Robert D. Barrows

Robert D. Barrows is an Assistant Professor of Chemistry at Fairleigh Dickinson University (FDU) within the Becton College. He is affiliated with the Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry, and Physics and teaches courses in Organic Chemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, and Polymer Chemistry. Dr. Barrows focuses on the design and synthesis of drug-like compounds with predicted biological activity, emphasizing the development of novel bioisosteres to improve therapeutic potency and metabolism.

• Education:
  • BS, Montclair State University (research on MtIGP synthase substrates)
  • PhD, Rutgers University, New Brunswick (under Prof. Spencer Knapp)

His research bridges synthetic organic chemistry and medicinal chemistry, targeting diseases like malaria and cancer. At FDU, he collaborates with undergraduate mentees to explore chemical solutions for problematic structural motifs in drug design. Dr. Barrows conducted postdoctoral research at Harvard University under Prof. Matthew Shair, focusing on enzymatic oncology inhibitors.

For a complete list of publications, visit his ORCID profile. Dr. Barrows maintains an active research program while engaging in teaching and undergraduate mentorship.

Contact: r.barrows@fdu.edu | Phone: 973-443-8762