Don Elmore

Don Elmore is the Denise Kellen '68 Chair in the Health Sciences and Professor of Chemistry at Wellesley College. He conducts interdisciplinary research combining experimental and computational approaches to study membrane proteins, particularly histone-derived antimicrobial peptides (HDAPs), and their interactions with lipid membranes. His work spans biophysical characterization, molecular dynamics simulations, and pedagogical innovation in biochemistry education.

• Education: B.A. from Grinnell College, Ph.D. from California Institute of Technology

Elmore's research focuses on elucidating the molecular mechanisms of HDAPs, designing novel peptides through hybridization and computational modeling, and investigating effects of macromolecular crowding on antimicrobial activity. His publications demonstrate sustained exploration of structure-function relationships, synergy with antibiotics, and computational prediction of peptide behavior. Collaborations with Louise Darling (Biological Sciences), Mala Radhakrishnan (Chemistry), and Joshua Maurer (Benét Laboratories) highlight his interdisciplinary approach.

As an educator, he developed a computational chemistry course, integrated molecular dynamics into curricula, and pioneered the course Can Biochemistry Address Societal Problems for Wellesley's Calderwood Program in Public Writing. He has mentored over 95 undergraduate researchers since 2004, with many student co-authors on publications. His service roles include chairing the Chemistry Department (2019-2023), the Committee on Admissions and Financial Aid, and the Laboratory Safety Committee.

• Scientific Awards:
  • Henry Dreyfus Teacher-Scholar Award (2011)
  • Pinanski Prize in Teaching (2009)

Elmore's research has been funded by the National Institutes of Health, National Science Foundation, and Research Corporation. He has served as Principal Investigator for three cycles of the Wellesley College Beckman Scholars Program and contributes to the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Education editorial board.