One Auburn professor is using many people's least favorite subject--chemistry--to find a cure for human diabetes.
Christopher Easley, professor of chemistry, is part of an interdisciplinary group of 28 Auburn professors with the central goal of curing diabetes in both humans and animals.
The Boshell Diabetes and Metabolic Research Program was established in 2003 to honor the late Buris R. Boshell, a 1947 Auburn graduate.
Easley, the only member of the group from the chemistry department, said his department helps the group by focusing on fundamental research. He works in a laboratory with four graduate students and a post-doctoral student.
"We focus on methods to detect hormones and the secretions that may cause diabetes," Easley said. "This helps us understand the biology better."
The program is based in the College of Veterinary Sciences.
The program's mission found on its website reads, "The Boshell Diabetes and Metabolic Research Program at Auburn University is dedicated to improving the lives of all people with diabetes through world-class basic science investigation into the etiology and treatment of diabetes and other metabolic diseases."
Easley said the existence of the program attracted him to Auburn in 2008.
"Also, the quality of research at Auburn University is good and the younger faculty is impressive," he said. "Plus, I just love the area and the town."
The 31-year-old went to high school in McComb, Miss., and has attended Mississippi State, the University of Virginia and Vanderbilt University.
Easley teaches analytical chemistry this semester and will be teaching freshman-level chemistry in the fall.
Easley said he likes to strike a balance between being strict and laid-back.
"I understand what it's like to be a student," he said, "but I also know that students need to know this material. I have to cover the material, and I'm not going to be lenient on someone who is not putting in an effort."
Aaron Owens, senior in laboratory technology, is currently a student in Easley's analytical chemistry class. Owens said Easley is relaxed, straightforward and personal.
"He keeps the material so it's neither above our heads nor dumbed down," Owens said.
Owens said Easley's tests exemplify how straightforward he is.
"He gives us plenty of practice problems, so when he gives a test, you know what to expect," Owens said. "You aren't sitting there saying, 'Oh my God, what is this?' He's much more focused on concepts than specifics, and I really like that about him."
Easley has a 4-year-old son and a 2-year-old daughter who keep him busy when he isn't at work. He has pictures of them and drawings they've made taped to a cabinet by his desk.
"In my spare time, I'm usually running around with them," Easley said. "They like to go outside and play, and I love spending time with them there."
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