Teaching
My expertise is in organic chemistry, broadly defined. Organic chemistry deals with molecules that take advantage of the strength of carbon-carbon bonds -- molecules like vitamin C, Vioxx, polystyrene, estrogen, DDT, etc. We will study the structures of these molecules, as well as the techniques used to determine those structures. We will then roll up our collective sleeves and delve into organic synthesis, the art of building molecules. The mechanisms by which molecules undergo reactions will be stresses; students will learn not only the what, but also the how and why. Organic chemistry requires three-dimensional thinking, attention to detail, and perseverance. It resists attempts at rote memorization and rewards creativity and openness to new ideas. It is the chemistry of life, and of our lives, and many of you are required to take it anyway, so perhaps this sales pitch is completely unnecessary.
I've taught the following classes at Lawrence:
- General Chemistry II (Chem 116)
- Organic Chemistry I (Chem 250) and II (Chem 252)
- Advanced Organic Chemistry (Chem 450)
- Strructure and Reactivity of Organometallic Compounds (Chem 425)
- Tutorial: Medicinal Chemistry
- Freshman Studies 100
Here at Lawrence, we pride ourselves on offering individualized education; if there's some topic you'd like to study in depth, I'd be happy to sit down with you and talk about designing a new tutorial with you.