Doug Swartz

Dr. Doug Swartz is an Associate Professor of Natural Sciences and Director of the Rhodes Institute for Undergraduate Research at Lubbock Christian University. He holds a Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (2012) and dual B.S. degrees in Biochemistry and Microbiology from Oklahoma State University (2006). His research focuses on molecular mechanisms of P-glycoprotein, a multidrug resistance-associated protein, and undergraduate research mentorship. Dr. Swartz has published extensively in biochemistry, structural biology, and education-focused journals. He leads collaborative projects within the Department of Natural Sciences and has mentored numerous undergraduate researchers.

Educations:

• Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, 2012
• B.S. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Oklahoma State University, 2006
• B.S. in Microbiology, Oklahoma State University, 2006

Research Interests: Dr. Swartz’s work combines molecular biology and biochemistry to study ABC transporter proteins, particularly P-glycoprotein’s role in multidrug resistance. He also advocates for undergraduate research mentorship in STEM fields, emphasizing hands-on experiential learning. His lab explores protein engineering, conformational dynamics, and drug resistance mechanisms using techniques like directed evolution and thermal unfolding assays.

Publications: His articles span topics from P-glycoprotein structure-function relationships to best practices in undergraduate research mentoring. Key themes include protein engineering strategies, conformational changes during ATP hydrolysis, and optimizing recombinant protein production systems.

Grants & Mentorship: He transitioned from a postdoctoral fellowship funded by the American Heart Association to full-time faculty at LCU in 2015. Dr. Swartz mentors students in independent and collaborative projects, fostering interdisciplinary research opportunities.

Labs & Teams: His work is conducted within the Department of Natural Sciences at LCU and involves collaborations with faculty at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center and other institutions.