Biochemistry and Biophysics

Welcome our new faculty Clint Stalnecker

Carolyn Clabo — Tue, 20 Jan 2026 15:03:05 +0000

We are delighted to announce that Dr. Clint Stalnecker joined the Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics as a tenure-track Assistant Professor, on December 15, 2025. He has been appointed as a full member of the Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center.

Carolina Scientific Magazine showcases research in our department

Carolyn Clabo — Wed, 14 Jan 2026 14:27:24 +0000

Over half the articles in Fall 2025's issue feature our labs—discover 14 stories of innovation and student-driven science in UNC’s top research magazine!

Welcome our new faculty Joanna Kovalski

Carolyn Clabo — Tue, 13 Jan 2026 20:03:18 +0000

We are delighted to announce that Dr. Joanna Kovalski has joined the Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics as a tenure-track Assistant Professor, effective January 12, 2026. She has been appointed as a full member of the Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center.

Bergmeier lab research video published on UNC Health YouTube

Carolyn Clabo — Mon, 12 Jan 2026 15:13:20 +0000

See platelet science in action! Watch the Bergmeier lab’s video on better transfusion strategies and bleeding disorders. Dr. Wolfgang Bergmeier and his lab are uncovering how platelet dysfunction affects bleeding and clotting in patients. Their research is shaping more effective transfusion strategies and new combination therapies to improve patient care.

Make a mental health resolutions for the new year

Carolyn Clabo — Thu, 08 Jan 2026 17:41:03 +0000

UNC School of Medicine social worker Jeff Neer has six suggestions for improving mental and emotional well-being.

Wellness: Welcome back, Tar Heels

Carolyn Clabo — Thu, 08 Jan 2026 16:50:53 +0000

Setting up the semester for success—together: Welcome back to campus, Tar Heels. As the semester begins, you may be feeling excited, overwhelmed, or somewhere in between. However you’re arriving to this moment, Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) is here to support you...

Derek Bolhuis earns his PhD

Carolyn Clabo — Fri, 02 Jan 2026 21:09:26 +0000

On December 19th, 2025, Derek Bolhuis, a graduate student in the Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, successfully defended his thesis titled “USP37 Earns its PH-D, and How it Ensures Cell Cycle Progression.” Derek Bolhuis conducted his research jointly mentored in the labs of Drs. Nicholas Brown and Michael Emanuele.

Aleksei Martianov PhD, receives the ASH Richard T. Silver, MD Abstract Achievement Award

Carolyn Clabo — Wed, 31 Dec 2025 21:42:22 +0000

His work was selected for an oral presentation, highlighted in the prestigious “Best of ASH” program, and further recognized with the inaugural ASH Richard T. Silver, MD Abstract Achievement Award for Myeloproliferative Neoplasms — a significant achievement underscoring the impact of his scientific contributions.

Science, Persistence, and Firsts: The Life of Mary Ellen Jones

Carolyn Clabo — Wed, 31 Dec 2025 15:10:26 +0000

We would like to honor Mary Ellen Jones, PhD. You may recognize her name from the building that sits on the edge of the UNC Medical Center campus, but Jones is recognized for so much more.

Humeyra Kaanoglu and Yasemin K. Akyel PhD first co-authors on Sancar lab glioblastoma research pub in PNAS

Carolyn Clabo — Wed, 31 Dec 2025 14:37:47 +0000

A new study from the Sancar Lab and collaborators at UNC-Chapel Hill, published in PNAS, highlights a promising future therapeutic strategy for glioblastoma (GBM), one of the most aggressive and treatment-resistant brain cancers.

Maria Al Haddad receives the Dianne Harris Leadership Award

Carolyn Clabo — Fri, 19 Dec 2025 17:15:06 +0000

In December 2025, Maria Al Haddad, PhD Candidate received the Dianne Harris Graduate Student Award for exemplary leadership.

2025 Holiday Party Highlights and Awards

Carolyn Clabo — Thu, 11 Dec 2025 18:53:15 +0000

On December 11, 2025, the Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics came together at La Residence restaurant to celebrate our achievements from the past year. We were happy to host a fantastic gathering with approximately 85 members in attendance, marking a memorable close to 2025. We enjoyed a delicious lunch and desserts by the La Residence French restaurant, conversations, laughter, and encouragement.

2025 Year in Review: Jean Cook, PhD, Chair of Biochemistry and Biophysics, shared our good news from 2025.