Gina MacDonald

Gina MacDonald is a Professor in Biophysics and Biochemistry at James Madison University (JMU), where she has been affiliated since 1996. She works within the Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry.

• Education: PhD in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biophysics (1994) from University of Minnesota; BS in Biophysics (1989) from University of Connecticut

Her research focuses on understanding how environmental factors like buffers, metals, and salts influence protein structure, solvation, and aggregation. Her work has implications for neurological diseases involving abnormal protein unfolding and utilizes spectroscopic techniques such as infrared, circular dichroism, and fluorescence.

Recent publications highlight her work on Hofmeister ion effects in protein systems and inclusive education practices in chemistry laboratories. She has contributed to the field through both fundamental biophysical studies and educational outreach initiatives.