Derda research group bridges chemistry, biology and information to study fundamental phenomena that can be broadly defined as “molecular complexity”. We build technologies that combine organic synthesis and genetically-encoded libraries, deep-sequencing and information management to attack problems in drug discovery, biology and chemistry. The topics we study aim to improve the fundamental understanding of molecular recognition (receptor ligand interaction, catalysis, reactivity). Building on this knowledge, we aim to study the emergence of new function driven by molecular recognition in complex systems (directed evolution and selection, reproducibility of discovery, stability and divergence of discovery trajectories, learning and decision-making processes). For our publications see https://spaces.facsci.ualberta.ca/derda/publications/.

48Hour Discovery is Canadian Biotechnology company started in Feb 2017 in Edmonton, AB, Canada. Platform technology of 48HD, built on genetically-encoded library technology developed by Derda Group, rapidly searches billion-scale libraries to access ligands for diverse molecular targets. We build information-centric discovery pipeline that offers unprecedented turnaround time and a manageable cost. Our pipeline supports early lead discovery in drug development by providing rapid access to unique chemically-modified peptide scaffolds with value added properties (stability, affinity, bioavailability). For more information see: http://www.48hourdiscovery.com/