James Lawrence

James Lawrence serves as Professor in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point since joining in 2006, following research work as a senior fellow at the Mayo Foundation. He currently advises the Biochemistry Club and emphasizes undergraduate research opportunities, stating he has "never met a group of people more dedicated to student success" than his department colleagues.

His educational background includes:

• Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from Purdue University
• B.S. in Chemistry from Bemidji State University

Professor Lawrence's research centers on membrane biochemistry, particularly NADH oxidase systems in plasma membranes and Golgi apparatus. His work explores enzyme regulation in normal rat liver versus hepatoma cells, investigating how growth factors, hormones, and guanine nucleotides modulate membrane activities. This research bridges fundamental biochemistry with potential cancer applications through comparative studies of healthy and cancerous tissue.

His publication history, though concentrated in the early 1990s, reveals consistent focus on membrane dynamics and enzyme function. The studies demonstrate methodological rigor in cell-free systems while establishing foundational knowledge about NADH oxidase behavior across different biological contexts, particularly highlighting alterations in cancerous membranes.

Key recognitions include:

• National Science Foundation Grant (2017) for building educational networks between community colleges and four-year institutions
• National Institute of Health R15 Award (2008)

As faculty advisor for the Biochemistry Club, he guides student research initiatives while securing external funding to support undergraduate opportunities. His department provides structured research experiences for dozens of students annually, reflecting his commitment to hands-on scientific training. Professional service includes leadership in biochemistry education through society fellowships.

Current engagement includes an Educational fellowship with the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (2018-present), following a decade as Regional Director for their Student Chapters (2008-2018), demonstrating sustained commitment to academic community building.