Fidelis Manyanga

Fidelis Manyanga serves as an Associate Professor in the Department of Chemistry and Physics at Salem State University, teaching General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, and Biochemistry courses. He actively contributes to university governance through committees including Student Affairs and Pre-Health Professions Advisory, and serves as a Board Member for the Journal of Biophysical Chemistry and a National Science Foundation Grant Reviewer.

His educational background includes:

• Ph.D. Chemistry (Nucleic Acids and Protein Biophysics), Portland State University, Oregon, USA
• B.S. Chemistry (Major) & Biochemistry (Major)

Dr. Manyanga's research program centers on three interconnected areas: (1) thermodynamic characterization of macromolecular binding (proteins and nucleic acids) via Differential Scanning Calorimetry; (2) Human Serum Albumin (HSA) as a carrier for biological adducts and its role in disease biomarkers; and (3) synthesis of isatin derivatives for antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory applications. His work bridges fundamental biophysics with translational drug discovery and educational innovation.

Analysis of his 15 most recent publications (2015-2025) reveals a dual trajectory: biochemical investigations into HSA-drug interactions, DNA thermodynamics, and isatin-based therapeutics, complemented by scholarship in chemical education focusing on active learning tools like "Molecule of the Week" and online pedagogy. This interdisciplinary approach addresses both scientific discovery and pedagogical advancement.

Dr. Manyanga has not listed any major scientific awards in the provided materials.

He has mentored nine undergraduate researchers on projects spanning isatin synthesis, DNA calorimetry, and medication interactions. Funded research includes a Salem State University grant for DNA hybridization studies and participation in the Massachusetts STEM Retention Grant for innovative teaching methodologies.

His laboratory utilizes Differential Scanning Calorimetry to probe protein-nucleic acid interactions and develop diagnostic tools based on HSA thermodynamic profiles, while also exploring novel isatin derivatives for therapeutic applications.