Scott Lokey

Scott Lokey enriches the academic discourse on chemical biology and drug development as a distinguished Professor of Chemistry at the University of California, Santa Cruz. Since establishing his research lab in 2002, Dr. Lokey has been at the forefront of exploring the intricate relationships between stereochemistry and N-methylation patterns in cell permeability. His pioneering work aims to develop selective drug scaffolds, contributing significantly to the field of chemical biology. Dr. Lokey's academic journey began with a PhD from the University of Texas at Austin, where he studied under the mentorship of Dr. Brent Iverson. Following his doctoral studies, he expanded his expertise through postdoctoral research at Genentech and Harvard Medical School. These experiences equipped him with a robust foundation in chemical biology, which he brought back to the West Coast, enriching the academic and research environment at UCSC. A notable achievement in Dr. Lokey's career is the founding of the UCSC Chemical Screening Center. This facility is instrumental in supporting high-throughput assays, not only for his research group but also for colleagues across the department. The center exemplifies his commitment to fostering collaborative research and advancing scientific discovery within the university community. Dr. Lokey's research group, affectionately known as the Lokey Group, is a hub of creativity and innovation. His passion for chemical biology inspires his team to push the boundaries of knowledge and explore novel approaches to drug development. Under his guidance, the group has made significant strides in understanding the chemical underpinnings of drug action and selectivity. Beyond his research, Dr. Lokey is deeply committed to mentoring the next generation of scientists. He actively engages with students and colleagues, sharing his insights and fostering an environment of intellectual curiosity. His dedication to education and research excellence has made him a respected figure in the academic community. In addition to his academic pursuits, Dr. Lokey is an advocate for interdisciplinary collaboration, recognizing the value of diverse perspectives in advancing scientific knowledge. His work continues to influence the field of chemical biology, driving innovation and contributing to the development of new therapeutic strategies.