The Lubell laboratory performs research in medicinal chemistry and peptide science, with particular interest in the development of novel effective methods for the synthesis of heterocycles, amino acids, peptides and peptide mimics.

Our goal is to develop a deeper understanding of enzyme structure-function relationships so as to more readily modify enzymes for defined purposes. Enzyme modification is a promising field, with a growing number of major industries rapidly increasing their activities in this sector, notably because policy changes now encourage the use of environmentally-friendly catalysts such as enzymes. The power of enzyme engineering has increased dramatically in the past 10 years. In our laboratory, we conduct combinatorial mutagenesis at the active site of enzymes then select those with the properties that interest us, in a process known as ‘accelerated evolution’. We then perform detailed kinetic and biophysical characterization as well as computer-assisted molecular modelling, to identify modified enzymes that will serve as useful catalysts. A further important focus of our work is gaining insight into enzymes that cause drug resistance, with applications in the health sector. By this approach to enzyme modification and characterization, we will contribute to bridge the gap between disciplines such as Bio-Organic Chemistry, Biochemistry and Bio-informatics that are all essential to the further development of modern enzymology.

Professor Schmitzer’s research combines organic, bio-organic and supramolecular chemistry, with the goal of gaining insight into how molecular recognition and motion can be combined, for the development of new catalytic systems and new transmembrane transporters.

Professor Vallée-Bélisle and his group are inspired by nature in developing biotechnologies and nanotechnologies (biosensors, nanomachines, etc.) aimed at making real improvements in global health and environmental issues.