A student can select an area such as urban heat island, rainfall patterns, growth patterns, or runoff in an area and do an analysis of the impact of changes in these areas over time. Freshmen should have taken a high school course in physics, environmental science, as well as geography. Depending on the student, introductory to moderately advanced laboratory techniques will be emphasized. Additionally, synthesis, purification, and spectral characterization will be included. The student should have a sincere interest in chemistry and experimental research and should develop a gradual independence in her work.
Students can work on two organic synthesis projects.
The goal is to generate this molecule and analyze whether it is the monomer or dimer and then to use it in synthesis to make fluorinated products. No minimum qualifications needed except a desire to learn new techniques and to practice safety in the lab. The research will focus on the construction of photochemical cells for the study of artificial photosynthesis. Students will prepare various electrolytes to determine factors that affect the efficiency of the cells. Advanced students will synthesize novel electrolytes.