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Michael C. Fitzgerald

Professor of Chemistry
Chemistry
Box 90346, Durham, NC 27708-0346
3222 French Science Center, 124 Science Drive, Durham, NC 27708

Overview


Dr. Fitzgerald’s research group is focused on studies of protein folding and function. The group utilizes a combination of covalent labeling strategies (e.g. protein amide H/D exchange and methionine oxidiation) and mass spectrometry techniques to investigate the thermodynamic properties of protein folding and ligand binding reactions. Current research efforts involve: (1) the development new biophysical methods that enable protein folding and stability measurements to be performed on the proteomic scale; and (2) the application of these new methods in the areas of disease detection, diagnosis, and therapy.

Current Appointments & Affiliations


Professor of Chemistry · 2011 - Present Chemistry, Trinity College of Arts & Sciences
Chair of Chemistry · 2024 - Present Chemistry, Trinity College of Arts & Sciences
Professor of Biochemistry · 2011 - Present Biochemistry, Basic Science Departments

In the News


Published October 19, 2016
Dust Mite Allergens Share Rare Combo of Qualities

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Recent Publications


Extrinsic and intrinsic factors affect copper-induced protein precipitation across eukaryotic and prokaryotic proteomes.

Journal Article Protein science : a publication of the Protein Society · June 2025 The susceptibility of a protein to aggregation upon exposure to copper ions (Cu) has been recognized as a contributor to Cu-induced cellular dysfunction and toxicity. Different cell types succumb to Cu to varying degrees, indicating innate differences betw ... Full text Cite

Covalent inhibition of <i>Plasmodium falciparum</i> Ubc13 impairs global protein synthesis.

Journal Article iScience · June 2025 The ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme 13 (Ubc13) has an essential function and putative role in artemisinin activity against Plasmodium falciparum. Ubc13 conjugates lysine 63-linked ubiquitin (K63-Ub) to proteins, but the role of this modification in ... Full text Cite
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Recent Grants


Chemical Biology Strategies to Resolve Plasmodium Heat Shock Protein Function

ResearchCo Investigator · Awarded by National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases · 2023 - 2028

Elucidating the Molecular Basis of Cellular Metal Stress by using Mass Spectrometry-Based Proteomic Methods

ResearchCo-Principal Investigator · Awarded by National Institute of General Medical Sciences · 2022 - 2026

MRI: Acquisition of a Microscale Thermophoresis System

EquipmentMajor User · Awarded by National Science Foundation · 2022 - 2025

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Education, Training & Certifications


University of Wisconsin, Madison · 1994 Ph.D.
Davidson College · 1989 B.S.