Lead efforts on the following programs:Synthesis of self-healing recyclable polymers for realistic, responsive, and reusable medical simulation products.Development of Glacial Kevlar Nanofiber Insulative Technology (GlacialKNIT) wetsuit.Analyzed physical properties and performed biochemical evaluations of melanins to forecast best uses of the biomolecule in advanced materials and coating applications.Development of a tunable biopolymer gel for Luna’s Bioinspired, Degradable, Regenerative Ultra-thin Membrane (BioDRUM) for the in-clinic treatment of tympanic membrane perforations.Demonstrated a proof-of concept method to conserve enzymes for weeks of continuous use for renewable manufacturing processes.Prepared PGS sol-gel matrix to stabilize atropine and scopolamine to be used in autoinjectors as nerve agent intoxication countermeasures.Synthesized poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG)-based hydrogels and waxes to act as a carrier material for encapsulated odors and pigments for Smart Morphing Moulage Medical (SM3) Training Platform.Produced Antimicrobial, Dissolvable, and Stabilizing Excipient (AntiDoSE) microneedle patches for intradermal delivery of the human rabies vaccine.Performed ex-vivo testing to determine the hydration status of excised tissue.

• Polymer synthesis routes/techniquesFree radical, cationic/anionic, emulsion, suspension, ring opening and condensation polymerization reactions• Polymer characterizationGPC, DMA, DSC, TGA, and rheology techniques• Extrusion polymer processing

Chemistry in Art, Integrative Course

Developed a protocol for implementation into a three-week module of a physical chemistry lab course. • The experiment illustrated the importance of standards and standard methods in the lab.• Synthesized (base-catalyzed transesterification) and characterized (Parr 1341 Oxygen Bomb Calorimeter) biofuel samples.

General Chemistry I and II• Trained and helped students use instrumentation, facilitated data analysis, and assessed laboratory notebooks.

Analytical Chemistry• Aided students with navigation through the instrument lab and performance of analytical techniques. Techniques included Raman spectrometry, UV/Vis spectrophotometry, fluorescence spectrometry, and cyclic voltammetry.

Analytical ChemistryStudied the detection of an equine antibiotic, Metronidazole when paired with either Creighton or Lee-Meisel silver colloids.• UV/Vis absorption spectrophotometry • Raman scattering (SERS)

• Equine handling, grooming, preventative health care, appropriate use of restraint, tack fitting, behavioral observation, exercising, and maintenance of horse farm