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2012-13 Undergraduate Index A-Z
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Chemistry [clear]
| Title | Offering | Standing | Credits | Credits | When | F | W | S | Su | Description | Preparatory | Faculty | Days | Multiple Standings | Start Quarters | Open Quarters |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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Peter Pessiki
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Course | FR–SRFreshmen - Senior | 2 | 02 | Evening | W 13Winter | Through a series of learning experiences, this course will relate general chemistry to everyday life in a manner suited for those with no science background. Learning experiences will focus on inorganic molecules, acids and bases, and energy. Each learning experience will consist of a mix of lectures, workshops, presentations, labs, and discussions. All students will be given the opportunity to make physical measurements, handle chemicals and glassware, perform chemical reactions, and learn how to put a calculator to use. | Peter Pessiki | Thu | Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR | Winter | Winter | ||||
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Peter Pessiki
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Course | FR–SRFreshmen - Senior | 2 | 02 | Evening | S 13Spring | Through a series of learning experiences, this course will relate organic chemistry to everyday life in a manner suited for those with no science background. The learning experience may consist of lectures, workshops and labs. All students will be given the opportunity to make and break chemical bonds, handle glassware and chemicals and perform chemical reactions. | Peter Pessiki | Thu | Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR | Spring | Spring | ||||
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Peter Pessiki
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Course | FR–SRFreshmen - Senior | 2 | 02 | Evening | S 13Spring | Through a series of learning experiences, this course will relate organic chemistry to everyday life in a manner suited for those with no science background. The learning experience may consist of lectures, workshops and labs. All students will be given the opportunity to make and break chemical bonds, handle glassware and chemicals and perform chemical reactions. | Peter Pessiki | Thu | Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR | Spring | Spring | ||||
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Paula Schofield and Lydia McKinstry
Signature Required:
Fall Winter
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Program | SO–SRSophomore - Senior | 16 | 16 | Day | F 12 Fall | W 13Winter | This upper-division chemistry program will develop and interrelate concepts in experimental (laboratory) organic chemistry and biochemistry. It will cover the chemistry material that is usually offered in Molecule to Organism. Throughout both quarters we will integrate topics in both subjects to gain an understanding of the structure-property relationship of synthetic and natural organic compounds. We will also examine the key chemical reactions of industrial processes as well as those reactions that are important to the metabolic processes of living systems.There will be a significant laboratory component--students can expect to spend at least a full day in lab each week, maintain laboratory notebooks, write formal laboratory reports and give formal presentations of their work. Students will work collaboratively on laboratory and library research projects incorporating the theories and techniques of chemical synthesis and instrumental methods of chemical analysis. All laboratory work and approximately one half of the non-lecture time will be spent working in collaborative problem-solving groups. We also hope to attend a chemistry conference.This is an intensive program. The subjects are complex, and the sophisticated understanding we expect to develop will require devoted attention and many hours of scheduled lab work each week. Each student will be expected to develop a sufficient basis of advanced conceptual knowledge and practical skills necessary for pursuing work in a chemistry-based discipline. | chemistry, biochemistry, industrial or pharmaceutical research, medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, naturopathy, optometry and pharmacy. | Paula Schofield Lydia McKinstry | Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR | Fall | Fall Winter | |||
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Rebecca Sunderman and Kabby Mitchell
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Program | FR–SRFreshmen - Senior | 16 | 16 | Day | F 12 Fall | In this program we will investigate the basic languages of dance and chemistry. We will explore properties in chemistry connected to movement (conductivity, molecular vibrations, energy, reactivity, and solubility) and study how chemicals both construct and move within the human body. Students will become in tune with their bodies through movement workshops and scientific studies of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and body chemistry. In teams students will construct choreography of chemical processes. Some time will also be spent unpacking issues of privilege, stereotypes, and accessibility in both the fields of dance and chemistry.We will explore these topics through seminar assignments, exams/quizzes, reflection writing, laboratory experiments, movement workshops, and a group choreography assignment. No previous experience in dance or chemistry is required. This program will be participating in the new academic statement initiative. | Rebecca Sunderman Kabby Mitchell | Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR | Fall | Fall | |||||
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Clarissa Dirks and Abir Biswas
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Program | FR–SOFreshmen - Sophomore | 16 | 16 | Day | F 12 Fall | W 13Winter | S 13Spring | Geologic changes throughout Earth's history have strongly influenced the evolution and development of all life on earth. This year-long interdisciplinary program in biology and geology will examine the development of our planet and the cycles and transformations of matter and energy in living and nonliving systems. Students will gain an understanding of biological and physical Earth processes on a variety of scales. We will study basic concepts in earth science such as geologic time, plate tectonics, earth materials, nutrient cycling, and climate change. Living systems will be studied on the molecular, cellular, organismal and ecosystem levels, emphasizing the strong connections between biological and geological processes.Fall quarter will introduce students to fundamental principles in geology and biology by studying early Earth history and evolution. In winter quarter, we will investigate systems that highlight how earth processes support life. In spring quarter, students will use this background to engage in projects. Field trips will be an integral part of this program, allowing students to experience the natural world using skills they learned. Each quarter, program activities will include: lectures, small group problem-solving workshops, laboratories, field trips and seminars. There will be opportunities for small groups of students to conduct hands-on scientific investigations, particularly in the field. Students will learn to describe their work through scientific writing and presentations.This program is designed for students who want to take their first year of college science using an interdisciplinary framework. It will be a rigorous program, requiring a serious commitment of time and effort. Overall, we expect students to end the program in the spring with a solid working knowledge of scientific and mathematical concepts, and with the ability to reason critically and solve problems. Students will also gain a strong appreciation of the interconnectedness of biological and physical systems, and an ability to apply this knowledge to complex problems.Boating down the Colorado River though the Grand Canyon while conducting field work is a great way to learn about geological and ecological processes. All students in the program will participate in field work though only a select few (approximately 14 students) will be able to participate in the Grand Canyon river trip. For the river trip, students will be selected through an application and interview process. The expense of this trip is often prohibitive ($1,700 plus airfare to and from Las Vegas); however, alternative less expensive options for independent projects will be available so that all students gain hands-on research experience in the field. | Clarissa Dirks Abir Biswas | Freshmen FR Sophomore SO | Fall | Fall Winter Spring | |||
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Andrew Brabban, Clyde Barlow and Kenneth Tabbutt
Signature Required:
Winter Spring
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Program | SO–SRSophomore - Senior | 16 | 16 | Day | F 12 Fall | W 13Winter | S 13Spring | "Beauty is in the eye of the beholder." For scientists, beauty may be at the scale of the landscape, the organism, or the atomic level. In order to describe a system, scientists are required to collect quantitative data. This is a rigorous program that will focus on investigations in geology and biology supported with analytical chemistry. Instrumental techniques and chemical analysis skills will be developed in an advanced laboratory. The expectation is that students will learn how to conduct accurate chemical, ecological and hydrogeological measurements in order to define baseline assessments of natural ecosystems and determine environmental function and/or contamination. Quantitative analysis, quality control procedures, research design and technical writing will be emphasized.During fall and winter quarters, topics in physical geology, geochemistry, microbiology, molecular biology, freshwater ecology, genetics, biochemistry, analytical chemistry, GIS, and instrumental methods of chemical analysis will be addressed. Students will participate in group projects studying aqueous chemistry, hydrology, and the roles of biological organisms in the nutrient cycling processes of local watersheds. Analytical procedures based on EPA, USGS and other guidelines will be utilized to measure major and trace anion and cation concentrations. Molecular methods and biochemical assays will complement more classical procedures in determining biodiversity and the role of specific organisms within an ecosystem. Computers and statistical methods will be used extensively for data analysis and simulation and GIS will be used as a tool to assess spatial data. The program will start with a two-week field trip to Yellowstone National Park that will introduce students to regional geology of the Columbia River Plateau, Snake River, Rocky Mountains and the Yellowstone Hotspot. Issues of water quality, hydrothermal systems, extremophilic organisms and ecosystem diversity will also be studied during the trip.Spring quarter will be devoted to extensive project work continuing from fall and winter. There will be a 5-day field trip to eastern Washington. Presentation of project results in both oral and written form will conclude the year. | geology, hydrology, chemistry, microbiology, molecular biology, biochemistry, ecology, chemical instrumentation, environmental analysis and environmental fieldwork. | Andrew Brabban Clyde Barlow Kenneth Tabbutt | Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR | Fall | Fall Winter Spring | ||
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Lydia McKinstry and Paula Schofield
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Program | FR–SRFreshmen - Senior | 16 | 16 | Day | S 13Spring | This one-quarter program will offer an intensive introduction to the concepts and methods of college-level general chemistry. We will use an organizing theme that is based on the cycles and transformations of matter and energy at a variety of scales in both living and nonliving systems. Use of quantitative methods will be emphasized in all areas of the program, gaining additional insights into these processes. Students will undertake assignments focused on interpreting and integrating all of the topics covered. Our work will emphasize critical thinking and quantitative reasoning, as well as the development of proficient writing and speaking skills.Program activities will include lectures, small-group problem-solving workshops, laboratories and field trips. Students can expect to spend at least a full day in lab each week, maintain laboratory notebooks, write formal laboratory reports and give formal presentations of their work. Group work will also include reading and discussion of topics of current or historical significance in chemistry. It will be a rigorous program, requiring a serious commitment of time and effort on the part of the student. Overall, we expect students to end the program with the ability to reason critically, solve problems, and have hands-on experience with general chemistry.This program provides the equivalent of of a year-long course in general chemistry and will give students the chemistry prerequisite needed to pursue upper division work in chemistry, biochemistry and environmental science. | Lydia McKinstry Paula Schofield | Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR | Spring | Spring | |||||
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Peter Pessiki
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Program | FR–SRFreshmen - Senior | 8 | 08 | Evening | F 12 Fall | W 13Winter | S 13Spring | This year-long program in general chemistry provides prerequisites for many studies in science, health, and medicine as well as basic laboratory science for students seeking a well-rounded liberal arts education.Emphasis in fall quarter will be placed on calculations involving conversions, molar quantities, and thermodynamics. Understanding atoms in terms of subatomic particles, chemical reactivity of inorganic compounds, and the gas laws will also be covered. We will end with an in-depth investigation of atomic structure and periodicity. In the laboratory, students will routinely utilize a variety of scientific glassware and equipment and be taught how to handle chemicals safely. Students will also learn to be observant of chemical changes and to make precise physical measurements. Relevant scientific literature is introduced and often used to retrieve needed physical data.Winter quarter will start with a thorough investigation of how atoms unite to form molecules with a focus on covalent bonding. Next we will focus on the role of intermolecular forces in liquids and solids. This will be followed by chemical kinetics and an in-depth investigation of equilibrium. We will end the quarter with an introduction to acid-base chemistry. Labs will include titrations, crystal growth, pH titrations, and absorption spectroscopy. An introduction to chemical instrumentation will be incorporated into lab exercises, and students will be required to utilize chemical drawing programs.Spring quarter will continue with acid-base chemistry, pH, and polyprotic acids. Next we will look at buffers and complex ion equilibria. We then will cover entropy and free energy followed by an introduction to electrochemistry and electrochemical cells. Our final few weeks will be spent investigating a wide range of topics including transition metals and the crystal field model, nuclear chemistry, and other selected topics. The lab portion of the class will include buffer making, electrochemical measurements, and the use of ion exchange columns. In addition, students will be expected to partake in the on-campus Science Carnival as well as attend a locally held science conference. | science, medicine | Peter Pessiki | Mon Wed | Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR | Fall | Fall Winter Spring | |
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Rebecca Sunderman
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Program | FR–SRFreshmen - Senior | 8 | 08 | Day | Su 13Summer Session I | We will begin the study of general chemistry by exploring the structure of the atom and the nature of the chemical bond and then proceed towards an understanding of molecular geometry. This will lead us to discussions of the periodic table, chemical reactions, stoichiometry, and properties of gases. Time permitting other topics such as thermochemistry and kinetics may be explored. Issues of chemistry and society will also be discussed and incooporated.In the laboratory we will work to develop the skills needed to be successful in a chemistry lab. In particular we will focus on measurements, solutions, and possibly some spectroscopy. | Rebecca Sunderman | Mon Tue Wed Thu | Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR | Summer | Summer | ||||
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Benjamin Simon, Rachel Hastings and Dharshi Bopegedera
Signature Required:
Winter Spring
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Program | FR–SRFreshmen - Senior | 16 | 16 | Day | F 12 Fall | W 13Winter | S 13Spring | This program is a rigorous introduction to important knowledge and skills students need to continue in the natural sciences and environmental sciences. We will cover key concepts in general chemistry, general biology, and pre-calculus mathematics. Students who have completed pre-calculus will have the option of pursuing work in introductory calculus.The integration of biology, chemistry and mathematics will assist us in asking and answering questions that lie in the intersections of these fields. Such topics include the chemical structure of DNA, the mathematical modeling of biological population growth, and the equations governing chemical equilibria and kinetics. Our laboratory work in biology and chemistry will also allow us to observe phenomena, collect data, and gain first-hand insight into the complex relationship between mathematical models and experimental results.Program activities will include lectures, laboratories, workshops, scientific writing and student presentations. Disciplines will be integrated throughout the year so students can understand the natural world from multiple perspectives.During fall, we will focus on skill building in the laboratory and acquiring the basic tools in chemistry, biology and mathematics. By winter quarter, students will increase their ability to integrate disciplines, moving between established models and experimental data to ask and seek answers to their own questions.The student presentations will require students to actively participate in conversations on current topics in science. Students will engage library research, writing and oral presentations to communicate their knowledge of these topics to others. A spring quarter component will be a library or laboratory research project and presentation of their findings at the college's annual Science Carnival. This opportunity will allow students to use their knowledge of science to teach schoolchildren (in K-12) in order to improve their own understanding of science.This program is designed for students who want a foundation in science using an interdisciplinary framework. It will require a serious commitment of time and effort. Overall, we expect students to end the program in the spring with a solid working knowledge of scientific and mathematical concepts, and with the ability to reason critically and solve problems. Students will also gain a strong appreciation of the interconnectedness of biological, chemical and mathematical systems, and an ability to apply this knowledge to complex problems.Upon completion of the program, students will have completed one year of general chemistry with laboratory, general biology with laboratory and two quarters of mathematics (precalculus and possibly calculus for students who are prepared). | Benjamin Simon Rachel Hastings Dharshi Bopegedera | Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR | Fall | Fall Winter Spring | |||
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Carolyn Prouty and James Neitzel
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Program | SO–SRSophomore - Senior | 16 | 16 | Day | S 13Spring | This program will explore the molecular events that determine the biological activity and toxicity of selected xenobiotic molecules--chemicals not normally produced by the body. These molecules include natural products, drugs and chemicals released in the environment by human activity. We will focus on specific molecules, which might include drugs like ethanyl estrodiol (birth control pill), natural carcinogens like aflatoxin, and other toxicants like BPA (bisphenol A). For each molecule, we will examine in detail the molecular mechanisms by which they act on cellular or physiological processes. How do chemicals treat a disease or cause cancer? Are all people (or species) equally sensitive to these therapeutic and/or toxic effects? How are chemicals metabolized and what molecular targets does a xenobiotic molecule alter? How are genes affected by chemicals and how do the genes affect the way the chemicals act or their fate in the body? Can we use molecular structures to predict which molecules may bioaccumulate and cause cancer, while other molecules can be easily detoxified and excreted?To help understand the actions of these molecules, this program will examine biochemical pathways used in the transformations of these molecules. We will examine cellular signal pathways in detail, as the biological actions of these molecules are often due to perturbations of these normal signal processes. We will also use tools from modern genetics and bioinformatics to examine how genetic differences can influence the effects of these chemicals. This will include current research in epigenetics that proposes mechanisms that explain how prior environmental exposures can influence an organism's current health.We will emphasize data analysis and interpretation obtained from primary literature reports or agency databases. Quantitative reasoning will be a major component of class examples, workshop and homework assignments. Embedded in these activities are principles of cell biology and biochemistry, organic chemistry, genetics, physiology and epidemiology. Students who take this program and Chemistry of Living Systems in fall and winter will cover all of the major subject areas usually covered in Molecule to Organism. | Carolyn Prouty James Neitzel | Tue Wed Thu | Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR | Spring | Spring | ||||
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Lydia McKinstry
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Program | SO–SRSophomore - Senior | 12 | 12 | Day | Su 13Summer Full | This program is designed to be the equivalent of a year-long college level course in organic chemistry. It will be fast-paced and rigorous with an emphasis on the relationship between the structure and chemical behavior of organic molecules. Specific topics will include electronic structure, chemical bonding, acid-base properties of organic molecules, stereochemistry, nomenclature, electron delocalization, conjugation, and resonance. The reactions and mechanisms of nucleophilic substitution, elimination, electrophilic addition in olefinic and aromatic systems, nucleophilic addition and addition-elimination in carbonyl compounds and aromatic compounds, enol/enolate alkylation and acylation, and radical chemistry will be studied in detail. The fundamental theories of mass spectrometry (GC-MS), infrared (FT-IR) and nuclear magnetic resonance (FT-NMR) spectroscopies will be presented and the method of spectral interpretation will be used to elucidate the structures of organic molecules. Simple organometallic chemistry and asymmetric catalysis may also be introduced, if time permits. Course activities will include lectures, small-group problem solving workshops, homework, quizzes and examinations. Well prepared students should expect to spend a minimum of 32 hours each week outside of class meetings, reading, studying and practicing the material. | Lydia McKinstry | Tue Wed | Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR | Summer | Summer | ||||
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Joseph Tougas and Rebecca Sunderman
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Program | FR–SOFreshmen - Sophomore | 16 | 16 | Day | S 13Spring | We have inherited a scientific worldview that provides explanations for many phenomena that were great mysteries to earlier generations. It's easy to overlook how amazing it is that we can explain visible effects in terms of invisible objects such as molecules, atoms and electrons. How did this scientific worldview come to be? This program will follow the historical development of scientific thought from the teachings and practices of alchemy to modern chemistry. We will pay special attention to the meaning of scientific beliefs about the basic structure of material reality in different historical periods, as this structure can be discovered by observing the changes and transformations of visible substances. We will work hands-on in the laboratory with some of the "magical" transformation that so intrigued early scientific researchers. We will explore how the modern scientific method evolved and how it can be applied to everyday problems and puzzles, as we learn about concepts of chemistry--the periodic table of elements, chemical properties, and energy. This will give us material for philosophical reflection on the nature of knowledge, and how ideas about knowledge have changed historically. This program does not require any previous science or philosophy experience. | science and education. | Joseph Tougas Rebecca Sunderman | Freshmen FR Sophomore SO | Spring | Spring | ||||
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Paula Schofield, Brian Walter, Richard Weiss, Abir Biswas, Michael Paros, Clyde Barlow, Benjamin Simon, Judith Cushing, Dharshi Bopegedera, Rebecca Sunderman, EJ Zita, Donald Morisato, Clarissa Dirks, James Neitzel, Sheryl Shulman, Neal Nelson and Lydia McKinstry
Signature Required:
Fall Winter Spring
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Program | SO–SRSophomore - Senior | V | V | Day | F 12 Fall | W 13Winter | S 13Spring | Rigorous quantitative and qualitative research is an important component of academic learning in Scientific Inquiry. Research opportunities allow science students to work on specific projects associated with faculty members’ expertise. Students typically begin by working in an apprenticeship model with faculty or laboratory staff and gradually take on more independent projects within the context of the specific research program as they gain experience. Students can develop vital skills in research design, data acquisition and interpretation, modeling and theoretical analysis, written and oral communication, collaboration and critical thinking. These are valuable skills for students pursuing a graduate degree or entering the job market.Faculty offering undergraduate research opportunities are listed below. Contact them directly if you are interested. (chemistry) works with biophysical applications of spectroscopy to study physiological processes at the organ level, with direct applications to health problems. Students with backgrounds in biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics or computer science can obtain practical experience in applying their backgrounds to biomedical research problems in an interdisciplinary laboratory environment. (geology, earth science) studies nutrient and toxic trace metal cycles in terrestrial and coastal ecosystems. Potential projects could include studies of mineral weathering, wildfires and mercury cycling in ecosystems. Students could pursue these interests at the laboratory-scale or through field-scale biogeochemistry studies taking advantage of the Evergreen Ecological Observation Network (EEON), a long-term ecological study area. Students with backgrounds in a combination of geology, biology or chemistry could gain skills in soil, vegetation and water collection and learn methods of sample preparation and analysis for major and trace elements. (chemistry) would like to engage students in two projects. (1) Quantitative determination of metals in the stalactites formed in aging concrete using ICP-MS. Students who are interested in learning about the ICP-MS technique and using it for quantitative analysis will find this project interesting. (2) Science and education. We will work with local teachers to develop lab activities that enhance the science curriculum in local schools. Students who have an interest in teaching science and who have completed general chemistry with laboratory would be ideal for this project. (computer science, ecology informatics) studies how scientists might better use information technology and visualization in their research, particularly in ecology and environmental studies. She would like to work with students who have a background in computer science or one of the sciences (e.g., ecology, biology, chemistry or physics), and who are motivated to explore how new computing paradigms can be harnessed to improve the individual and collaborative work of scientists. Such technologies include visualizations, plugins, object-oriented systems, new database technologies and "newer" languages that scientists themselves use such as python or R. (biology) aims to better understand the evolutionary principles that underlie the emergence, spread and containment of infectious disease by studying the coevolution of retroviruses and their primate hosts. Studying how host characteristics and ecological changes influence virus transmission in lemurs will enable us to address the complex spatial and temporal factors that impact emerging diseases. Students with a background in biology and chemistry will gain experience in molecular biology techniques, including tissue culture and the use of viral vectors. (mathematics) is interested in problems in mathematical biology associated with population and evolutionary dynamics. Students working with him will help create computer simulations using agent-based modeling and cellular automata and analyzing non-linear models for the evolution of cooperative behavior in strategic multiplayer evolutionary games. Students should have a strong mathematics or computer science backgroun. (organic chemistry) is interested in organic synthesis research, including asymmetric synthesis methodology, chemical reaction dynamics and small molecule synthesis. One specific study involves the design and synthesis of enzyme inhibitor molecules to be used as effective laboratory tools with which to study the mechanistic steps of programmed cell death (e.g., in cancer cells). Students with a background in organic chemistry and biology will gain experience with the laboratory techniques of organic synthesis as well as the techniques of spectroscopy. (biology) is interested in the developmental biology of the embryo, a model system for analyzing how patterning occurs. Maternally encoded signaling pathways establish the anterior-posterior and dorsal-ventral axes. Individual student projects will use a combination of genetic, molecular biological and biochemical approaches to investigate the spatial regulation of this complex process. (biochemistry) uses methods from organic and analytical chemistry to study biologically interesting molecules. A major focus of his current work is on fatty acids; in particular, finding spectroscopic and chromatographic methods to identify fatty acids in complex mixtures and to detect changes that occur in fats during processing or storage. This has relevance both for foods and in biodiesel production. The other major area of interest is in plant natural products, such as salicylates. Work is in process screening local plants for the presence of these molecules, which are important plant defense signals. Work is also supported in determining the nutritional value of indigenous plants. Students with a background and interest in organic, analytical or biochemistry could contribute to this work. (computer science) and (computer science) are interested in working with advanced computer topics and current problems in the application of computing to the sciences. Their areas of interest include simulations of advanced architectures for distributed computing, advanced programming languages and compilers, programming languages for concurrent and parallel computing and hardware modeling languages. (biology, veterinary medicine) is interested in animal health and diseases that affect the animal agriculture industry. Currently funded research includes the development of bacteriophage therapy for dairy cattle uterine infections, calf salmonellosis and mastitis. A number of hands-on laboratory projects are available to students interested in pursuing careers in science. (organic, polymer, materials chemistry) is interested in the interdisciplinary fields of biodegradable plastics and biomedical polymers. Research in the field of biodegradable plastics is becoming increasingly important to replace current petroleum-derived materials and to reduce the environmental impact of plastic wastes. Modification of starch through copolymerization and use of bacterial polyesters show promise in this endeavor. Specific projects within biomedical polymers involve the synthesis of poly (lactic acid) copolymers that have potential for use in tissue engineering. Students with a background in chemistry and biology will gain experience in the synthesis and characterization of these novel polymer materials. Students will present their work at American Chemical Society (ACS) conferences. (computer science) isinterested in working with advanced computer topics and current problems in the application of computing to the sciences. Her areas of interest include simulations of advanced architectures for distributed computing, advanced programming languages and compilers, programming languages for concurrent and parallel computing, and hardware modeling languages. (biology) is interested in immunology, bacterial and viral pathogenesis, vaccine development and gene therapy applications. Recent focus has been on developing novel methods for vaccine delivery and immune enhancement in finfish. Specific projects include using attenuated bacteria to deliver either protein-based or nucleic acid vaccines in vivo and investigating bacterial invasion mechanisms. In collaboration with (faculty emerita) other projects include characterization of bacteriophage targeting the fish pathogen and elucidation of phage and host activities in stationary-phase infected with T4 bacteriophage. Students with a background in biology and chemistry will gain experience in laboratory research methods, including microbiological techniques, tissue culture and recombinant DNA technology, and may have opportunities to present data at regional and national conferences. (inorganic/materials chemistry, physical chemistry) is interested in the synthesis and property characterization of new bismuth-containing materials. These compounds have been characterized as electronic conductors, attractive activators for luminescent materials, second harmonic generators and oxidation catalysts for several organic compounds. Traditional solid-state synthesis methods will be utilized to prepare new complex bismuth oxides. Once synthesized, powder x-ray diffraction patterns will be obtained and material properties such as conductivity, melting point, biocidal tendency, coherent light production and magnetic behavior will be examined when appropriate. (mathematics) is interested in problems relating to graphs, combinatorial games and especially combinatorial games played on graphs. He would like to work with students who have a strong background in mathematics and/or computer science and who are interested in applying their skills to open-ended problems relating to graphs and/or games. (computer science, mathematics) has several ongoing projects in computer vision, robotics and security. There are some opportunities for students to develop cybersecurity games for teaching network security concepts and skills. In robotics, he is looking for students to develop laboratory exercises for several different mobile robotic platforms, including Scribbler, LEGO NXT and iRobot Create. This would also involve writing tools for image processing and computer vision using sequences of still images, video streams and 2.5-D images from the Kinect. In addition, he is open to working with students who have their own ideas for projects in these and related areas, such as machine learning, artificial intelligence and analysis of processor performance. (physics) studies the Sun and the Earth. What are the mechanisms of global warming? What can we expect in the future? What can we do about it right now? How do solar changes affect Earth over decades (e.g., Solar Max) to millennia? Why does the Sun shine a bit more brightly when it is more magnetically active, even though sunspots are dark? Why does the Sun's magnetic field flip every 11 years? Why is the temperature of the Sun’s outer atmosphere millions of degrees higher than that of its surface? Students can do research related to global warming in Zita's academic programs and in contracts, and have investigated the Sun by analyzing data from solar observatories and using theory and computer modeling. Serious students are encouraged to form research contracts and may thereafter be invited to join our research team. Please go to the catalog view for specific information about each option. | Paula Schofield Brian Walter Richard Weiss Abir Biswas Michael Paros Clyde Barlow Benjamin Simon Judith Cushing Dharshi Bopegedera Rebecca Sunderman EJ Zita Donald Morisato Clarissa Dirks James Neitzel Sheryl Shulman Neal Nelson Lydia McKinstry | Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR | Fall | Fall Winter Spring | |||
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Lydia McKinstry, Michael Paros, Clarissa Dirks, Lalita Calabria and Benjamin Simon
Signature Required:
Summer
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Program | FR–SRFreshmen - Senior | V | V | Day, Evening and Weekend | Su 13Summer Full | Rigorous quantitative and qualitative research is an important component of academic learning in Scientific Inquiry. Research opportunities allow science students to work on specific projects associated with faculty members’ expertise. Students typically begin by working in an apprenticeship model with faculty or laboratory staff and gradually take on more independent projects within the context of the specific research program as they gain experience. Students can develop vital skills in research design, data acquisition and interpretation, modeling and theoretical analysis, written and oral communication, collaboration and critical thinking. These are valuable skills for students pursuing a graduate degree or entering the job market.Faculty offering undergraduate research opportunities are listed below. Please go to the catalog view for additional information. Contact the faculty directly if you are interested. | Lydia McKinstry Michael Paros Clarissa Dirks Lalita Calabria Benjamin Simon | Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR | Summer | Summer | |||||
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Clyde Barlow
Signature Required:
Fall Winter Spring
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Research | SO–SRSophomore - Senior | V | V | Day | F 12 Fall | W 13Winter | S 13Spring | Rigorous quantitative and qualitative research is an important component of academic learning in Scientific Inquiry. This independent learning opportunity allows advanced students to delve into real-world research with faculty who are currently engaged in specific projects. Students typically begin by working in apprenticeship with faculty or laboratory staff and gradually take on more independent projects within the context of the specific research program as they gain experience. Students can develop vital skills in research design, data acquisition and interpretation, written and oral communication, collaboration, and critical thinking that are valuable for students pursuing a graduate degree or entering the job market. (chemistry) works with biophysical applications of spectroscopy to study physiological processes at the organ level, with direct applications to health problems. Students with backgrounds in biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics or computer science can obtain practical experience in applying their backgrounds to biomedical research problems in an interdisciplinary laboratory environment. | Clyde Barlow | Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR | Fall | Fall Winter Spring | |||
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Dharshi Bopegedera
Signature Required:
Fall Winter Spring
|
Research | SO–SRSophomore - Senior | V | V | Day | F 12 Fall | W 13Winter | S 13Spring | Rigorous quantitative and qualitative research is an important component of academic learning in Scientific Inquiry. This independent learning opportunity allows advanced students to delve into real-world research with faculty who are currently engaged in specific projects. Students typically begin by working in apprenticeship with faculty or laboratory staff and gradually take on more independent projects within the context of the specific research program as they gain experience. Students can develop vital skills in research design, data acquisition and interpretation, written and oral communication, collaboration, and critical thinking that are valuable for students pursuing a graduate degree or entering the job market. (chemistry) would like to engage students in two projects: 1) quantitative determination of metals in the stalactites formed in aging concrete using ICP-MS and 2) science and education. Students who are interested in learning about the ICP-MS technique and using it for quantitative analysis will find the first project interesting. Students who have an interest in teaching science and who have completed general chemistry with laboratory would be ideal for the second project. We will work with local teachers to develop lab activities that enhance the science curriculum in local schools. | Dharshi Bopegedera | Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR | Fall | Fall Winter Spring | |||
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Lydia McKinstry
Signature Required:
Fall Winter Spring
|
Research | SO–SRSophomore - Senior | V | V | Day | F 12 Fall | W 13Winter | S 13Spring | Rigorous quantitative and qualitative research is an important component of academic learning in Scientific Inquiry. This independent learning opportunity allows advanced students to delve into real-world research with faculty who are currently engaged in specific projects. Students typically begin by working in apprenticeship with faculty or laboratory staff and gradually take on more independent projects within the context of the specific research program as they gain experience. Students can develop vital skills in research design, data acquisition and interpretation, written and oral communication, collaboration, and critical thinking that are valuable for students pursuing a graduate degree or entering the job market. (organic chemistry) is interested in organic synthesis research, including asymmetric synthesis methodology, chemical reaction dynamics and small molecule synthesis. One specific study involves the design and synthesis of enzyme inhibitor molecules to be used as effective laboratory tools with which to study the mechanistic steps of programmed cell death (e.g. in cancer cells). Students with a background in organic chemistry and biology will gain experience with the laboratory techniques of organic synthesis as well as the techniques of spectroscopy. | chemistry, health sciences. | Lydia McKinstry | Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR | Fall | Fall Winter Spring | ||
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Paula Schofield
Signature Required:
Fall Winter Spring
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Research | SO–SRSophomore - Senior | V | V | Day | F 12 Fall | W 13Winter | S 13Spring | Rigorous quantitative and qualitative research is an important component of academic learning in Scientific Inquiry. This independent learning opportunity allows advanced students to delve into real-world research with faculty who are currently engaged in specific projects. Students typically begin by working in apprenticeship with faculty or laboratory staff and gradually take on more independent projects within the context of the specific research program as they gain experience. Students can develop vital skills in research design, data acquisition and interpretation, written and oral communication, collaboration, and critical thinking that are valuable for students pursuing a graduate degree or entering the job market. (organic, polymer, materials chemistry) is interested in the interdisciplinary fields of biodegradable plastics and biomedical polymers. Research in the field of biodegradable plastics is becoming increasingly important to replace current petroleum-derived materials, and to reduce the environmental impact of plastic wastes. Modification of starch through copolymerization and use of bacterial polyesters show promise in this endeavor. Specific projects within biomedical polymers involve the synthesis of poly (lactic acid) copolymers that have potential for use in tissue engineering. Students with a background in chemistry and biology will gain experience in the synthesis and characterization of these novel polymer materials. Students will present their work at American Chemical Society (ACS) conferences. | Paula Schofield | Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR | Fall | Fall Winter Spring | |||
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Rebecca Sunderman
Signature Required:
Fall Winter Spring
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Research | SO–SRSophomore - Senior | V | V | Day | F 12 Fall | W 13Winter | S 13Spring | Rigorous quantitative and qualitative research is an important component of academic learning in Scientific Inquiry. This independent learning opportunity allows advanced students to delve into real-world research with faculty who are currently engaged in specific projects. Students typically begin by working in apprenticeship with faculty or laboratory staff and gradually take on more independent projects within the context of the specific research program as they gain experience. Students can develop vital skills in research design, data acquisition and interpretation, written and oral communication, collaboration, and critical thinking that are valuable for students pursuing a graduate degree or entering the job market. (inorganic/materials chemistry and physical chemistry) is interested in the synthesis and property characterization of new bismuth-containing materials. These compounds have been characterized as electronic conductors, attractive activators for luminescent materials, second harmonic generators and oxidation catalysts for several organic compounds. Traditional solid-state synthesis methods will be utilized to prepare new complex bismuth oxides. Once synthesized, powder x-ray diffraction patterns will be obtained and material properties such as conductivity, melting point, biocidal tendency, coherent light production and magnetic behavior will be examined when appropriate. | Rebecca Sunderman | Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR | Fall | Fall Winter Spring | |||
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Lydia McKinstry
Signature Required:
Summer
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Research | FR–SRFreshmen - Senior | 4 | 04 | Day, Evening and Weekend | Su 13Summer Full | Lydia McKinstry | Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR | Summer | Summer |
