Bunick Lab

Christopher Bunick, MD, PhD, is an associate professor of dermatology performing dermatologic research studying the three-dimensional structures of skin-related proteins using primarily x-ray crystallography and cryo-electron microscopy. Dr. Bunick has more than 25 years of experience in the field of structural biology. He leads a structural biology research program in the dermatology field, with a specific niche: “atomic resolution dermatology.” Dr. Bunick’s research focuses on determining the atomic resolution structures of proteins, protein complexes, and drug-ligand complexes that are essential to formation of a functional human skin barrier or the action of a precision medicine therapy. He uses x-ray crystallography and cryo-electron microscopy to determine both the high resolution, three-dimensional structures of proteins important to both normal and diseased skin, and the mechanism of action of how dermatology drugs bind their molecular target. Knowing the structure of various skin proteins and drugs enables a better understanding of how a protein or therapeutic functions in normal and diseased skin states. Ultimately, it may lead to the development of novel therapies and/or improved patient care. In addition to wet lab/basic science research, Dr. Bunick leads clinical trial investigations at the Yale Center for Clinical Investigation to evaluate cutting-edge therapies and their safety and effectiveness in patients.

Dr. Bunick's lab is committed to providing a highly intellectual and fun environment to develop the research skills necessary to succeed in life, whether in academia, industry, or elsewhere. We teach students the key processes used in our research, including protein production and purification, biochemical assays, structure determination techniques, and clinical/translational thinking. Dr. Bunick is a faculty member in the Yale Program in Translational Biomedicine, and participates in the BBS Track: Translational Molecular Medicine, Pharmacology, and Physiology (TMMPP). Those interested in performing research in the lab should reach out to Dr. Bunick.