William M. Clemons, Jr.

William M. (Bil) Clemons, Jr. is the Arthur and Marian Hanisch Memorial Professor of Biochemistry at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech), affiliated with the Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering. He has held this position since 2007, following roles as Assistant Professor of Chemistry at Caltech (2005-2007) and earlier academic appointments. His research focuses on membrane protein structure, protein synthesis and translocation, and structural biology techniques such as X-ray crystallography.

Education: B.S. from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (1995), Ph.D. from the University of Utah (2000).

Research Interests: The Clemons Lab investigates molecular mechanisms of protein transport across membranes, post-translational modifications like glycosylation, and challenges in membrane protein overexpression. Current projects include the Sec/Tat membrane translocation pathways, eukaryotic glycosylation processes, and the Get3 chaperone system for tail-anchored proteins. Techniques employed include X-ray crystallography, biochemistry, mass spectrometry, and electron microscopy.

Publications reflect a blend of experimental structural biology and discussions on equity in science, including studies on phage antibiotics, DPAGT1 inhibitors, and the experiences of Black scientists in biophysics. His work bridges fundamental biological mechanisms with translational applications in drug design.

Teaching and Mentorship: Prof. Clemons instructs courses like Ch/Bi 110 (Biochemistry) and contributes to advanced seminars (BMB/Ch 202, BMB/Bi/Ch 173). His lab emphasizes training diverse early-career scientists in structural biology, believing inclusivity drives scientific innovation.