Douglas Walker
Douglas Walker
Hi, my name is Douglas, or Doug, either works for me. I’m from Pocatello, Idaho where I completed my undergraduate degree in Chemistry with a minor emphasis in Mathematics at Idaho State University. While at ISU, I researched photovoltaic nanoparticles; focused on tailoring their growth and measuring their effect on biological systems. I attended Rice University in Houston, Texas for graduate school. I worked with Jeffrey Hartgerink, studying links between sequence and stability in collagen peptide triple-helices. I enjoyed the opportunity to pair experiment with computation and created multiple algorithms, based on experimental data, which mathematically predict the stability of collagen triple-helices based on their sequence. During this time, I developed a stronger interest in and excitement for NMR. Now, at Oregon State University, working with Elisar Barbar, I am applying my interests in mathematics and NMR to understanding the energetics of multi-valent proteins.
When I’m not in the lab, I’m likely with my wife and we might be hiking, biking, playing video games, or maybe rock climbing! I am also a big fan of a good story whether in a book, video game, or other medium. I’m avid about scientific communication and am continually practicing to improve this skill.