Chemistry and Biochemistry

Administration
Geoffrey C. Hoops, PhD, Department Chair

Professors
Olujide Akinbo, PhD; John Esteb, PhD; Geoffrey C. Hoops, PhD; Todd Hopkins, PhD; R. Jeremy Johnson, PhD; LuAnne McNulty, PhD; Stacy A. O’Reilly, PhD; Michael Samide, PhD; Anne M. Wilson, PhD

Associate Professors
Mark Macbeth, PhD; Andrew Sand, PhD

Assistant Professors
Rebecca Black, PhD

Senior Lecturers
Paul Morgan, PhD

Lecturers
Carl DeAmicis, PhD; Alicen Teitgen, PhD

Instructors
Tara Benz-Moy, PhD; Sean Lutz PhD

Department Website
www.butler.edu/arts-sciences/chemistry-biochemistry/

Why Study Chemistry or Biochemistry?

Chemistry is often referred to as the “central science.” It plays a role in the discovery of better medicines, in the development of safer chemicals for household use, and in the development of the next generation of electronic gadgets. An essential aspect of chemistry is the necessity of doing these things in a sustainable manner.

The study of chemistry or biochemistry will do more than just impart technical knowledge, ideas, and techniques useful in a laboratory setting. It will allow for experiences that will develop problem-solving abilities and critical-thinking skills. Class and conference presentations, poster sessions, and lab reports will help develop proficiency in communicating in a variety of settings. The skills gained can be applied not just to careers in chemistry, but also to careers in healthcare, law, business, and education, and to the pursuit of advanced degrees in a variety of fields.

Why Study Chemistry or Biochemistry at Butler?

The faculty and staff are dedicated to providing a supportive yet challenging environment for students interested in studying chemistry or biochemistry at the undergraduate level. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for the evolving nature of the chemical sciences. Students are encouraged to pursue undergraduate research with faculty whose expertise spans a wide range of chemistry subdisciplines. Throughout the curriculum, departmental poster sessions, weekly seminars, and project-driven laboratories encourage interaction between students and faculty during and outside class.

Chemistry Student Learning Outcomes

Understand key concepts related to the physical and chemical properties of matter. In particular, we are looking at four broad areas: Synthesis, Kinetics and reactivity, Characterization/analysis, and Thermodynamic and physical properties.
Communicate within and outside the chemical discipline
Develop problem-solving skills through experimentation and analysis
Appreciate the relationships among integrity, science, and society
Understand how to work safely in a laboratory setting.

Biochemistry Student Learning Outcomes

Demonstrate an understanding of the chemical and physical principles of structure, reactivity, kinetics, and thermodynamics as they apply to biological macromolecular polymers, enzymatic catalysis, metabolic pathways, and the regulation of biochemical processes
Acquire and apply specialized language and computer software skills relevant to biochemistry to communicate, in both oral and written forms, within and outside the biochemical discipline
Develop problem-solving skills through experimentation, quantitative and qualitative data analysis, collaborative projects, and the interpretation of scientific literature
Appreciate the relationship between integrity, science, and society
Understand how to work safely in a laboratory setting

Degree Programs

Major in Chemistry (BS, BA)
Major in Biochemistry (BS, BA)
Minor in Chemistry

Students can choose only one of the following three-degree options: Chemistry major, Chemistry minor, Biochemistry major (there is no Biochemistry minor). We strongly recommend that all primary Chemistry majors additionally attain certification by the American Chemical Society. As the most prestigious and most comprehensive option, it will provide flexible career options after graduation. Biochemistry majors can also choose to attain ACS certification.

Programs

Major

Minor

Chemistry Minor

Undergraduate Non-Degree Programs

American Chemical Society Certificate

INTERNAL RESOURCES