By Sian Wilkerson

Brian Fuglestad, Ph.D., an assistant professor in the Department of Chemistry in Virginia Commonwealth University’s College of Humanities and Sciences, has been recognized by pharmaceutical giant Eli Lilly and Co. for his lab’s research into proteins linked to notable diseases.

Lilly’s Analytical Chemistry Academic Contacts Committee fosters research innovation between the multinational company and the academic community by identifying rising stars in the field. Fuglestad is the recipient of the 2024 Young Investigator Award, which recognizes an emerging leader in analytical chemistry.

The award grant is $150,000 over two years, supporting ongoing work by Fuglestad and his lab.

“Our research is focused on developing new tools for analysis of proteins to understand their structure and their function, and to develop drugs against these targets,” Fuglestad said. “We are particularly interested in disease-related, membrane-associated proteins,” which are related to a number of conditions, including cancer and cardiovascular disease.

“Receiving this award means a lot,” added Fuglestad, the first VCU faculty member to receive it. “It is truly an honor to be listed among such notable names in the field. The award is an honor for all of the members of the group, and it is their hard work and dedication that earned it.”