Education
B.S., Chemistry
Bowling Green State University
Ph.D., Analytical Chemistry
University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Ellen Hondrogiannis, Ph.D.
Professor
Contact Info
Professional Experience
Dr. Ellen Hondrogiannis is a Professor of Chemistry & Forensic Science at Towson University, where she has been a faculty member since 2007. She earned her Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry from the University of Tennessee then served for eight years as an officer in the U.S. Army Medical Service Corps. During that time, she worked in several federal research laboratories in roles spanning analytical research, method development, and scientific leadership. She is the Director of the Forensic Science Master's in Science (MS) Program and the Associate Director for the Forensic Chemistry Undergraduate Program at Towson University.
At Towson University, Dr. Hondrogiannis helped develop and expand the Trace Evidence track in both the undergraduate and graduate forensic science programs. These efforts have contributed to the continued growth and national recognition of the programs, including maintaining FEPAC accreditation. She oversees curriculum development and assessment for the trace track in the Master of Science and Forensic Chemistry Undergratuate Programs working closely with faculty, alumni, the Forensic Science Academic Advisory Board, and practicing forensic scientists to ensure the curriculum remains aligned with the evolving needs of the profession. She has also collaborated with colleagues to expand students' hands-on experience with analytical instrumentation, emphasizing both foundational principles and instrument maintenance and troubleshooting to better prepare graduates for careers in forensic laboratories.
Dr. Hondrogiannis received Towson University's Excellence in Teaching Award in 2019 and was the university's nominee for the University System of Maryland Board of Regents Faculty Award for Excellence in Teaching. She is passionate about student success and enjoys mentoring students while continually improving the educational experience to meet the needs of future forensic scientists.
Dr. Hondrogiannis has mentored more than 125 MS in Forensic Science and undergraduate researchers. Her students have presented over 50 research projects at regional and national scientific conferences and have co-authored 18 peer-reviewed publications in forensic analytical chemistry. Many of her graduates have gone on to successful careers in trace evidence, controlled substances, toxicology, and other forensic disciplines in federal, state, and local laboratories.
Her research focuses on the development and application of analytical techniques for forensic science, with focus on trace evidence analysis, gunshot residue, ignitable liquid analysis, and forensic attribution. She actively collaborates with federal, state, and local forensic laboratories and values partnerships that enhance both research and student training. Throughout her career, she has remained committed to bringing together academic and forensic practitioners to provide students with meaningful educational experiences and to prepare the next generation of forensic scientists.
Dr. Hondrogiannis also sits on the board of directors of the Northeastern Maryland University Research Park.
Classes
Dr. Hondrogiannis teaches Chemistry of Dangerous Drugs, Forensic Analytical Methods, Seminar, and Research.