Dr. Bryan Knuckley, professor and chair of the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at the University of North Florida (UNF), has been named the recipient of the university’s 2025 Distinguished Professor Award.
The award, which is based on peer nominations, recognizes academic achievement as well as dedication to mentorship, research, and leadership.
“Personally, this honor means the world to me, and it is satisfying to know that all the dedication and effort I have put in over the years resulted in this recognition,” said Knuckley. “It signifies that my colleagues believe I’ve made a meaningful impact at UNF, which I deeply appreciate.”
Knuckley’s work includes significant contributions to scientific research at both local and national levels. In 2020, he collaborated with Dr. Corey Causey, associate professor of chemistry and biochemistry at UNF, and Dr. Fatima Rehman, associate lecturer in biology at UNF, to develop a compound capable of selectively targeting prostate and breast cancer cells while sparing healthy cells.
The team was awarded a U.S. patent for their discovery in 2024. They also received a second patent earlier this summer protecting the compound’s chemical structure that mimics natural proteins in the body.
“This breakthrough has been incredibly rewarding,” said Knuckley. “Both Dr. Causey and Dr. Rehman deserve a lot of credit for this work as it wouldn’t have been possible without both of them.”
Knuckley has spent more than twenty years in his field—including thirteen years at UNF—mentoring many undergraduate students who have gone on to further study or careers in research.
He attributes much of his professional growth to his graduate advisor from the University of South Carolina.
“One of the most pivotal decisions in my career was selecting Dr. Paul Thompson as my graduate advisor,” Knuckley said. “His mentorship has been instrumental to my growth, and I attribute much of my success to his guidance and support.”
As department chair, Knuckley has encouraged interdisciplinary collaboration within his department. He emphasizes curiosity as essential for scientists: “For scientists, curiosity comes naturally as we are always asking questions and seeking answers through experimentation,” Knuckley said. “Beyond that, impactful research requires the right environment and resources. Focus first on identifying the main issue and then working collaboratively to create innovative solutions. Once you identify a creative solution, you can advocate effectively for the resources.”
