Generations of Chemistry

Professor of Chemistry Steven D. Townsend’s specialty is at the intersection of synthetic chemistry and biology. He studies how sugar compounds in human breast milk can be used to improve everything from the hydrodynamics of big ships to reducing chemotherapy-induced nausea and more.

In the context of the community, I feel obligated to make sure we’re doing science that they comprehend, and, ultimately, if we’re successful, it should be something that can help them.
Steven D. Townsend
Stevenson Chair in chemistry and professor of pathology, microbiology and immunology

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Steve Townsend

Stevenson Chair, professor of chemistry and professor of pathology, microbiology and immunology

Steven Townsend is Stevenson Chair and professor of chemistry. He is also professor of pathology, microbiology and immunology. His research focuses on developing new tools to broaden our fundamental understanding of chemistry while addressing problems significant to human health. In particular, his lab focuses on studying and discovering innovative uses for the chemical compounds found within human breast milk.

Learn more about Steven
The Townsend Chemistry Lab

Steve Townsend: Professor, Chemist, Mentor

Birth of an Idea: Steven Townsend’s pathbreaking molecular research into human milk

Vanderbilt chemist wins Sloan Research Fellowship

New faculty: Townsend studies the glycobiology of human milk

Townsend’s Research in the News

The Wall Street Journal: The ‘Arms Race’ to Build a Better Baby Formula (October 31, 2019)

Chemical & Engineering News: Podcast: Black chemists discuss strategies for dismantling systemic racism in science (September 23, 2020)

The Scientist: In Search of the Best Milk Recipe for Preemies’ Gut Bacteria (August 22, 2002)

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