CHEM 145 - Chemistry Research Techniques

Semester Offered: Spring
1 or unit(s)

This course provides an introduction to modern research instrumentation and techniques in chemistry and/or biochemistry through multiple-week laboratory projects. Topics may include: structural characterization with X-ray crystallography; biochemical characterization of proteins; materials analysis with scanning probe microscopies; polymer synthesis and characterization; synthesis and characterization of nanomaterials; computational chemistry to perform theoretical ab initio calculations and computer modeling of biomolecules. These topics are presented in the context of the instructor-specific theme.

Topic for 2025/26b: A multiple-week biochemical laboratory project. Students visualize how cells respond to thermal stress in environment and complete the biochemical isolation and characterization of proteins involved in adapting to the stress. Students have the opportunity to use advanced instrumentation and interpret and analyze the experimental results. Students also gain experience with a variety of forms of scientific communication. Eric Eberhardt.

Prerequisite(s): CHEM 125 and permission of the instructor.

One 75-minute period plus one 4-hour laboratory.

Course Format: CLS