Dr. Eric N. Jacobsen's lab focuses on developing new methods for catalytic reactions that select for specific molecular structures, which is critical for creating complex organic molecules used in pharmaceuticals and other applications. The research aims to design small organic catalysts that are both effective and environmentally friendly, enabling efficient synthesis of chiral compounds important for public health. This work blends creativity in catalyst design with rigorous scientific investigation to solve complex challenges in organic chemistry.

Brian Liau's lab at Harvard University focuses on understanding how chromatin complexes, which play a crucial role in regulating gene expression, function and are altered in cancer. The lab uses innovative chemical genetic approaches to investigate the mechanisms by which these complexes operate, with a particular emphasis on the enzyme LSD1 and its interactions with other proteins. By exploring these interactions, the lab aims to uncover new strategies for cancer treatment through pharmacological targeting of chromatin complexes.

The Woo Lab at Harvard University focuses on understanding the role of a sugar modification called O-GlcNAc in the brain, particularly its connection to sleep, circadian rhythms, and Alzheimer's disease. They are developing techniques to precisely manipulate this modification on specific proteins in targeted neurons, which could lead to better therapies for neurodegenerative diseases. Using model systems like Drosophila (fruit flies), the lab aims to discover new molecular mechanisms and small molecules that could improve health outcomes related to these conditions.

Dr. Daniel Kahne's lab at Harvard University focuses on the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria, a critical structure that helps these pathogens resist many antibiotics. The lab investigates the protein machinery involved in assembling this membrane, aiming to uncover how certain antibiotics disrupt this process. By understanding these mechanisms, the lab hopes to develop new inhibitors that can effectively combat antibiotic-resistant infections.

Dr. Eugene I Shakhnovich's lab at Harvard University focuses on understanding how bacteria adapt to challenges like antibiotic stress through rigorous experimental and theoretical approaches. By developing models that map the relationship between molecular properties and evolutionary fitness, the lab aims to predict how pathogens evolve and resist treatment. This research could lead to innovative strategies for combating antibiotic resistance and improving therapeutic interventions.

Dr. Andrew G. Myers' lab at Harvard University focuses on developing new antibiotics to combat the growing problem of antibiotic resistance, particularly against multi-drug resistant bacteria. The research involves synthesizing innovative antibiotic compounds and studying their mechanisms of action to combat pathogens that pose significant threats to public health. This work aims to deliver novel antibiotic options that can effectively treat serious bacterial infections that have become resistant to existing drugs.

Dr. Xiaowei Zhuang's lab at Harvard University focuses on understanding the human brain by studying its diverse cell types and their functions. The team uses advanced imaging techniques to build detailed maps of brain cells, shedding light on how they interact and change with age. This research has the potential to improve our understanding of brain diseases and the aging process.