Donovan C. Haines

Donovan C. Haines serves as Professor and Chair of the Department of Chemistry at Sam Houston State University within the College of Science & Engineering Technology. His extensive academic career includes previous positions as Assistant Professor and Associate Professor at both the University of Texas at Dallas and Sam Houston State University, culminating in his current professorship and chairmanship since 2020.

Haines' research spans multiple interconnected fields focusing on the structure and mechanism of monooxygenase systems, particularly cytochrome P450 enzymes involved in metabolism of natural products, neurotransmitters, drugs, and hormones. His work has direct medical relevance to neurodegenerative diseases including ALS, Parkinson's, and Alzheimer's. Specific research areas include bacterial quorum sensing, forensic chemistry related to human decomposition, and lipid metabolism enzymes connected to immune function and skin disorders.

Analysis of his 15 most recent publications reveals a strong focus on cytochrome P450 enzymology, with significant work on bacterial quorum sensing mechanisms, forensic applications, and protein structure-function relationships. His research demonstrates consistent interdisciplinary collaboration across biochemistry, microbiology, and forensic science.

Haines maintains an active research program with publications spanning over two decades, with his most recent work expanding into aerospace medicine with research on remains containment in low-earth orbit. His scientific contributions demonstrate both depth in specialized enzymology and breadth across multiple application domains.

As an educator, Haines teaches across the chemistry curriculum from introductory courses to advanced biochemistry, demonstrating commitment to both undergraduate and graduate education. His laboratory employs diverse methodologies including organic synthesis, biochemistry, molecular biology, and biophysics to study enzyme mechanisms.