2014–15 Academic Catalog

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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
Chemistry Counts! Dharshi Bopegedera and Vauhn Foster-Grahler chemistry mathematics		Program	FR–SRFreshmen–Senior	16	16	Day			S 15Spring		This program will explore topics in chemistry at the introductory level. It is designed for students who are eager to gain an understanding of chemistry so that they can pursue further studies at the general chemistry level and for those who are seeking to broaden their liberal arts education. Program activities will include lectures, workshops, and laboratory experiments. We will begin the study of introductory chemistry by exploring the structure of the atom, the nature of the chemical bond, and proceed towards an understanding of molecular geometry.This will lead us to discussions of the periodic table, chemical reactions, mole concepts, and stoichiometry. In the laboratory we will develop bench skills and lab techniques. In particular we will focus on measurements, preparing solutions, titrations, and spectroscopy while learning how to use spreadsheet software for data collection and analysis. In chemistry workshops, students will work in small groups to solve problems that further their understanding of the topics covered in lectures. Collaborative learning will be expected and emphasized although students will be responsible for their individual work.In the mathematics workshops we will study linear, exponential, rational, and logarithmic functions using a problem-solving approach to college algebra. Collaborative learning will be emphasized. A graphing calculator is required.Students will have the opportunity to do an independent project to demonstrate their understanding of chemistry and mathematics by developing a hands-on lab activity to teach chemistry and math concepts to middle school children. Students will present these activities at the Annual Evergreen Science Carnival.		Dharshi Bopegedera Vauhn Foster-Grahler		Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR	Spring	Spring
The Chemistry of Living Systems Lydia McKinstry and Paula Schofield biochemistry chemistry Signature Required: Fall Winter		Program	SO–SRSophomore–Senior	16	16	Day	F 14 Fall	W 15Winter			This upper-division science 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. 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.	Lydia McKinstry Paula Schofield		Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR	Fall	Fall Winter
Environmental Analysis Abir Biswas, Carri LeRoy and Clyde Barlow biology chemistry ecology environmental studies field studies geology writing Signature Required: Winter Spring		Program	SO–SRSophomore–Senior	16	16	Day	F 14 Fall	W 15Winter	S 15Spring		Well-designed and accurate chemical, ecological and geological measurements are key to assessing the biogeochemistry of natural ecosystems. This is a field- and laboratory-intensive science program designed for students with solid preparations in general chemistry, biology, geology and precalculus math who want to pursue more advanced investigations of bio-geo-chemical systems. Students will study statistics, geochemistry, analytical chemistry, freshwater ecology and GIS programming. Instrumental techniques of chemical analysis will be developed in an advanced laboratory. Program work will emphasize quantitative analysis, quality control procedures, research design and technical writing.During fall and winter quarters, we will address topics in carbon and nutrient cycling in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, in addition to analytical chemistry, GIS, statistics and instrumental methods of chemical analysis. Students will participate in group projects studying water quality, trophic structure, organic matter and 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 and weathering rates in natural systems, and to measure analytes and phytochemicals critical to quantification of leaf-litter decay processes and marine-derived inputs to ecosystem function in freshwater systems. Computers and statistical methods will be used extensively for data analysis and simulation, as well as for work with GIS.In the fall, there will be a week-long field trip to collect natural waters from diverse sites in Eastern Washington. These samples will form the basis for testing and evaluating chemical analysis methods and for developing a quantitative assessment of the geochemistry of the waters. In the winter, students will collect and analyze samples from a suite of ecosystem compartments (e.g., soil horizons, leaves, woody debris, streams, biota) to quantify nutrient storage and cycling on the landscape.Spring quarter will be devoted to extensive project work building on skills developed in the fall and winter. Students will conduct hypothesis-driven experimental design, sample collection, analysis, and statistical interpretations prior to presenting their results in both oral and written form to conclude the year.		Abir Biswas Carri LeRoy Clyde Barlow		Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR	Fall	Fall Winter Spring
Forensics and Criminal Behavior Rebecca Sunderman, Andrew Brabban and Toska Olson biochemistry biology chemistry communication gender and women's studies mathematics physiology sociology writing		Program	FR–SRFreshmen–Senior	16	16	Day	F 14 Fall	W 15Winter	S 15Spring		How can we think analytically and critically about crime in America? Why is crime such a central focus in modern American society? How is a crime scene analyzed? How are crimes solved? How can we prevent violent crime and murder? This program will integrate sociological and forensic science perspectives to investigate crime and societal responses to it. We will explore how social and cultural factors including race, class and gender are associated with crime and criminal behavior. In addition, we will consider criminological theories and explore how social scientists can help identify offenders through criminal profiling and forensic psychology.Through our forensics investigations, we will examine subjects including biology, chemistry, pathology and physics. We will study evidentiary techniques for crime scene analysis, such as the examination of fingerprints, DNA, blood spatter, fibers, glass fractures and fragments, hairs, ballistics, teeth, bones and body remains. Students will learn hands-on laboratory and field approaches to the scientific methods used in crime scene investigation. Students will also learn to apply analytical, quantitative and qualitative skills to collect and interpret evidence. Students can expect seminars, labs, lectures, guest speakers and workshops, along with both individual and group project work.This is an introductory program about science, critical thinking and the perspectives of sociology, chemistry and biology through the lens of crime analysis. Students interested in developing their skills in scientific inquiry, critical thinking and interdisciplinary studies should consider this program. Students who may not consider themselves to be "science" students are encouraged to enroll.		Rebecca Sunderman Andrew Brabban Toska Olson		Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR	Fall	Fall Winter
General Chemistry Lydia McKinstry and Paula Schofield chemistry		Program	FR–SRFreshmen–Senior	16	16	Day			S 15Spring		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, providing 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. This 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 a yearlong 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
General Chemistry with Laboratory I, II, III David Smith chemistry		Course	FR–SRFreshmen–Senior	6	06	Evening	F 14 Fall	W 15Winter	S 15Spring		Chemistry is the foundation for everything around us and relates to everything we do. These courses provide the fundamental principles of general chemistry. They also provide the prerequisites for advanced chemistry, health sciences, and medical offerings. These courses also provide a basic laboratory science for students seeking a well rounded liberal arts education. This is the first course in a year-long general chemistry sequence. Topics covered in fall quarter include unit conversions, electron structures, and chemical bonding and will include related laboratory experiments. General Chemistry II builds upon material covered in General Chemistry I. Topics covered in winter quarter include thermochemistry, chemical kinetics, chemical equilibria, and acid-base equilibria. Lab work will complement in-class learning. General Chemistry III will continue with acid-base chemistry, pH, complex ion equilibria, entropy, and transition metals, as well as other related topics. This quarter also includes a lab section that will complement the course work.		David Smith	Mon Wed	Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR	Fall	Fall Winter Spring
Introduction to Environmental Studies Gerardo Chin-Leo, Dharshi Bopegedera and Ralph Murphy chemistry ecology economics environmental studies political science Signature Required: Winter		Program	SO–SRSophomore–Senior	16	16	Day	F 14 Fall	W 15Winter			This two-quarter program is designed to serve as a foundation for advanced programs in environmental studies. As such, it will survey a range of disciplines and skills essential for environmental problem solving from both a scientific and social science perspective. Specifically, we will study ecology, chemistry, American political and economic history, political science, environmental policy-making and micro/environmental economics. In addition, we will develop field, lab, quantitative reasoning and statistics skills with the goal of understanding current issues on a wide range of topics in environmental studies.In fall quarter, we will examine local environmental issues such as degradation of aquatic systems, introduced exotic species, harmful algal blooms, salmon fisheries and local consequences of global climate change. Science lectures will develop the principles and skills relevant to understanding environmental phenomena and processes; the ecology lectures and fieldwork will examine the factors controlling the species diversity, distribution and productivity of organisms; and the chemistry lectures and labs will present atomic structure, the applications of the periodic table, nature of the chemical bond and stoichiometric calculations while developing students’ quantitative reasoning skills. Social science lectures will examine how the values of democracy and capitalism from the founding era to the present influence resource management, the scope and limitations of governmental policymaking, regulatory agencies and environmental law. Understanding the different levels (federal, state, local) of governmental responsibility for environmental protection will be explored in-depth. Finally, there will be an introduction to research design and statistics.In winter quarter, we will continue the presentation of principles in ecology, chemistry and social science relevant to environmental studies and continue to develop quantitative approaches to data analysis. The thematic focus will shift to a more global scale and we will examine in depth three major challenges for the early 21th century: natural resources, global warming and energy. These related topics require an understanding of the science, politics and economics of each issue and how they interact. In addition to studying the science and policy underlying these issues, we will explore how economic analysis can be used as a problem-solving tool for environmental issues.The material will be presented through lectures, workshops, seminars, labs, field trips/fieldwork and quantitative methods. Field trips, seminar and case studies will offer opportunities to see how science and policy interact in environmental issues.		Gerardo Chin-Leo Dharshi Bopegedera Ralph Murphy		Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR	Fall	Fall Winter
Introduction to Natural Science Thane Taylor, Pauline Yu and James Neitzel biology chemistry education mathematics		Program	FR–SRFreshmen–Senior	16	16	Day	F 14 Fall	W 15Winter	S 15Spring		This program will offer students a conceptual and methodological introduction to biology, chemistry, mathematics and computation. In order to understand our world from a scientific perspective, we need to be able to analyze complex systems at multiple levels. We need to understand the ways that matter transforms chemically and how energy and entropy drive those transformations. Biological systems can be understood at the molecular level, but we also need to know about cells, organisms and ecological systems and how they change over time. The language for describing these systems is both quantitative and computational. The integration of biology, chemistry, mathematics and computing 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, the equations governing chemical equilibria and kinetics, and the algorithms underlying bioinformatics. Program activities will include lectures, small group problem-solving workshops, laboratory and field work and seminar discussions. Students will learn to describe their work through scientific writing and public presentations. Our laboratory work in biology and chemistry will also allow us to observe phenomena, collect data and gain firsthand insight into the complex relationship between mathematical models and experimental results. 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. Biology laboratories in this program will include participation in the SEA-PHAGE program coordinated by the Howard Hughes Medical Institute and the use of bioinformatics tools on a bacteriophage genome. In addition to studying current scientific theories, we will consider the historical, societal and personal factors that influence our thinking about the natural world. We will also examine the impacts on societies due to changes in science and technology. During spring quarter, there will be an opportunity for small student groups to conduct an independent, scientific investigation designed in collaboration with the program faculty.This program is designed for students who want a solid preparation for further study in the sciences. Students who only want to get a taste of science will find this program quite demanding and should consult the faculty before the program begins. Overall, we expect students to end the program in the spring with a working knowledge of scientific, mathematical and computational concepts, with the ability to reason critically and to solve problems and with hands-on experience in natural science.		Thane Taylor Pauline Yu James Neitzel		Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR	Fall	Fall Winter Spring
Undergraduate Research in Scientific Inquiry Paula Schofield, Richard Weiss, David McAvity, Neil Switz, Brian Walter, Abir Biswas, Michael Paros, Clyde Barlow, Judith Cushing, Dharshi Bopegedera, Rebecca Sunderman, EJ Zita, Donald Morisato, Clarissa Dirks, James Neitzel, Sheryl Shulman, Neal Nelson and Lydia McKinstry biochemistry biology chemistry computer science mathematics physics Signature Required: Fall Winter Spring		Program	SO–SRSophomore–Senior	V	V	Day	F 14 Fall	W 15Winter	S 15Spring		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, with specific information listed in the catalog view. Contact faculty 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. (biotechnology) studies the physiology and biochemistry of prokaryotes of industrial and agricultural importance. Students who commit at least a full year to a research project, enrolling for 4 to 16 credits each quarter, will learn a broad range of microbiology (both aerobic and anaerobic techniques), molecular (DNA analysis and cloning), and biochemical techniques (chemical and pathway analysis, protein isolation). Students will also have opportunities for internships at the USDA and elsewhere, and to present data at national and international conferences. (chemistry) would like to engage students in two projects: (1) There is concern that toxic metals are found in unsafe quantities in children’s toys and cosmetics. I would like to engage a student in the quantitative determination of these metals using the AA and the ICP-MS. Students who are interested in learning to use these instruments and quantitative analysis techniques 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 background. (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. Another major area of interest is plant natural products, screening local plants for the presence of salicylates, which are important plant defense signals and 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) is interested in working with advanced computer topics and current problems in the application of computing to the sciences. His interests 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 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 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. (computer science) is interested 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. (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. (physics) develops optical instruments for use in biophysical and biomedical applications, including low-cost diagnostics. Projects in the lab are suitable for motivated students with quantitative backgrounds in physics, biology, chemistry, mathematics or computer science. (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. (physics), who has expertise in energy physics, modeling and organic farming, is researching sustainability and climate change. Many students have done fine projects on sustainable energy and food production in her academic programs. Zita is working with Judy Cushing to model land use impacts on climate change and with Scott Morgan to plan and facilitate sustainability projects on campus. More information on Zita's research is available at .		Paula Schofield Richard Weiss David McAvity Neil Switz Brian Walter Abir Biswas Michael Paros Clyde Barlow 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
Undergraduate Research in Scientific Inquiry with C. Barlow Clyde Barlow biology chemistry physics Signature Required: Fall Winter Spring		Research	SO–SRSophomore–Senior	V	V	Day	F 14 Fall	W 15Winter	S 15Spring		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. (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
Undergraduate Research in Scientific Inquiry with D. Bopegedera Dharshi Bopegedera chemistry education Signature Required: Fall Winter Spring		Research	SO–SRSophomore–Senior	V	V	Day	F 14 Fall	W 15Winter	S 15Spring		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. (chemistry) would like to engage students in two projects: (1) There is concern that toxic metals are found in unsafe quantities in children’s toys and cosmetics. I would like to engage a student in the quantitative determination of these metals using the AA and the ICP-MS. Students who are interested in learning to use these instruments and quantitative analysis techniques 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.		Dharshi Bopegedera		Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR	Fall	Fall Winter Spring
Undergraduate Research in Scientific Inquiry with L. McKinstry Lydia McKinstry chemistry Signature Required: Fall Winter Spring		Research	SO–SRSophomore–Senior	V	V	Day	F 14 Fall	W 15Winter	S 15Spring		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. (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.		Lydia McKinstry		Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR	Fall	Fall Winter Spring
Undergraduate Research in Scientific Inquiry with N. Switz Neil Switz biology chemistry physics Signature Required: Fall Winter Spring		Research	SO–SRSophomore–Senior	6	06	Day	F 14 Fall	W 15Winter	S 15Spring		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 skills in research design, data acquisition and interpretation, modeling and theoretical analysis, written and oral communication, collaboration and critical thinking. Laboratory experience is especially important – and useful – for students planning to pursue graduate studies or enter the technical job market. (physics) develops optical instruments for use in biophysical and biomedical applications, including low-cost diagnostics. Projects in the lab are suitable for motivated students with quantitative backgrounds in physics, biology, chemistry, mathematics or computer science.		Neil Switz		Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR	Fall	Fall Winter Spring
Undergraduate Research in Scientific Inquiry with P. Schofield Paula Schofield chemistry Signature Required: Fall Winter Spring		Research	SO–SRSophomore–Senior	V	V	Day	F 14 Fall	W 15Winter	S 15Spring		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. (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
Undergraduate Research in Scientific Inquiry with R. Sunderman Rebecca Sunderman chemistry Signature Required: Fall Winter Spring		Research	SO–SRSophomore–Senior	V	V	Day	F 14 Fall	W 15Winter	S 15Spring		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. (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.		Rebecca Sunderman		Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR	Fall	Fall Winter Spring