Justin Donato

Justin Donato is a Professor in the Department of Chemistry at the University of St. Thomas, affiliated with the College of Arts and Sciences. His research focuses on applying functional metagenomics to study bacterial chemical processes, particularly antibiotic resistance mechanisms. The Donato Lab explores how bacteria survive in diverse habitats, with projects targeting novel resistance gene discovery and strategies for antibiotic management. Dr. Donato teaches courses such as CHEM 440 (Biochemistry I/Lab) and has mentored student research through workshops and lab activities. His work bridges environmental microbiology, biochemistry, and drug discovery, emphasizing the role of bacteria in global challenges like antibiotic resistance and sustainability.

Education details are not explicitly provided in the text, but his professional activities include teaching, research leadership, and collaboration with students on metagenomic studies. Research highlights include identifying resistance genes in soil and human-associated bacteria, as well as investigating triclosan's impact on bacterial resistance. He has contributed to both scientific publications and educational initiatives, such as integrating metagenomics into undergraduate labs.

Grants and advising: Mentored students in a 2011 summer workshop producing significant genomic data. No explicit grant details are provided, but his research is funded through standard academic channels. The Donato Lab collaborates on projects like optimizing bacterial gene expression and analyzing wastewater microbiota.