Ronald Raines smiles in his office.

Ron Raines wins AstraZeneca Protein and Peptide Science Award

Categories: Awards, Faculty

Professor of chemistry recognized for his research and contributions to the field of peptide and protein science.

Ronald T. Raines, the Roger and Georges Firmenich Professor of Natural Products Chemistry, has been awarded the 2025 AstraZeneca Protein and Peptide Science Award by the Royal Society of Chemistry.

Raines (Sc.B. ‘80) receives this award for his outstanding achievements in protein and peptide science, characterized by both detailed understanding of the physical-organic and molecular factors and the translation of fundamental research to applications that are beneficial for humanity.

Over the past 25 years, Raines’ lab has been studying collagen and how its structure enables its function. In recent research findings, Raines was the senior author on a study that offers an explanation for how collagen from dinosaur fossils, a protein found in bones and connective tissue, can survive much longer—195 million years longer, in fact—than the normal half-life of the peptide bond that holds proteins together, which is about 500 years. The research team found that a special atomic-level interaction defends collagen from attack by water molecules. This barricade prevents water from breaking the peptide bonds through a process called hydrolysis.

This award recognizes exceptional contributions to the field of peptide and protein science, celebrating researchers who advance scientific innovation and push the boundaries of discovery. The broad spectrum of Raines’ research is fitting for this award and spans from quantum chemical analysis of structural parameters of peptides and proteins, development of new synthetic methods, establishment of collagen-mimetic peptides and other biocompatible materials to significant applications in cancer research and wound healing, including advancing a modified human enzyme through a Phase 1 clinical trial against solid tumors.

The Royal Society of Chemistry is a renowned charitable organization whose Royal Charter was granted in 1980 for the general advancement of chemical science, developing its applications, and disseminating chemical knowledge. The organization serves as a catalyst for connecting chemical scientists with each other and society for advancing science in service of improving public health, environment, and daily life.

The award will be officially presented at the Early Career Researcher Meeting taking place at the University of Birmingham on July 10, 2025 where Professor Raines will be the keynote speaker. For more information and to register to attend please see here.