. in Molecular and Cell Biology (1995) from UC-Berkeley; Postdoctoral work (1995-2001) at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine under Susan Michaelis.

Dr. Schmidt’s work investigates the enzymology of protein prenylation, proteolysis, and carboxylmethylation, with a focus on the CaaX proteases Rce1p and Ste24p. His lab discovered a shunt pathway for prenylation-only CaaX proteins, which influences their localization and function. Additionally, his team studies M16A proteases (e.g., Ste23p) for their roles in amyloid degradation, linking them to Alzheimer’s disease.

His 15 most recent articles span biochemical assays, yeast models, and therapeutic targeting of CaaX proteases, with implications for cancer, aging, and amyloid disorders. His lab’s interdisciplinary approach integrates structural biology, chemical tools, and computational methods to dissect these pathways.

Scientific Awards include multiple mentoring honors (2023 Outstanding Mentoring Award, 2021 Excellence in Research Mentoring), teaching recognitions (2022 Thank-a-Teacher, 2011 Outstanding Instructor), and conference leadership roles. He has secured NIH/NCI RAS Initiative funding and trained students for impactful careers in academia and industry.