Lukasz Kurgan, Ph.D., the Robert J. Mattauch Professor and Associate Chair of VCU's Department of Computer Science, has been inducted into the European Academy of Sciences and Arts (EASA). He is among 38 new members EASA selected from 11 nations. The induction ceremony took place in April 2023 in Salzburg, Austria.
Kurgan's research aims to improve understanding of life at the molecular level using computer-based modeling. His research team specializes in computational characterization of proteins, with the long-term goals to define the relations between protein sequences, structures and functions and to apply this new knowledge to uncover mechanisms underlying selected diseases and their therapeutic interventions. Researchers only understand the functions of a tiny fraction of the nearly 250 million known protein sequences, with millions of new sequences uncovered each year. Kurgan’s work is driven by the desire to fill this information gap. His interdisciplinary research combines bioinformatics, data science, machine learning, statistics, molecular biology and biophysics, paving the way for groundbreaking discoveries. In a recent highlight, Kurgan's team gained international recognition for methods that accurately predict intrinsic disorder in proteins.
"Induction into the EASA serves as a testament to Dr. Kurgan's achievements and commitment to advancing scientific knowledge,” said Preetam Ghosh, Ph.D., interim chair of the Department of Computer Science. “His membership in this prestigious institution further solidifies his position as a leader in the field of protein bioinformatics and highlights the global impact of his research."
Kurgan acknowledges this recognition stems from a team effort. “My students and postdocs are the driving force behind my work,” Kurgan said. “Mentoring and supporting them is one of the true pleasures of my academic career. I am forever grateful for the time we shared together and their talents, hard work and dedication that undoubtedly contributed to this recognition.”
The European Academy of Sciences and Arts is a European non-governmental association committed to promoting scientific and societal progress. The 2,000 members associated with the organization are leading scientists, artists and practitioners of governance who are dedicated to innovative research, interdisciplinary and transnational collaboration as well as the exchange and dissemination of knowledge. Academy members are elected for their outstanding achievements in science, arts and governance.