KA YEE C. LEE

Research interests: Dr. Lee carries out x-ray and neutron scattering measurements on lung surfactant, a complex mixture of lipids and proteins that assists the breathing process to obtain structural information on lipid/lipid, lipid/protein and lipid/polymer organizations of these 2D lipid systems. Her work is designed to better understand the molecular causes behind the proper functioning of the lung and to help explain how specific chemical or physical alterations in lung surfactant might lead to Respiratory Distress Syndrome. Lee also studies beta amyloid, a plaque-forming substance implicated in the pathology of Alzheimer's disease.

Other projects include targeting selectivity of antimicrobial peptides, the use of polymers as membrane sealants, and the interactions between lipids and cholesterol in the cell membrane.

Current position: Professor of Chemistry, The University of Chicago. 

Term: January 2010 - March 2016.