David K. Pitts

David K. Pitts is an Associate Professor in the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences at Wayne State University's Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences, where he has served since 1990. He currently holds key administrative roles including Chair of the Assessment Committee (2018-Present), Director of Curriculum (2016-Present), and Research Scholars Program Coordinator (2016-Present).

His educational background includes:

• Bachelor of Science in Psychology & Biology from Michigan State University (1975)
• Master of Science in Biology from Wayne State University (1977)
• Doctor of Philosophy in Pharmacology from Wayne State University (1985)

Dr. Pitts' research centers on environmental toxicology and neurotoxicology, with critical focus on contaminants of emerging concern (CECs) and endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in water systems. His work investigates complex chemical mixtures at low concentrations (ng/L) from pharmaceuticals, pesticides, and industrial waste, examining their impact on aquatic organisms like Daphnia and human health through innovative bioassay development. This research addresses global threats to water security amid climate change and biodiversity collapse.

His scientific contributions have earned significant recognition:

• National Research Service Award (NIMH, 1988)
• NIMH First Award (1990)
• Wayne State Career Development Chair (1997)
• Multiple Teaching Awards (2007-2018) including three consecutive P3 Pharmacy Class Teacher of the Year honors

As Research Scholars Program Coordinator, Dr. Pitts mentors student researchers while teaching core courses including Autonomic Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Waste Management. His laboratory focuses on neurotransmitter regulation in aquatic organisms to decode behavioral and physiological responses to contaminants, directly informing environmental risk assessment protocols.