Francis Tsai Lab

The Tsai Lab of Structural Biochemistry is in the Verna and Marrs McLean Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology at Baylor College of Medicine. The focus of our research is to provide a molecular and mechanistic understanding of how protein quality control machines maintain proteostasis under normal and pathological conditions in vitro and in their native environment. A key objective is to determine the structure and function of stress proteins originating from all domains of life. We value diversity in all its forms and are committed to cultivating an inclusive and scholarly environment for all trainees to reach their full potential.

Norman Hackerman Award in Chemical Research

The Welch Foundation selected Dr. Francis T.F. Tsai, Associate Professor of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, and Molecular and Cellular Biology, as the recipient of the 2008 Norman Hackerman Award in Chemical Research for his innovative work on determining three-dimensional structures of molecular chaperones and multi-component protein assemblies involved in transcription regulation. Dr. Tsai's research focuses on how large, energy-dependent molecular machines operate in a cell.

The Welch Foundation, one of the nation's oldest and largest sources of private funding of basic research in chemistry, presents the award annually to "honor up-and-coming young scientists at Texas colleges and universities who are 40 years of age or younger." Recipients are recognized for expanding the frontiers of chemistry through their innovate research endeavors. The award was presented at a luncheon on Feb. 13, 2008, and consisted of $100,000, a certificate and a crystal sculpture.