2015–16 Undergraduate Index A–Z
Find the right fit; Academic Advising wants to help you.
Leave feedback about the online catalog or tell us ideas about what Evergreen could offer in the future.
- Catalog Views (Recently Updated, Evening & Weekend Studies, Freshman Programs, and More)
-
Recently Updated
Featured Areas
- Evening and Weekend Studies
- Fields of Study
- Freshmen Programs
- Individual Study
- Research Opportunities
- Student-Originated Studies
- Study Abroad
- Upper Division Science Opportunities
View by Location
- Searching & Filtering Options
-
Note: No need to submit! Your results are filtered in real time, as you type.
There is currently a display issue when filtering for Music Addressing Complexity: Countershapes, Counterpoints, and the Resistance to Homophony led by Arun Chandra. This program is still open for registration. We apologize for the inconvenience.
Get information and Course Reference Numbers for this program.
You can use in-page find (Ctrl + f or Command + f) to find this program to compare it to others.
Chemistry [clear]
Title | Offering | Standing | Credits | Credits | When | F | W | S | Su | Description | Preparatory | Faculty | Days | Multiple Standings | Start Quarters | Open Quarters |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Rebecca Sunderman, Clyde Barlow, Krishna Chowdary and Neil Switz
Signature Required:
Winter Spring
|
Program | SO–SRSophomore–Senior | 16 | 16 | Day | F 15 Fall | W 16Winter | S 16Spring | This is a year-long, upper-division science program in physical chemistry. In this program we will go from introductory chemistry concepts of the shapes of atomic and molecular orbitals, and explore how these shapes are known mathematically and measured experimentally. Similarly, we will move from stating that some materials are conductors to examining the solid-state structural characteristics that indicate a material is a potential conductor or semiconductor. This program is devoted to exploring the "But why?" of physical chemistry by examining topics in thermodynamics, quantum mechanics, kinetics, advanced inorganic chemistry, and materials chemistry. During Winter and Spring quarters statistical mechanics – the discipline that most unites physics and chemistry – will enable us to derive from first principles such “chemistry” topics as the law of mass action, the ideal gas law, the heat capacity of solids, and the Gibbs free energy, and such “physics” topics as the behavior of semiconductors, the Planck blackbody law, Bose-Einstein condensation, and the Chandrasekhar limit for stellar collapse. Many of the topics in this program require a strong mathematical foundation and comfort with application of calculus. Elements of upper-division linear algebra, differential equations, and probability will be taught in conjunction with the chemistry and physics content of this program.The program will encompass lectures, workshops, labs, group projects, seminars, homework, essays, field trips, and community interaction events. Primary topics of study will include: thermodynamics (enthalpy, entropy, Maxwell relations), statistical mechanics (equipartition, the Boltzmann factor, chemical potential, Bose and Fermi statistics), quantum mechanics (Schrodinger equation, atomic and molecular energy levels, electronic structure of atoms and molecules, spectroscopy), kinetics (unimolecular and biomolecular kinetics, reaction spontaneity, current kinetic theories), and properties of materials (phase diagrams, solid-state structure, bonding theories, applications of symmetry and point groups, electronic and magnetic properties of materials), as well as the chemistry of transition metal complexes and materials synthesis. Each quarter will involve significant advanced laboratory work focusing on instrumentation, experimental design and research, and structured experimentation. Additional focus on scientific writing, scientific ethics, and societal issues connected to science will be incorporated throughout the year. | Rebecca Sunderman Clyde Barlow Krishna Chowdary Neil Switz | Mon Mon Tue Tue Wed Thu Fri | Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR | Fall | Fall Winter Spring | ||
Andrew Brabban and Abir Biswas
|
Program | SO–SRSophomore–Senior | 16 | 16 | Day | S 16Spring | This upper-division science program will examine the interplay between the biological and chemical processes of the Earth's hydrosphere and lithosphere. Many environmental processes occur as a result of specific microbial processes that are intrinsically controlled by the substrate (geology) and the geochemical parameters (redox, pH), making these studies inherently interdisciplinary.Over the quarter, we will investigate biotic and abiotic controls on the cycling of important elements (specifically key biological and chemical elements of carbon, nitrogen, iron, etc., and elements we often consider toxic such as arsenic and heavy metals) in both "pristine" and polluted systems, and in aerobic to anaerobic systems. Students will cover topics in environmental microbiology examining the roles microorganisms play in the environment, their metabolism, and the broad diversity of the ecosystems they occupy. Likewise, students will cover topics in geochemistry and geobiology examining the role of microbes in element cycling at the Earth's surface. Laboratory work will focus on both classical microbiological methods, as well as newer biochemical and molecular procedures to determine the biodiversity of soil and water samples and the activity of specific organisms within an ecosystem. In addition, students will learn field sampling techniques, collect soil and/or water samples in the field during day trips, and conduct relevant geochemical analyses in the laboratory to elucidate element cycles. Weekly seminars and student presentations discussing recent research from the primary literature will be important components of the program. | Andrew Brabban Abir Biswas | Mon Mon Tue Wed Wed Thu | Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR | Spring | Spring | ||||
Riley Rex and Vauhn Foster-Grahler
|
Program | FR–SRFreshmen–Senior | 16 | 16 | Day | S 16Spring | 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 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 and 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 use multiple representations to study linear, exponential, rational, and logarithmic functions using a problem-solving approach to college algebra. Collaborative learning will be emphasized. In the science seminar, students will read historical and contemporary readings in math and science and discuss how multiple cultures view math and science. Students will give a presentation to the class on a topic related to or as an extension of the seminar readings. | Riley Rex Vauhn Foster-Grahler | Tue Tue Wed Wed Thu Thu Fri | Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR | Spring | Spring | ||||
Tony Molinero
|
Program | FR–SRFreshmen–Senior | 8 | 08 | Day | Su 16 Session I Summer | We will begin the study of general 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, stoichiometry, and properties of gases. Time permitting other topics such as thermochemistry may be explored. 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, preparing solutions, titrations, and spectroscopy. | Tony Molinero | Tue Wed Thu Thu | Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR | Summer | Summer | ||||
Riley Rex
|
Program | FR–SRFreshmen–Senior | 8 | 08 | Day | Su 16 Session II Summer | This course is designed to offer the equivalent of the second half of a year-long course in general chemistry. The topics to be presented will include thermochemistry, properties and physical changes of matter, solution chemistry, kinetics, thermodynamics, chemical equilibrium, acid-base chemistry, and aqueous equilibria. Additional topics in electrochemistry, nuclear chemistry, and coordination chemistry may be presented if time permits. Course activities will include lectures, small-group problem-solving workshops, and laboratories. Laboratory work will build upon the skills learned in General Chemistry I, and provide hands-on experience with additional methods relevant to the topics presented in lecture. This is part two of a two course sequence, that together cover one year of general chemistry with lab. | Riley Rex | Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri | Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR | Summer | Summer | ||||
Jennifer Martinez, Sara Rose and Lydia McKinstry
Signature Required:
Winter Spring
|
Program | FR–SRFreshmen–Senior | 16 | 16 | Day | F 15 Fall | W 16Winter | S 16Spring | This introductory-level program is designed for students who are prepared to take their first year of college-level science using an interdisciplinary framework. This program offers an integrated study of biology, chemistry, and physics that serves as an introduction to the concepts, theories, and structures which underlie the natural sciences. The goal is to equip students with the conceptual, methodological, and quantitative tools they need to ask and answer questions in a variety of disciplines using the models and tools of chemistry, physics and biology. Students will also gain a strong appreciation of the interconnectedness of physical, biological and chemical systems, and an ability to apply this knowledge to complex problems.Program activities will include lectures and small-group problem-solving workshops, where conceptual and technical skills will be developed. 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. We will make extensive use of quantitative applications in all program activities.All laboratory work and approximately one-half of the non-lecture time will be spent working in collaborative problem-solving groups. 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 quantitative concepts and the ability to reason critically and solve problems.Students completing this program will have covered material equivalent to one year of general biology with laboratory, one year of general chemistry with laboratory, and two quarters of algebra-based physics with laboratory. Successful students will be prepared to pursue upper-division work in chemistry, biology, and environmental science. | Jennifer Martinez Sara Rose Lydia McKinstry | Mon Mon Tue Tue Wed Wed Thu Thu Thu | Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR | Fall | Fall Winter Spring | ||
Krishna Chowdary, Neil Switz and Riley Rex
Signature Required:
Winter Spring
|
Program | FR–SRFreshmen–Senior | 12, 16 | 12 16 | Day | F 15 Fall | W 16Winter | S 16Spring | This introductory program integrates first-year university calculus and physics with topics from chemistry and relevant areas of history and scientific literature to explore how scientists make sense of, and intervene in, the natural and human-created worlds. Careful observation of the natural world reveals an underlying order, which scientists try to understand and explain through model building and experimentation. Physical scientists seek to reveal the fundamental nature of matter, its composition, and its interactions; such understanding forms the essential background for our modern technological society. This program lays the foundation for developing this understanding. Students will be supported in developing a firm background in college-level science, becoming prepared for further work in the mathematical and physical sciences.The program will have a significant laboratory component. Workshops and seminar discussions will also allow for collaborative work on math, chemistry, and physics problems as well as an opportunity to explore connections between history, theory, and practice. The program is intended for students with solid high-school level backgrounds in science and mathematics; in particular, a good grasp of precalculus (including algebra and trigonometry) will be assumed. Equally important for success, however, will be a commitment to working hard and effectively in groups.The work will be intensive and challenging but also exciting; students should expect to spend at least 50 hours per week engaged with material during and outside of class. The program will include readings, lectures, labs, workshops, seminars, projects, frequent homework sets, quizzes, and exams; students will have the opportunity to demonstrate the knowledge they have gained in each of these settings. Students in this year-long program will also have the opportunity to work with three different physical scientists (two physicists and a chemist) via a shift in the faculty team and program style between fall and winter/spring quarters. Students who successfully complete all three quarters of the program will have covered material equivalent to a year of calculus and calculus-based physics with lab along with some related chemistry topics, and will be prepared for further introductory work in chemistry as well as upper-division work in mathematics and physics. | Krishna Chowdary Neil Switz Riley Rex | Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR | Fall | Fall Winter Spring | |||
Paula Schofield and James Neitzel
Signature Required:
Fall Winter Spring
|
Program | SO–SRSophomore–Senior | 16 | 16 | Day | F 15 Fall | W 16Winter | S 16Spring | This program develops and interrelates concepts in experimental (laboratory) biology, organic chemistry, and biochemistry, thus providing a foundation for students who plan to continue studies in chemistry, laboratory biology, field biology, and medicine. Students will carry out upper-division work in organic chemistry, biochemistry, cellular and molecular biology, and genetics in a yearlong sequence. The program integrates two themes, one at the cell level and the other at the molecule level. In the cell theme, we start with the cell and microbiology and proceed to the whole organism with the examination of structure/function relationships at all levels. In the molecular theme, we will examine organic chemistry, the nature of organic compounds and reactions, and carry this theme into biochemistry and the fundamental chemical reactions of living systems. As the year progresses, the two themes continually merge through studies of cellular and molecular processes in biological systems.Each aspect of the program will contain a significant laboratory component. On a weekly basis, students will write papers and maintain laboratory notebooks. All laboratory work and approximately half of the non-lecture time will be spent working in collaborative problem-solving groups. Spring quarter student-designed research projects are a culmination of all major concepts learned throughout the year.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. | Paula Schofield James Neitzel | Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR | Fall | Fall Winter Spring | |||
Paula Schofield, Richard Weiss, Andrew Brabban, Neil Switz, Brian Walter, Abir Biswas, Michael Paros, Dharshi Bopegedera, Rebecca Sunderman, EJ Zita, Donald Morisato, Clarissa Dirks, James Neitzel, Sheryl Shulman, Neal Nelson and Lydia McKinstry
Signature Required:
Fall Winter Spring
|
Program | SO–SRSophomore–Senior | V | V | Day | F 15 Fall | W 16Winter | S 16Spring | 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. (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 can 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. She 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. With Dharshi, students will work with local teachers to develop lab activities that enhance the science curriculum in local schools. Students with an interest in teaching science who have completed general chemistry with laboratory would be ideal for this project. (3) Dharshi is also interested in looking at chemicals present in e-cigarettes. A student interested in this project could work on the organic or inorganic chemicals. (biology) conducts research in many areas of microbiology and ecology. Her recent work in microbiology has focused on the biodiversity and distribution of tardigrades in different ecosystems. She also aims to better understand the evolutionary principles that underlie the emergence, spread, and containment of infectious disease by studying the co-evolution of retroviruses and their hosts. Lastly, she is conducting snail surveys in Washington state to better characterize the species in the state, something that hasn’t been done in many decades. Depending on the project, students will gain experience in molecular biology technique, microbiology, field ecology, genetics, bioinformatics, and tissue culture. (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 or analytical biochemistry will 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 areas of interest include simulations of advanced architectures for distributed computing, advanced programming languages and compilers, and programming languages for concurrent and parallel computing. (physiology, microbiology, veterinary medicine) is interested in animal health, diseases that affect the animal agriculture industry, and basic ecology of bacteriophage in physiologic systems. 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, with a particular emphasis on microbiology. (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) is interested in working with advanced computer topics and current problems in the application of computing to the sciences. Her areas of interest include advanced programming languages and compilers, programming language design, programming languages for concurrent and parallel computing, and logic programming. (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 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, videos treams 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. (marine science) studies the developmental physiology and ecology of marine invertebrates. She is interested in the biochemistry of the seawater-organism interface, developmental nutritional biochemistry and metabolic depression, invasive species, carbonate chemistry (ocean acidification), and cultural relationships with foods from the sea. Students have the opportunity to collaboratively develop lines of inquiry for lab and/or field studies in ecology, developmental biology, physiology, marine carbonate chemistry and mariculture. (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 and Scott Morgan to establish a new research program at Evergreen. She and Cushing will model land use impacts on climate change; she and Morgan will plan and facilitate sustainability projects on campus. More information on Zita's research is available at . | Paula Schofield Richard Weiss Andrew Brabban Neil Switz Brian Walter Abir Biswas Michael Paros 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 | |||
Dharshi Bopegedera
Signature Required:
Fall Winter Spring
|
Research | SO–SRSophomore–Senior | V | V | Day | F 15 Fall | W 16Winter | S 16Spring | 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. (3) I am also interested in looking at chemicals present in e-cigarettes. A student interested in this project could work on the organic or inorganic chemicals. | Dharshi Bopegedera | Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR | Fall | Fall Winter Spring | |||
Lydia McKinstry
Signature Required:
Fall Winter Spring
|
Research | SO–SRSophomore–Senior | V | V | Day | F 15 Fall | W 16Winter | S 16Spring | 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 | |||
Neil Switz
Signature Required:
Fall Winter Spring
|
Research | SO–SRSophomore–Senior | 6 | 06 | Day | F 15 Fall | W 16Winter | S 16Spring | 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 | |||
Paula Schofield
Signature Required:
Fall Winter Spring
|
Research | SO–SRSophomore–Senior | V | V | Day | F 15 Fall | W 16Winter | S 16Spring | 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 | |||
Rebecca Sunderman
Signature Required:
Fall Winter Spring
|
Research | SO–SRSophomore–Senior | V | V | Day | F 15 Fall | W 16Winter | S 16Spring | 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 |