Dr. Graham Chakafana is a protein biochemist whose research explores the structural and functional features of druggable proteins involved in infectious diseases. His lab integrates protein biochemistry, structural biology, and computational approaches to uncover vulnerabilities in pathogens such as Plasmodium falciparum (malaria), Trypanosoma brucei (sleeping sickness), Neisseria gonorrhoeae, and Chlamydia trachomatis. By targeting proteins that regulate energy balance, nucleotide homeostasis, and redox pathways, his work aims to inform the development of next-generation therapeutics to combat antimicrobial resistance. He has also recently been utilizing data science and genomics to investigate factors associated with cardiac disease in minority populations.

In addition to his research, Dr. Chakafana is deeply committed to training and mentoring the next generation of biomedical scientists. At Hampton University, a leading HBCU, he leads hands-on research programs that engage undergraduate students from diverse backgrounds in protein biochemistry, structural biology, and computational biology. His mentorship has enabled students to co-author publications, present at national conferences, and pursue advanced careers in biomedical sciences.

Dr. Chakafana earned his Ph.D. in Biochemistry from the University of Venda, South Africa, and completed postdoctoral research at the University of Cape Town and at Stanford University. He has held visiting research appointments at Princeton University through the Visiting Faculty Research Partnership program.