Eric T. Kool

Professor Eric T. Kool is a distinguished faculty member at the Department of Chemical Engineering at Stanford University. Holding the prestigious title of George A. and Hilda M. Daubert Professor of Chemistry, he has made significant contributions to the field of nucleic acids chemistry. Professor Kool earned his Ph.D. from Columbia University, followed by postdoctoral research at Caltech, where he honed his expertise in nucleic acids. His research is centered around the intricate world of nucleic acids, with a particular focus on developing innovative chemical tools for mapping RNA structure. Professor Kool is deeply invested in the stabilization and conjugation of RNAs, as well as creating probes for DNA repair pathways, which are crucial in understanding and combating cancer. His work in these areas not only enhances our comprehension of fundamental biological processes but also holds promise for advancing cancer diagnostics and treatment strategies. In addition to his work on natural nucleic acids, Professor Kool is pioneering the design and synthesis of unnatural DNA and RNA bases. This groundbreaking research aims to develop a new orthogonal genetic system, which could revolutionize our understanding of genetic coding and expand the possibilities for genetic engineering. Professor Kool's lab is at the forefront of exploring DNA base excision repair and other DNA repair pathways, providing insights that are vital for both basic science and the development of anticancer strategies. His contributions to the field are widely recognized, and his work continues to inspire advancements in biomedicine and the broader scientific community.