Eastern Oregon University > Academics > EOU Chemistry Professor Colin Andrew to Unveil Multidisciplinary Research on Heme Proteins at Upcoming Colloquium

EOU Chemistry Professor Colin Andrew to Unveil Multidisciplinary Research on Heme Proteins at Upcoming Colloquium

EOU Chemistry Professor Colin Andrew to Unveil Multidisciplinary Research on Heme Proteins at Upcoming Colloquium

LA GRANDE, Ore. – Colin Andrew, Ph.D., Professor of Chemistry, at Eastern Oregon University will present for the next EOU Colloquium on Thursday, May 9, from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. in Ackerman Hall. 

“What excites me about my research is that it’s truly multidisciplinary,” Dr. Andrew explains. “It has led to rewarding collaborations with scientists from around the world. I particularly enjoy involving EOU students in the various research activities.”

EOU student Jeremy Bard, left, manipulates protein samples inside an airtight “glove box.” Fellow student Stone Safaie, right, takes notes while Colin Andrew, professor of chemistry, observes. The National Science Foundation is funding their ongoing research. (EOU file photo)

This Colloquium will cover the research conducted by Dr. Andrew and his team, including dedicated undergraduate students from EOU and collaborating scientists from various institutions.

Dr. Andrew’s research explores the molecular structures and functions of bacterial heme proteins, which are similar to hemoglobin—the protein that gives blood its red color and transports oxygen. His focus is on understanding how these heme proteins interact with gas and other small molecules, particularly within the biological nitrogen cycle. The vivid colors of these proteins allow for their activities to be tracked by observing changes when they are exposed to visible light. A primary objective of his research is to determine how the structural configuration of these proteins influences their chemical reactions. 

Dr. Andrew’s research team includes undergraduate students from EOU and collaborators from various institutions. In his presentation, Dr. Andrew will summarize the key findings of his research, highlighting the progress made during his recent sabbatical.

“I benefited tremendously from the research experiences I had as an undergraduate in

England,” Dr. Andrew said. “In fact, it was the main reason I decided to pursue a PhD and then continue into academia. Providing research opportunities for students at EOU is something I particularly enjoy”.