Biochemistry and Biophysics

Welcome Dr. Shota Kudo Visiting Scholar in the Kuhlman lab

Carolyn Clabo — Fri, 25 Apr 2025 14:58:37 +0000

We are pleased to introduce Dr. Shota Kudo, our new Visiting Scholar in the Kuhlman lab. Dr. Kudo comes from Japan and has an impressive background in pharmaceutical research.

Strahl lab undergrad receives many Awards at ��

Carolyn Clabo — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 13:15:02 +0000

Phu Nguyen, undergraduate researcher in the Strahl lab, has received The Edward Kidder Graham Award and the Bryan Public Service Award from the Chancellor. He also received the Stephen Brantley Undergraduate Award for his honors thesis!

Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics enables laboratory employees to pursue a Master’s degree

Carolyn Clabo — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 15:18:59 +0000

The Special Master’s Program for employees in the Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics enables laboratory employees to pursue a Master’s degree on a part-time basis while working full-time in the Department. The faculty member in whose laboratory the employee works will normally be their research advisor, and must agree to the employee’s participation in the program. The Special Master’s program is designed to help research technicians increase their level of participation in and contribution to the scientific activities of their current laboratories.

Heels Care Network offers resources for mental health

Carolyn Clabo — Mon, 14 Apr 2025 17:11:58 +0000

Heels Care Network is a hub for mental health and well-being resources, including links to 24/7 support, training opportunities and suicide prevention resources. It also features a live chat and a link to an anonymous care referral form for anyone to report concerns they have for a student. The website features a comprehensive, user-friendly database of mental health resources. More info.

Dr. Pittman co-presented the 2025 Microbiology Society Prize Lecture

Carolyn Clabo — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 18:45:52 +0000

Dr. Nikea Pittman was honored as a recipient of the Microbiology Society’s inaugural Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion award. During the opening ceremony in Liverpool, UK, Dr. Pittman co-presented the Prize Lecture along with Drs. Donovan-Banfield and Taylor on behalf of Black Microbiologists Association.

Prestigious External Fellowship Winner announced

Carolyn Clabo — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 18:23:40 +0000

Dillon Sloan, graduate student in the Baker lab received an NIH Fellow (F31) National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research for his project entitled “Molecular mechanism of CCDC32 in Cardiofacioneurodevelopmental syndrome.” Dillon also has a fellowship with the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science.

Spring Happy Hour at Tallulas Turkish restaurant

Carolyn Clabo — Wed, 09 Apr 2025 15:24:02 +0000

�� Biochemistry and Biophysics faculty, students, staff, and postdocs gather for our Spring Happy Hour at Tallulas Turkish restaurant in Chapel Hill, NC.

Even during challenging times, we gather together to support one another. This event was a wonderful opportunity for our community to connect, share experiences, and enjoy some delicious food. The atmosphere was filled with camaraderie and positivity, reminding us of the strength and resilience of our department.

Thank you to everyone who attended and made this event memorable.

Sancar lab trainee in the news: Hümeyra Kaanoğlu

Carolyn Clabo — Wed, 09 Apr 2025 13:13:34 +0000

Spotlight on Fulbright scholar from Türkiye: Hümeyra Kaanoğlu. She pursues biochemical research in Aziz Sancar’s lab that focuses on DNA enzymology and genomics, the mammalian circadian clock and DNA repair.

Congrats to Dr Brian Kuhlman 2025 Protein Society award winner

Carolyn Clabo — Wed, 09 Apr 2025 11:54:33 +0000

Congratulations to Dr. Brian Kuhlman.

The Protein Society announced the 2025 TPS award winners, who recognize excellence across the diverse disciplines that collectively advance our understanding of proteins; their structure, function, design, and application. The Awards honor researchers who have distinguished themselves with significant achievements in protein research and those who have made outstanding contributions in leadership, teaching, and service. TPS members and non-members may submit nominations, which are awarded by Executive Council, and recipients are honored at the Annual Symposium (June 26-29, San Francisco, California).

We celebrated Jewish American Cultural Heritage

Carolyn Clabo — Sat, 05 Apr 2025 19:45:35 +0000

We embrace inclusivity and celebrate our unique differences to strengthen community engagement with our monthly inclusive gathering lunches.

In April 2025, we gathered for Jewish American Cultural Heritage. Dr. Joshua Strauss gave a talk and members gathered for fellowship over food and conversations.

Research Pillar: Develop Tomorrow’s Breakthroughs Today (PRISM offers postbac funding)

Carolyn Clabo — Fri, 04 Apr 2025 12:51:58 +0000

PRISM, a �� and BioSTAR initiative, offers “Bright Futures in Science and Medicine” for postbac students. Apply by May 1 (Summer) or July 1 (Fall) 2025! Special thanks to Dr. Brian Strahl, Associate Dean for Research. To apply or learn more, please visit /pbrp/. For inquiries, contact prismprogram@med.unc.edu

Mark Kowalewski earned his PhD!

Carolyn Clabo — Mon, 31 Mar 2025 21:07:29 +0000

Mark Kowalewski successfully defended his dissertation entitled “Mucin degrading glycoside hydrolases in the gut microbiome” on March 31, 2025, under the direction of Dr. Matthew Redinbo.