Process Research and Development

Vanderwal Research Group, Department of Chemistry.I have developed a methodology by which readily accessible 5-amino-2,4-pentadienals can be converted to di- and tri-substituted Z-α,β,γ,δ-unsaturated amides. This methodology was extended to the diastereoselective synthesis of polycyclic lactams, and the mechanism of the transformation has been studied in collaboration with computational work. I have begun work on the synthesis of the core of a biologically active natural product exiguaquinol. For publications list and links, see "Publications" section below. For a list of fellowships and awards, see "Additional Information" section below.Presentations: 4. “Progress toward the core of exiguaquinol” Steinhardt, S. E.; Schwarzwalder, G.; Suh, J.; Vanderwal, C. D. Abstract for poster session, Gordon Heterocycles Conference, Newport, RI, June 2011.3. “Progress toward the core of exiguaquinol” Steinhardt, S. E.; Schwarzwalder, G.; Suh, J.; Vanderwal, C. D. Abstract for poster session, American Chemical Society National Meeting & Exposition, Anaheim, CA, March 30 2011.2. “Pericyclic Cascade Reactions of Zincke aldehydes.” Steinhardt, S. E.; Vanderwal, C. D. Abstract for oral presentation, American Chemical Society National Meeting & Exposition, Washington, DC, August 18, 2009.1. “Pericyclic Cascade Reactions of Zincke aldehydes.” Steinhardt, S. E.; Vanderwal, C. D. Abstract for poster session, National Organic Symposium, Boulder, CO, June 9, 2009.

Chemistry DepartmentOrganic Laboratory: Fall Quarter 2006, Fall Quarter 2007, Winter Quarter 2008, Spring Quarter 2008Preparation for General Chemistry Lecture: Summer 2008General Chemistry Laboratory: Summer 2008Organic Chemistry Lecture: Fall Quarter 2010, Winter Quarter 2011, Fall Quarter 2011I have consistently gotten excellent reviews from students through the university's electronic end of quarter course review questionnaires, including most recently:"Sarah is one of the most knowledgeable TAs I’ve ever had in a chemistry course. When the questions came, she had the answers. Very positive as well. Her energy kept me engaged. Even when I needed help, she arranged special office hours for me. Sarah is simply brilliant.""Sarah is an amazing instructor! She breaks concepts and problems down to the basics in order for everyone to understand. The difficult concepts are easier to remember. Going to her discussion sections and office hours really helped me throughout this course. I understand a lot more because of her. She has sparked my interest in Organic Chemistry. I hope she teaches 51C next quarter!"Full copies of student evaluations available upon request.

Tsai Research Group, Chemical Biology

Arvidson Research Group. I assisted with compilation of data collected by the Mars Rovers, Spirit and Opportunity.

Gokel Research Group