Identify a research goal & Apply the Scientific Method
Synthesize sensors & Perform Differential Sensing/Metabolomics
Utilize analytical instruments & Design sensing arrays
Analyze multivariate data using Chemometrics
In the Supra Sensors Stream (SMS), students acquire a unique set of skills taking on the challenge of constructing differential array sensors and applying Metabolomics as chemical tools to study molecules of biological interest in complex mixtures. SMS Students will acquire the following knowledge and skillsets including 1) learning how to identify and write complex organic chemical structures, 2) understanding how to design and synthesize peptide-based sensors, 3) understanding what differential sensing is and how is implemented, 4) learning how to quantify sensor-analyte interactions (e.g., absorption and mass spectrometry) 5) learning how to synthesize, purify and characterize sensors and identify metabolites (e.g., liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry) and 6) learning how to process and analyze multivariate datasets using chemometrics/machine learning.
Spring Semester - CH204 & NSC 109 (3 credits). Students learn wet-laboratory techniques in organic and analytical chemistry focusing on the application of the differential sensing approach, mass spectrometry-based metabolomics and the scientific concepts behind the experiments.
Fall Semester - CH369K (3 credits). Students review lab techniques and work on research projects.
Peer Mentors - CH368L (3 credits). Only SMS students who have previously completed the two semester sequence with the stream. Considered upon application only.
Summer Fellowships - First year students can apply for the FRI Summer Research Fellowship. Summer research is optional and not required to continue in the fall.