Christal Sohl

Christal Sohl serves as an Associate Professor of Biochemistry at San Diego State University, where she is deeply engaged in both research and education. She embarked on her academic journey with a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry from the University of Oklahoma, followed by a Ph.D. in Biochemistry from Vanderbilt University. Her postdoctoral research was conducted at Yale University, where she honed her expertise in enzymatic mechanisms and enzyme dysfunction, particularly in the context of cancer. At the heart of her research interests are DNA polymerases and kinase mutations. In her laboratory, known as the Sohl Group, she leads a team dedicated to unraveling the catalytic, structural, and functional implications of enzyme mutations associated with diseases like cancer. By delving into these molecular intricacies, her team strives to uncover potential therapeutic targets and enhance the understanding of structure-function relationships within enzymes. Sohl's commitment to education is evident in her approach to teaching, where she integrates cutting-edge techniques such as pre-steady-state kinetics, X-ray crystallography, and spectroscopy. She is passionate about equipping students with the skills necessary to excel in biochemistry, molecular biology, and biophysics. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes a collaborative learning environment, encouraging students to engage in innovative research and develop a comprehensive understanding of complex biochemical processes. Through her research and teaching, Christal Sohl aims to bridge the gap between fundamental biochemical research and practical applications in medicine. Her work not only contributes to the scientific community's understanding of enzyme-related diseases but also inspires the next generation of scientists to pursue careers in biochemistry and related fields. Her dedication to both research and education has made her a respected figure in the academic community, known for her contributions to the understanding of enzyme dysfunction and her commitment to student success.