Department of Chemistry

Materials chemistry is a cutting-edge, interdisciplinary field engaging virtually all areas of chemistry—organic, inorganic, biological, physical, analytical and theoretical—and generating excitement across science, engineering, medicine and other fields. From design, synthesis, and fabrication to analysis and applications, materials chemistry is concerned with discovering, developing and understanding materials, and tailoring their properties for specific uses.  In Chem 7510 we will explore major innovative materials themes, ranging from materials classes such as polymers, mesoporous materials, metal nanoparticles and hybrid systems, to self assembly, hierarchical structure, and nanofabrication, to systems targeted for their electronic, magnetic, optical, catalytic, and energy storage functions.  Particular attention will be paid to nanoscience, medicine, and sustainability themes as reflected by biomaterials, imaging and sensing, and energy, green chemistry and environmental health topics.  This special topics course for graduate students and advanced undergraduates is enhanced in Fall 2009 by ten seminars by outstanding guest speakers in the Chemistry Department, Page Barbour Plastic Project and in-class guest lecture series.  Students from science, engineering and health sciences disciplines may find this literature-based seminar course attractive.