James Magyar
Academic Background
- A.B., Dartmouth College
- Ph.D., Northwestern University
Courses Taught
BIOL 580C Workshop
CHEM 106 Gen Organic & Biological Chem II
CHEM 205 Organic Chemistry I
CHEM 206 Organic Chemistry II
CHEM 250 Topics
CHEM 467 Honors Colloquium in Chem
CHEM 580C Workshop
PHYS 467 Honors Colloquium in Phys
PHYS 580C Workshop
Research Summary
Research in Environmental Chemistry
Physical organic chemistry, organic photochemistry, and the applications of spectroscopy are the core of my research interests. Students have used atomic absorption spectroscopy and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry to study environmental problems. They have studied the photochemical behavior of small organic molecules using methods of physical and organic chemistry. Currently I am interested in applying the techniques of spectroscopy to environmental questions. Atomic absorption spectroscopy allows us to trace the presence of metals in environmental samples. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry offers insight into organic molecules present in low concentrations. Excitation-emission matrix spectroscopy provides insight into the protein and humic acid contributions to the composition of natural waters.
Computer Modeling and Visualization
Chemistry is a visual subject, and images of molecules help us to understand their structure and properties. Recent advances have allowed scientists to model chemical structures and processes in great detail. From the visual display of these computations students can gain deeper understanding of the underlying chemistry. The challenge is to use these tools and results in a pedagogically sound way.
