Chemistry Research Academy

Penn Chemistry is a leading center for molecular research and instruction, whose researchers are at the frontier of modern chemistry, tackling important societal challenges. The Chemistry Research Academy provides students with the foundational knowledge to understand cutting-edge research while providing opportunities to hear and learn directly from several research professors and students. Specific topics included in the Academy are derived from departmental research goals. The Chemistry Research Academy builds on the foundational topics typically learned in a first-year chemistry course. Students build on fundamental chemistry topics such as: - Atomic Structure and Periodicity -Bonding Models -Chemistry Reaction Dynamics To learn: -Properties of Nanomaterials -Chemistry of Coordination Complexes -Applications of Chemistry within the field and in Biology, Physics, Engineering, and Medicine -Analytical Techniques, such as Spectrophotometry, chromatography, and polarimetry By engaging in: -Searching and curating information from the chemical literature -Designing and refining science experiments -Discourse within lab groups regarding the relevance and meaning of collected data -Small-group discussion and large-group Q&A with research professors and students -Developing a research project proposal