PhD
Professor and Chair, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics
Professor, Department of Pharmacology
UNC-Chapel Hill
Cancer Cell Biology Research Program
Area of Interest
Cell Cycle Control in Human Cells
Our lab studies the regulation of the mammalian cell cycle with a particular focus on the cell cycle phase transitions related to DNA replication, genome stability, and cell cycle exit. Projects employ live cell imaging and single cell analysis in addition to molecular genetics and biochemistry. Ultimately we hope to achieve a greater understanding of normal cell cycle control so that future therapeutic tools related to regeneration and cancer treatment can be developed.
Awards and Honors
- Honorary Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), 2025
- Recipient of the Jefferson-Pilot Fellowship in Academic Medicine
News and Stories
Cook elected to 2025 AAAS class of Honorary Fellows
The prestigious honor recognizes biochemist Jean Cook, PhD, and her work on cancer development and the human cell cycle, a biological process crucial for development, healing, and continued maintenance of the body.
UNC researchers discover an enzyme that protects DNA during rapid cell divisions
Michael Emanuele, PhD, and colleagues have discovered that an enzyme called USP37 plays a crucial role in ensuring our cells copy their DNA correctly.
