Last Update

November 9, 2009

BMB Lab Home

Welcome to the laboratory of Brian M. Baker in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at the University of Notre Dame. Our laboratory studies the principles of molecular recognition in the immune system using a variety of structural, biophysical, and molecular techniques. We aim to understand the mechanisms by which the immune system recognizes, distinguishes between, and cross-reacts with antigens. We are also studying the design and optimization of immunologically-based therapeutics for cancer and infectious disease.

Our work in the immune system builds on fundamental studies relating interaction thermodynamics and kinetics to macromolecular structures and dynamics. As such, we are firmly grounded in protein biophysics and structural biology. At the same time, we are guided by work in molecular and cellular immunology, performed both in our lab and by collaborators throughout the world.

Our work is funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIGMS), the National Science Foundation, the American Cancer Society, the Walther Cancer Institute, and the Indiana CTSI.


The lab is located in Stepan Hall of Chemistry and Biochemistry on the Notre Dame campus (map).

Laboratory rooms and phone numbers:

Main lab:         453 Stepan (574) 631-9775
Group room:       450 Stepan          -2601
Instrument room:  501 Stepan          -5320
BMB office:       451 Stepan          -9810
Fax:                                  -6652

Mailing address:

Baker Lab
Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry
251 Nieuwland Science Hall
University of Notre Dame
Notre Dame, IN  46556