Dr. Martin Burke

Professor

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Biography

Martin D. Burke is a Ving Lee Professor of Chemical Innovation at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and the Founding Director of the Molecule Maker Lab. He holds a B.A. in Chemistry from Johns Hopkins University, an M.D. from the Harvard-MIT Health Sciences Technology Program, and a Ph.D. in Chemistry from Harvard University. Burke has been instrumental in launching the Carle Illinois College of Medicine, serving as the inaugural Associate Dean for Research. He pioneered blocc chemistry, which involves iterative carbon-carbon bond formation using MIDA/TIDA boronates that facilitate friendly automation and accessibility to non-specialists. His lab's innovations in blocc chemistry have produced significant advancements such as molecular prosthetics and organic lasers. Burke's contributions have enabled over 1,000 publications and 300 patent applications globally. He co-founded five biotech companies, leading to the advancement of seven new drug candidates into clinical trials. His work has garnered numerous honors, including membership in the National Academy of Medicine and recognition as a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science. He continues to focus on democratizing molecular innovation and enhancing accessibility in organic synthesis through advanced methodologies and educational outreach.

Research Interests

Experience

Professor

2010-08-01 — Present

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign • Urbana, IL

Conducts research and teaches in the Department of Chemistry.

Awards

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Member, National Academy Medicine

2022-01-01
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Fellow, American Association Advancement Science

2022-01-01
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Elias J. Corey Award

2013-01-01
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Arthur C. Cope Scholar Award

2011-01-01
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Kavli Foundation Emerging Leader Chemistry Award

2013-01-01
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Thieme–IUPAC Prize

2014-01-01
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Mukaiyama Award

2020-01-01
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Howard Hughes Medical Institute Early Career Scientist

2009-01-01

Requirements for University of Illinois

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
IELTS
Listening
Required:7
Reading
Required:7
Writing
Required:7
Speaking
Required:7
Overall
Required:7.5
TOEFL
Listening
Required:17
Reading
Required:19
Writing
Required:21
Speaking
Required:20
Total
Required:103
GRE General
Prerequisites
Mathematical background Linear Algebra Calculus
Application Checklist
  • Online application
  • Unofficial transcripts
  • 3 Letters of Recommendation
  • Academic Statement of Purpose
  • Resume/CV
Specialization Notes

GRE is optional for admission to all graduate programs in Statistics. Full status admission requires higher language scores than limited status.