UMBC Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry

Electives for Spring 2018

Important Scheduling Change

Both CHEM405 and CHEM405L will be offered in Spring 2018.  Beginning in Fall 2018, CHEM405 will only be offered in spring semesters and CHEM405L will only be offered in fall semesters. CHEM 405 should be taken in the spring of your junior year.

Electives with an asterisk are also approved as an elective for the biochemistry degree. 

CHEM 401 Chemical and Statistical Thermodynamics, Dr. Lisa Kelly

Area: Physical Chemistry. Chemicals react and rearrange. Fluids boil, freeze, and evaporate. Solids melt and deform. Rubber stretches and retracts. Proteins fold. We will study the forces that drive these (and other) processes. Statistical thermodynamics gives us a set of tools for modeling molecular behavior and how it is realized in the macroscopic realm. Most importantly, statistical thermodynamics gives a language for interpreting experiments.    

CHEM 455 Biomedicinal Chemistry*, Dr. Katherine Seley-Radtke

Areas: Organic Chemistry, Biochemistry.This survey course provides an introduction to drug design, discovery and development processes from a biological, organic chemistry and mechanistic standpoint. Basic principles of drug design and development, including modern rational approaches, various drug targets, the design and mechanistic features of various classes of inhibitors and prodrugs, DNA interactive drugs, toxicity, development of resistance, and patent issues will be covered.

CHEM 490, Introduction to Fluorescence Sensing*, Dr. Marcin Ptaszek

Areas: Physical Chemistry, Biochemistry, Spectroscopy.  This course introduces the principles of fluorescence sensing as well as selected applications of fluorescence spectroscopy in analytical chemistry, medicine and biochemistry. Topics include a survey of fluorophores, examples of intracellular sensing of physicochemical parameters and small molecules of biological importance, labeling of biomacro-molecules, fluorescence enzyme activity assays, and the application of fluorescence spectroscopy in diagnosis of various diseases.  The course is partly based on current literature readings.

CHEM 490 Structural Biology*, Dr. Elsa Garcin

Area: Biochemistry. This class comprises lectures, hands-on practicals (computer and in the lab), and paper reading.  In this class, we explore structural biology and how to use the information it provides to understand how macromolecules (proteins, nucleic acids) work, interact, and are regulated. We also delve into structure-based drug design and study specific cases based on recent literature.

CHEM 490 Bioinorganic Chemistry*, Dr. Aaron T. Smith

Areas: Inorganic Chemistry, Biochemistry. This class is designed to give the participant an overview of how metals function in biological systems. The course comprises lectures, presentations, and primary literature as a means to survey cutting-edge advances in the field of bioinorganic chemistry. This class has three units: coordination chemistry of metals within biological systems; physical and spectroscopic characterization of metal interactions within biological systems; and mechanistic studies of metalloenzymes.  

CHEM 490 Advanced NMR Spectroscopy*, Dr. Michael Summers

Areas: Biochemistry, Analytical Chemistry. This course focuses on theoretical aspects of solution-state NMR spectroscopy and their applications to chemical and biological systems. NMR theory is described using principles of classical and quantum mechanical physics.  Emphasis is placed on theories behind methods commonly used for biomolecular structure/function studies, including the nuclear Overhauser effect, sensitivity enhancement of insensitive nuclei, and multi-dimensional NMR methods.

*Appro*Approved as an elective for the undergraduate major in Biochemistry

We are providing a resource that lists opportunities in STEM fields. The following link provides 30+ graduate fellowships:

Graduate Student Fellowships

The following link provides 170+ postdoctoral positions:

Postdoc Positions

Sponsor for this information: Institute for Broadening Participation.

Follow us on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/Pathways-to-Science-120825625433/

Channel is a Biochemistry and Molecular Biology major with minors in Mathematics and Sociology (class of 2018).

During my paid summer internship at the Institute for Regenerative Engineering in Farmington, Connecticut, I was at the University of Connecticut Health Center, School of Medicine in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery. I was a participant in the Research Experience and Mentoring (REM) Program, under the instruction of Dr. Cato T. Laurencin, a recent award recipient of the National Medal of Technology and Innovation, the Nation's highest Honor for Technological Achievement.  My project focused on the Development and Characterization of Human Recombinant Lactoferrin Nanofibers as Scaffolds for Regenerative Engineering. I studied the regeneration of bone, skin and cartilage growth in-vitro and in-vivo, with electrospun nanofibers, coated in various proteins that are found in both blood, like Albumin and in bone, like Lactoferrin. I used various solvents and concentrations to create a stable nanofiber, that would induce increased Bone Cell viability and proliferation, while also activation biodegradation upon cell regeneration. For tests with cartilage and bone, I used hydro gels that were surgically implanted in mice and rats. I was able to gain a confident skill set in Cell Culturing, Cell Suspension, Immunostaining, ALZ Staining, Live/Dead staining, and with using the Scanning Electron Microscope for various imaging. I have also gained skill in using Image J analysis, FTIR analysis, Electros pinning, Titer Blue Assay, and Cross-linking. I was trained to used the Confocal Microscope, with the Velocity Imaging Program, Lab Safety, Animal Safety,  and Rat Implantation and Surgical Stitch Patterns.

How did you find the research opportunity?
I realized that I wanted to have a career in Medicinal Research and noticed that I had an interest in the Musculoskeletal System. I researched African American Cutting Edge Researchers and Dr. Laurencin popped up. I was so intrigued with his accomplishments and research projects. I just knew I needed to work under him and with him. A friend of mine pepped talked me into emailing him that night, (it was 2:00am!), because she knew I'd chicken out when the excitement ended. So, I emailed him and asked him to be m mentor. I also mentioned that I wanted to do research with him during the summer and quite honestly, to my amazement, Dr. Laurencin emailed me back in the next hour and set up a teleconference from there. The rest is history!

How did you learn what you needed to know to be successful in this project? This project has definitely taught me so much about myself and about the world of Science. My Graduate Assistant, Eric James, a recent PhD recipient, was amazing! He quickly realized that this was all new to me, but did not lighten up on his expectations. He made to teach me the reasoning and purpose behind certain research methods and topics, but also introduced me to the Medical Library, PubMed, and other various sources for additional help. Eric also cared about my critical understanding for Medical Research and understanding Medical Research Papers. During that time, there was a Cell Biology and Tissue Engineering Journal Club. Eric made sure that we attended meetings weekly and I even got a chance to present a review of a research paper. I Participated in this  journal club, that was designed to understand molecular aspects of cell biology and tissue engineering scientific literature. Presentations include “Language of Science” and “How to read and understand a science article”.

What was the hardest part about your research?The hardest part about my research would have been the numerous trials with error and repeat. Initially, it was hard dealing with that many negative results. It was quite discouraging, but Eric continued to reassure me in qualitative critic and support. I wouldn't trade those experiences for anything.It was then where I truly learned PERSERVERANCE!

What was the most unexpected thing? I did not know how much of a family a research (SQUAD) could really be. Honestly, I thought research was suppose to be sleep, lab, work, and repeat, but it wasn't, at all! This lab was amazing! My cohort and I went out to eat, to the movies, the mall and even had dinner at my house. Dr. Laurencin even invited us over his house and allowed us to get to know his family and him, in a more personal level. How cool was that?!

How does this research experience relate to your work in other classes? My research correlates to so many classes that I am taking now, for instance, toxicology, with Dr. Fishbein. We talk a lot about the toxins that can affect blood and during my experience with REM, we spoke a lot about the importance of Blood, not just in circulation, but especially for your bone health. I can also relate this course to a previous course, Organic Chemistry II, which depicts mechanisms and various conformational changes due to their affects. This was definitely practiced in lab, as I had to continue testing various solvents, at various concentrations with Albumin and Lactoferrin.

What is your advice to other students about getting involved in research? GET. IN. VOLVED. I can not express how much research really helped anchor me, as a student at UMBC. It's easy to get caught up in classes and GPA, but when you actually practice what you have always wanted to do, there is a rush that happens within you. There's a focus that comes to you. All of a sudden, things make sense. It's no longer school, because my parents say so, its school because I want to be my MENTOR!

What are your career goals? I am planning on going into the Medical Field, also studying Regenerative Engineering with Stem Cell Treatment to Bio-printed Organs and Tissues.

What else are you involved in? I am the President of United Christian Council, a member of the Retriever Leadership Institute, a Mathematics Grader/Tutor, STEM Education Advocate for students in Baltimore City, a Mentor and friend!

Have mentor-led research and want to be featured as UMBC's next Researcher of the Week? email aprilh@umbc.edu

My name is Josh Sattler and I am a Recruiter for ScribeAmerica; a company that hires and trains Medical Scribe for Physicians. This email is to provide information about a truly unique employment opportunity for students interested in careers in medicine. Our company is currently looking to recruit students to work as Medical Scribes in Randallstown, MD.  The scribe will work side by side with physicians assisting with documentation for each patient evaluated by the doctor.  It is an exceptional opportunity for any student interested in medicine to gain first-hand experience following a physician.

The role of a scribe is to closely collaborate with their assigned physician by documenting the history of each patient evaluated, the doctor’s physical examination, the results of laboratory/radiological studies ordered, and the eventual diagnosis and disposition.  Becoming a scribe provides the student with first rate exposure to medical terminology, disease processes, emergency procedures, medications, and the medical decision making process performed by the physicians.

This job is not for everyone; the complexity of the material and fast-paced environment necessitate that only the sharpest and most motivated students succeed as a scribe.  We are looking for dependable and hard working employees that have a desire for an eventual career in medicine, or are interested in learning more about careers in medicine.  There are multiple shifts, both day and night and each shift consists of following a single physician, usually lasting 8-12 hours. It is expected that each scribe can commit to 2 shifts per week for at least 2 years.

Paid classroom & clinical training is provided. The training is extensive and intense. Each employee will have multiple training sessions both in the classroom and the emergency department during which we teach the flow of the emergency room, extensive medical terminology, and appropriate medical/legal documentation.

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This is a unique and exciting opportunity which has demonstrated itself to be excellent experience for students preparing for careers in medicine. 

For more information you may also visit our website www.scribeamerica.com.  Please contact me if you have any questions about our program.

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Joshua Sattler Recruiter Direct: 954.908.8595 | Corporate: 877.488.5479 | Fax: 786.497.4105 joshua.sattler@scribeamerica.com

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Committee on Women in Science, Engineering, and Medicine

Cordially Invites You to a Workshop on

Women of Color in STEM

November 10, 2017
8:15 am – 1:30 pm

(Breakfast available starting at 7:30 am)

The Keck Center
500 Fifth St NW
Washington, DC, 20001

Panelists Include:

• Akua Asa-Awuku, Associate Professor, University of Maryland, College Park, Dept. of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering
• Gilda Barabino, Dean of Engineering at City College of New York
• Sandra Begay, Principal Member of Technical Staff, Sandia National Laboratories
• Sarita Brown, President, Excelencia in Education
• Shawndra Hill, Senior Researcher in the Computational Social Science Group at Microsoft Research NYC
• Shirley Malcom, Head of Education and Human Resources Programs at American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)
• Yolanda Moses, Professor of Anthropology, Associate Vice Chancellor for Diversity, Equity and Excellence, and Executive Director for Conflict Resolution at the University of California, Riverside; former president of CUNY/The City College
• Maria (Mia) Ong, Senior Research Scientist, and Evaluator at the Technical Education Research Centers, Inc. (TERC)
• Joan Reede, Dean for Diversity and Community Partnership, and Professor the Department of Social & Behavioral Sciences, Harvard University

Register Here to Attend in Person

Register Here for the Webcast.

Breakfast and Lunch will be provided.

The School of Mathematical and Natural Sciences at Arizona State University seeks applications for a full-time, tenure-eligible Assistant or Associate Professor in Statistics with any focus area.

General information: 

 The School of Mathematical and Natural Sciences, New College of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences (https://newcollege.asu.edu/mathematical-natural-sciences-degree-programs) at Arizona State University, is an interdisciplinary mathematical and natural sciences unit that encompasses statistics, mathematics, biology, chemistry, computing, forensics, and physics; it prides itself in interdisciplinary collaborations among these research areas. Successful candidates are expected to establish a vigorous, externally-funded program of research; to deliver quality undergraduate and graduate instruction in statistics, and to contribute service to the university and the profession. Faculty can participate in university-wide graduate programs.  The School is committed to recruiting and retaining students and faculty from groups that have historically been underrepresented in the sciences.

Required Qualifications:

Ph.D. in Statistics or a related field, by the time of appointment; evidence of an on-going research program in Statistics and a record of publication and commitment to securing external grant funding consistent with candidate’s experience; commitment and ability to work with a diverse student population.

Desired Qualifications:

Evidence of successful college/university teaching and course development experience; interest in establishing interdisciplinary research programs; practice guiding undergraduates in research and student mentorship; established collaborations with industry partners.

Instructions to Apply

Email application to mns@asu.edu. Application deadline is November 20, 2017, and every Friday thereafter until the search is closed.  Complete applications must include 1) letter of application, 2) a statement describing teaching philosophy and experience, 3) statement describing current and future research plans, 4) statement describing commitment to diversity, 5) unofficial transcripts, and 6) curriculum vitae with your contact information, including telephone number and e-mail address, and 7) contact information (name, address, email, telephone number) for three professional references.   The requested material should be in one PDF document. Only electronic applications are accepted for this position.  Please reference Job# 12131 when applying for the position.

ASU conducts pre-employment screening for all positions which includes a criminal background check, verification of work history, academic credentials, licenses, and certifications.

Arizona State University is a new model for American higher education, an unprecedented combination of academic excellence, entrepreneurial energy, and broad access. This New American University is a single, unified institution comprising four differentiated campuses positively impacting the economic, social, cultural and environmental health of the communities it serves. Its research is inspired by real world application blurring the boundaries that traditionally separate academic disciplines. ASU serves more than 80,000 students in metropolitan Phoenix, Arizona, the nation’s fifth largest city. ASU champions intellectual and cultural diversity and welcomes students from all fifty states and more than one hundred nations across the globe.

Arizona State University is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor and an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other basis protected by law. ASU’s full non-discrimination statement (ACD 401) and Title IX policy are located athttps://www.asu.edu/aad/manuals/acd/acd401.html and https://www.asu.edu/titleIX.