Dean Madden studies the stereochemical 'secret handshakes' that enable molecules to recognize each other accurately and to form functional partnerships within the crowded environment of a cell. His early work helped to explain in atomic detail how the immune system can precisely detect and eliminate 'Trojan-horse' cells infected with viruses. He has also investigated the choreography of conformational changes that allow ion channel proteins to convert neurotransmitter signals into electrical impulses within the brain. Since coming to Dartmouth, he has developed a strong interest in the molecular interactions that control the activity and regulate the lifetime of CFTR, the ion channel mutated in patients with cystic fibrosis. His discoveries have led to multiple patents. Dr. Madden currently serves as Vice Provost for Research and as a Professor in the Department of Biochemistry & Cell Biology, where he directs two NIH-funded research programs: the Dartmouth Cystic Fibrosis Research Center and the Institute for Biomolecular Targeting. He is also an enthusiastic teacher and mentor.