Our researchers are a fierce driving force behind therapeutic development and future treatment. Let’s find out what makes them so passionate about KIF1A! Each month, one of our invested members of the KIF1A Research Network will be in the spotlight. Doug Chapnick, PhD, is next up to share a bit about himself and what makes science so exciting!
Douglas Chapnick, PhD
Founder & CEO, BioLoomicsDoug is an entrepreneur and biotechnology developer. He received his PhD and completed his Post Doctoral Research in Multiomics from University of Colorado, Boulder. Doug’s academic career initially focused on understanding the molecular mechanisms behind signaling networks and cell behavior. He was an integral team member in the DARPA Rapid Threat Assessment project at The University of Colorado, Boulder, where he gained expertise in proteomics, metabolomics, and phenotypic microscopy screening. He has also authored over 16 academic research publications.
He is the Co-Founder and CEO of BioLoomics. BioLoomics’ drug discovery mission is to improve target specificity and tackle disease with the first biosensing biologics. BioLoomics makes drug screening possible in a matter of weeks by using engineered fluorescent biosensor proteins. These live-cell biosensor assays enable continuous monitoring of challenging targets at specific locations in intact signaling networks.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?
I would stop and start time. Then, I would always be well rested, always have enough time, and always be able to take a break.
When did you know you wanted to be a scientist? Why were you drawn to this field?
Young…maybe 8 years old. I started breeding rabbits with my pets….and it spun out of control into a fascination with animals…then cells…then proteins. I am drawn to KIF1A and KAND because I want to help my friends and the other families with KAND combat this disease until we are successful.
What do you love most about your job?
I love that we are working on translational science, and that every day we do not know what to expect from each experimental result.
What is the most challenging aspect of your job?
Designing experiments and programs almost always shows problems, but the most challenging part is to respond to technical hurdles efficiently.
What development are you most excited about in terms of KIF1A research?
Finding a new target that already has an FDA approved drug.
I couldn’t get through a day at work without:
Caffeine and Cookies
I am most motivated by:
Family, Curiosity, and Seeking Harmony
When you are not studying KIF1A, what do you do?
I go hiking and biking with my wife and son, fix up our house, and garden.