After completion of the Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry at Michigan State University, Dr. Waner spent a year teaching at Spring Hill College before returning to JCU in August 1999. His research interests have ranged from the study of surface chemistry and thin films to protein structure and keto-enol tautomerism. The primary area of study is aimed at gaining a better understanding of the structural stability and heterogeneity of streptavidin upon binding of biotin or surfactants. The biotin-streptavidin system plays an important tool in many biochemical assays and techniques. Another of his research interests involves the kinetics of deuterium exchange reactions with β-diketones and β-ketoesters undergoing keto-enol tautomerism. Another of his interests is K-12 science education, which has involved outreach programs for students, professional development programs for teachers and work on programs and coursework for pre- and in-service teachers. Dr. Waner has taught courses in General and Physical Chemistry, as well as courses for pre- and in-service elementary and middle grades teachers.