Robert E. Collins

Robert E. Collins is an Associate Professor in the Department of Chemistry and Physical Sciences at Quinnipiac University. With expertise in structural biology and biochemistry, he focuses on metal-dependent enzymes, particularly those with applications in biofuels and sustainable industrial processes.

• Education:
  • PhD in Biochemistry, Cell and Developmental Biology, Emory University
  • Jane Coffin Childs Postdoctoral Fellow, Yale University

Dr. Collins' research centers on the discovery, purification, and atomic-level characterization of enzymes utilizing transition metals like copper. His lab employs bioinformatics, recombinant DNA technology, and X-ray crystallography to study novel metal-containing enzymes, especially those capable of degrading lignin—a key barrier in biofuel production—and enabling greener industrial solutions.

His scholarly work spans structural analysis of laccase enzymes, metalloprotein engineering, and enzymatic remediation. Key subfields include lignin degradation, redox catalysis, and biotechnological applications of bacterial enzymes.

• Scientific Awards:
  • Jane Coffin Childs Postdoctoral Fellowship

Dr. Collins teaches Biochemistry I and II (CHE 315 & CHE 316) and mentors students in projects involving enzyme discovery, protein expression, and spectrophotometric assays. His lab fosters interdisciplinary research at the intersection of biochemistry and sustainability.