About
Dan Smith serves as Professor of Chemistry and Department Chair at Goshen College, with research spanning genetics, biochemistry, and organometallic chemistry. His work bridges molecular biology and synthetic chemistry through two primary projects.
His educational foundation includes a B.S. from Elizabethtown College (1986), M.S. from Bucknell University (1988), and Ph.D. from Iowa State University (1992). As an active member of the American Chemical Society, he maintains rigorous laboratory standards for both research domains.
Smith's pigeon genetics research focuses on DNA sequencing to identify genes controlling feather color phenotypes, utilizing specialized protocols for isolating DNA, RNA, and mRNA from melanocytes. His organometallic work develops osmium porphyrin complexes with alkyl/alkylidene moieties for catalytic applications, building on decades of porphyrin chemistry expertise. This dual focus demonstrates exceptional interdisciplinary integration between zoological genetics and inorganic synthesis.
Publications from 1989-2016 reveal consistent contributions across both fields, with recent work emphasizing MC1R gene mutations in pigeons and osmium-mediated cyclopropanation reactions. His research methodology combines molecular biology techniques with advanced organometallic synthesis, creating unique cross-disciplinary insights.
Smith actively presents findings at professional venues including the Indiana Academy of Science and Louisville National Pigeon Show, while mentoring students through hands-on laboratory research in both project areas. His departmental leadership supports comprehensive facilities for genetic analysis and synthetic chemistry.
