Afroza Akhtar

Highly motivated and results-driven biochemist and structural biologist with a strong background in protein biochemistry, structure-based drug design, virtual screening, and molecular docking. Experienced in small molecule/fragment-based drug discovery, in vitro biochemical assay development, and drug assessment using chemiluminescence and colorimetric assays. Proficient in molecular biology techniques such as cloning, site-directed mutagenesis, recombinant protein expression, purification, and characterization using various biochemical and biophysical methods. Skilled in protein-ligand complex structure determination through X-ray crystallography and studying protein structure and dynamics using NMR. Demonstrates expertise in in-vitro experimental planning, assay design, hit-to-lead identification, and optimization using SAR methods. Diligent Scientist with a proven track record of contributing to significant academic publications. Possesses versatile skills in project management, problem-solving, and collaboration. Brings a fresh perspective and strong commitment to quality and success. Skilled researcher enthusiastic about supporting advancements in Protein Engineering. Ready to apply knowledge and ten years of experience in research to make a valuable contribution.

• Structural basis for substrate specificity and carbapenemase activity of OXA-48 Class D β-lactamase, ACS Infectious Diseases, 6, 2, 261–271, 12/24/19
• Active-Site Druggability of Carbapenemases and Broad-Spectrum Inhibitor Discovery, ACS Infectious Disease, 5, 6, 1013–1021, 04/03/19
• Heteroaryl Phosphonates as Noncovalent Inhibitors of Both Serine- and Metallocarbapenemases, ACS J. Med. Chem., 62, 18, 8480–8496, 09/04/19
• Discovery of dual-activity small-molecule ligands of Pseudomonas aeruginosa Lpxa and LpxD using SPR and X-ray crystallography, Nature Scientific Reports, 9, 15450, 10/29/19