Dr. Morris’sresearch interests involve the role of metal ion binding in oxidative DNA damage and the development of microfluidic devices for chemical analysis (lab-on-a-chip).
Research Opportunities
We believe that mentored hands-on research is essential for chemistry and biochemistry students. That’s why you’ll be in the lab early and often, with lots of individual attention from your professors. Meet our faculty and learn more about their areas of expertise and current projects below.
Dr. Mark Brandt, Biochemistry
Dr. Brandt studies the human estrogen receptor, a protein of great importance in both normal development and in breast cancer. He is also a driving force behind the Interdisciplinary Research Collaborative (IRC), a program that offers students the opportunity to perform paid full-time summer research.
Dr. Ross Weatherman, Biochemistry
Dr. Weatherman’s research involves making and testing new compounds to dissect the molecular mechanisms of action responsible for the actions of estrogens and antiestrogens in breast cancer and other tissues in the body.
Dr. Rebecca DeVasher, Green Chemistry
Dr. DeVasher has begun an active research program in green chemistry, developing new methods and technologies that reduce or eliminate the use of chemicals hazardous to human health and the environment.
Dr. Stephanie Poland, Inorganic Chemistry
Dr. Poland’s work centers on the synthesis and development of biodegradable plastics using transition metal catalysts. In particular, focus is given to the synthesis of poly (trimethylene carbonate), PTMC, and various derivative polycarbonates that have use in biomedical applications such as sutures and drug delivery devices.
Dr. Jason Pflueger, Organic Chemistry
Dr. Pflueger’s research involves the development and application of new reactions for organic synthesis. Current projects are focused on utilizing cobalt boride to achieve mild and selective functionalization reactions of nitriles.
Dr. Fumie Sunahori, Physical Chemistry
Dr. Sunahori's research interests involve reactive small species.
Dr. Alexander Kamasah, Analytical Chemistry
Dr. Kamasah's research intrests include electrochemistry.
Dr. Amy Lane, Biochemistry
Dr. Amy Lane's research interests include Microbial Natural Products, Elucidation and Genetic Engineering of Biosynthetic Pathways, Biosynthesis, and Drug Discovery.
Dr. Ross Weatherman
Department Head and Professor of Chemistry and Biochemistry Dr. Ross Weatherman has received the Board of Trustees Outstanding Scholar Award and was an American Cancer Society Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of California, San Francisco. He leads a team of high-achieving students in researching the role of estrogen in the development and treatment of breast cancer. Their work seeks to improve existing drugs, resulting in better treatments with fewer side effects. The value of his research has been recognized with grants totaling $2 million from the National Institutes of Health and the U.S. Army. Dr. Weatherman also has developed strong collaborations with the Indiana University School of Medicine and has authored more than 20 peer-reviewed research publications.
Contact Us
Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry
Moench Hall C205
5500 Wabash Avenue
Terre Haute, IN 47803
812-877-8166
Moench Hall C205
5500 Wabash Avenue
Terre Haute, IN 47803
812-877-8166