FASEB Fellows for the Future

Erome Daniel Hankore, PhD

Erome Daniel Hankore is a Pathway to Faculty fellow at Wayne State University. She earned her doctorate in chemistry at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, studying under professor Jiantao Guo. Her doctoral research focused on pioneering genetic code expansion for quadruplet codon decoding and advancing biofuel production through the characterization of novel carboxylic acid reductases. Following her doctorate, Hankore joined the University of Kentucky’s College of Pharmacy for her postdoctoral work. Here, she collaborated with professors Steven Van Lanen and Jon Thorson to elucidate the biosynthesis of enediynes. She also worked with Joe Chappell, PhD, and Chang-Guo Zhan, PhD, on investigating triterpene synthases, which are vital for producing structurally diverse triterpenes with significant adjuvant properties. 

During her postdoctoral tenure, Hankore emerged as a leader within the postdoctoral community, significantly contributing to its development and cohesion. She served as the postdoctorate liaison to the Graduate Student Congress and the Society for Postdoctoral Scholars (SOPS) president from 2021-2022. In her presidency, she was instrumental in launching a book club, developing a new website, and creating networking and collaborative research opportunities at the University of Kentucky. 

Separately, during her doctorate studies, Hankore demonstrated her leadership in the classroom as an educator in organic chemistry, where she consistently received high evaluations for her ability to transfer information and technical skills to students. This experience underscores her dedication to education and mentorship, which continues to be a cornerstone of her professional identity. Hankore has also been active in community engagement. She was featured at the 2021 Bost Health Policy Forum in Kentucky, where she lectured on “Vaccine Research and Approval.” Additionally, she conducted a notable interview with Kentucky State Representative Charles Booker at a campus-wide civic engagement event. Hankore joined Wayne State University’s chemistry department in July 2024 as a Pathway to Faculty fellow. Her research will focus on chemical biology and biocatalysis, reflecting the depth and breadth of her academic training. 

Outside the lab, Hankore enjoys hiking, listening to music, astronomy, reading, and spending time with family and friends.

FASEB Member Society: Association of Biomolecular Resource Facilities