Chemistry and Biochemistry
Department Overview
Our programs prepare students for employment as research chemists in federal, state, municipal, academic or industrial laboratories, and in premedicine as laboratory technicians, industry supervisors and technical sales personnel. Our programs also provide a technical base for chemistry teachers. Graduates also find positions in the environmental sciences, oceanography and related interdisciplinary fields. Many chemistry graduates elect to pursue advanced M.S., Ph.D., pharmacology or M.D. degrees.
B.S., Chemistry
The chemistry curriculum meets the American Chemical Society standards covering the basics of general, organic, inorganic, physical and analytical chemistry, and biochemistry. Undergraduate research leading to publications is strongly encouraged, and many of the laboratory-based courses have a research component built into them. The B.S. program may be completed without an optional concentration, or students can opt for an additional focus in biochemistry, environmental chemistry or forensic chemistry. The B.S. program generally prepares students for a career in chemistry or biochemistry, or for professional school. The B.S. in chemistry is an ACS-approved degree program. The environmental chemistry concentration provides courses that help students study the chemistry of the natural environment by adding geology, biology or atmospheric courses, and it prepares students for graduate studies and/or careers in the environmental industry. The biochemistry concentration provides an enhanced curriculum in biological chemistry for students seeking advanced careers in biochemistry, medicine or health sciences. Limited teaching assistantships are often available for upper-division students, which strengthen leadership and communication skills.
The bachelor’s degrees in chemistry and concentrations in biochemistry and environmental chemistry provide excellent research opportunities and background for undergraduate students through connection to corresponding graduate programs.
The Chemistry and Biochemistry Department is housed in the Reichardt Building, where laboratories are equipped with research-grade instrumentation, providing hands-on experience to students for entry into graduate school or industry. Visit the Chemistry Department for more information.
Minimum Requirements for Chemistry Bachelor's Degree: 120 credits
Learn more about the bachelor’s degree in chemistry, including an overview of the program, career opportunities and more.
Accelerated B.S./M.S., Chemistry
The Chemistry B.S./M..S program with thesis or project prepares students for employment as research chemists in federal, state, municipal, academic or industrial laboratories, and in pre-medicine as laboratory technicians, industry supervisors and technical sales personnel. Graduates also find positions in the environmental sciences, oceanography and related interdisciplinary fields. Many chemistry graduates elect to pursue advanced Ph.D., pharmacology or M.D. degrees. The B.S./M.S. program will assist students in successfully preparing for post-graduate programs by helping students follow a curriculum specifically needed for developing successful licensing school applications or scientific careers while enhancing their critical thinking skill sets, scientific knowledge, writing and presentation skill, and to be overall well-rounded professionals.
The Chemistry B.S./M.S. program is designed to assist students in earning both B.S. and M.S. degrees quicker and with less cost than earning the degrees individually. This is accomplished by having 12 credits of F400- and F600-level courses count as electives in both degrees. Additionally, in the program, students begin to conduct research in a research laboratory at the beginning of their third year. This early research start will allow students to develop technical laboratory skills and to become familiar with their potential M.S. project early on in their program.
To complete the M.S. portion of this program, students will complete a research thesis or a project, in addition to the coursework. This will allow students to tailor their graduate studies to meet their interests and prospective career needs. Students pursuing an M.S. with a research thesis will conduct laboratory research and produce a thesis generally equivalent to a manuscript for a peer-reviewed journal. Students pursuing an M.S. with a project will conduct a research project that may be based solely or partly on literature review/synthesis. This can include writing a review article or a different activity as decided by the student's committee. To ensure students' success in this program, students will need to be advised very carefully by their faculty advisor and committee.
Minimum Requirements for Accelerated Mathematics B.S./M.S. Degrees: 138 credits
Learn more about the bachelor’s degree in chemistry, including an overview of the program, career opportunities and more.
M.S., Chemistry
Graduates in chemistry qualify for employment in many fields as teachers of chemistry; supervisors in industry; technical sales personnel; research chemists in federal, state, municipal, academic or industrial laboratories; in pre-medicine; and as laboratory technicians. The rapid introduction of chemical techniques in all branches of commerce and the creation of many synthetic products have caused substantial growth in the profession. In addition to the traditional employment opportunities in chemistry, well-qualified graduates find positions in the fields of environmental sciences, oceanography, biochemistry, neuroscience, and related interdisciplinary fields. Many recipients of chemistry master’s degrees continue their education to obtain Ph.D. degrees at UAF or other universities. The M.S. program also has concentrations in the departmental focal areas of biochemistry and neuroscience and environmental chemistry. The department also offers Ph.D. degrees in each of these areas.
The department offers well-equipped laboratories housing instrumentation for nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometry, infrared, ultraviolet/visible and atomic absorption spectrophotometry, mass spectrometry, gas chromatography, amino acid analysis and HPLC. Additional equipment for gas chromatography/mass spectrometry, X-ray diffractometry, electron microscopy and liquid scintillating counters is available in cooperation with other UAF departments and institutes.
Minimum Requirements for Chemistry Master's Degree: 30 credits
Ph.D., Biochemistry and Neuroscience
Biochemistry and neuroscience is an interdepartmental program administered by the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry with research support through the Institute of Arctic Biology. A broad range of biomedical research experiences is available, including molecular and cellular neuroscience, proteomics, protein structure-function and molecular toxicology. The Arctic environment provides additional research opportunities in environmental biochemistry, adaptations and molecular genetics. Students seeking an M.S. degree in these research areas should see the M.S. chemistry with a concentration in biochemistry and neuroscience degree.
UAF faculty and affiliate faculty at collaborating institutions provide a rich academic environment encompassing both research and comprehensive course offerings. Students with career interests in biotechnology, pharmaceutical sciences, environmental health, genetics and biomedicine are encouraged to apply. Students are normally accepted with financial support (fellowships, research assistantships and/or teaching assistantships) along with tuition waivers.
Minimum Requirements for Biochemistry and Neuroscience Doctoral Degree: 18 thesis credits
Ph.D., Environmental Chemistry
Environmental chemistry focuses on the chemical processes influencing the composition and chemical speciation of natural systems (air, water and soils), the chemical fate and mobility of contaminants in the environment, chemical processes that affect the toxicity and bioavailability of contaminants, and chemical aspects of contaminant remediation and pollution prevention. The common link is a focus on the underlying chemical structure, reactivity and mechanisms that dictate the extent and rates of environmentally important chemical reactions. Environmental chemistry is a challenging field, requiring core training in physical, analytical, organic and inorganic chemistry, and an understanding of how these disciplines can be applied to complex environmental systems. It also provides a quantitative and fundamental approach to understanding the processes that influence the quality of the environment.
The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry offers B.S. and M.S. via concentrations under the chemistry degree. The program provides education and research opportunities focused on the molecular scale aspects of environmental science. The program defines three tracks to meet a wide range of student interests:
- atmospheric chemistry,
- aqueous/environmental geochemistry, and
- environmental toxicology and contaminant fate.
Students may also design a custom focus area, subject to approval by their advisory committee.
Our faculty are involved in a wide range of projects from field studies of chemical transformation and transport to laboratory and modeling studies of the basic mechanisms of environmental reactions, to the development of novel chemistry useful in contaminant remediation. The program is centered in the Reichardt Building on the Troth Yeddha' Campus in Fairbanks, which houses state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories and computer facilities to support education and research activities. Located in Interior Alaska, UAF is home to numerous research institutes and centers that focus on Arctic science and engineering and provide great opportunities for collaboration and cross-disciplinary studies focused on the chemistry of polar and sub-Arctic systems.
The Ph.D. program in environmental chemistry provides advanced training in the concepts and methods of molecular environmental sciences with the expectation that Ph.D. recipients will be acknowledged as experts in their particular topic of study. This is accomplished primarily through the Ph.D. dissertation, which is a body of independent research that presents new findings on forefront topics related to molecular processes in the environment. The Ph.D. in environmental chemistry prepares students for careers in academia or the public and private research sectors. Graduate students in the environmental chemistry program are typically supported through teaching and research assistantships or fellowships. Students interested in an M.S. degree focusing on environmental chemical problems should see the M.S. chemistry with a concentration in environmental chemistry program.
Minimum Requirements for Environmental Chemistry Doctoral Degree: 32 credits
Programs
Degrees
- B.S., Chemistry
- B.S./M.S., Chemistry
- M.S., Chemistry
- Ph.D., Biochemistry and Neuroscience with Biochemistry Concentration
- Ph.D., Biochemistry and Neuroscience with Neuroscience Concentration
- Ph.D., Environmental Chemistry
Minors
Courses
Chemistry (CHEM)
CHEM F100X Chemistry in Complex Systems (n)
4 Credits
Offered Fall, Spring and Summer
Fundamentals of chemistry with an emphasis on the role of chemistry in environmental and life systems. The role of feedback systems on chemical behavior is illustrated in atmospheric, aquatic, nuclear and nutritional systems.
Prerequisites: Placement in WRTG F111X; placement in MATH F105.
Special Notes: For non-science majors.
Attributes: UAF GER Natural Science Req
Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 3 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
CHEM F103L CHEM F103X Laboratory
0 Credit
Co-requisites: CHEM F103X.
Attributes: UAF GER Natural Science Req
Lecture + Lab + Other: 0 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Non-Graded
CHEM F103X Introduction to General Chemistry (n)
4 Credits
Offered Fall
Introductory chemistry survey course for health science majors and preparatory course for science majors. Topics include: measurement, energy and matter, periodic trends, chemical composition, chemical reactions, solutions, bond theory, phases, oxidation-reduction, nuclear chemistry, problem-solving (applied mathematics), and special topics.
Prerequisites: Placement in WRTG F111X; placement in MATH F105.
Co-requisites: CHEM F103L.
Special Notes: This course fulfills the laboratory part of the natural science requirement and provides preparation for subsequent training in chemistry in CHEM F104X and CHEM F105X.
Attributes: UAF GER Natural Science Req
Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 3 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
CHEM F104L CHEM F104X Laboratory
0 Credit
Co-requisites: CHEM F104X.
Attributes: UAF GER Natural Science Req
Lecture + Lab + Other: 0 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Non-Graded
CHEM F104X Introduction to Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry (n)
4 Credits
Offered Spring
This is the second semester course in the sequence for health-science majors and comprises a survey of the fundamentals of chemistry as applied to biological systems. Topics include nomenclature of organic compounds, organic functional groups and reactions, biochemical processes and pathways, biological macromolecules, and metabolites.
Prerequisites: CHEM F103X; placement in WRTG F111X; placement in MATH F105.
Co-requisites: CHEM F104L.
Attributes: UAF GER Natural Science Req
Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 3 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
CHEM F105L Chemistry F105X Lab
0 Credit
Attributes: UAF GER Natural Science Req
Lecture + Lab + Other: 0 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Non-Graded
CHEM F105X General Chemistry I (n)
4 Credits
Offered Fall, Spring and Summer
This course is an introduction to general chemistry and explores topics to a much greater depth than preparatory courses. Topics include: measurement, energy and matter, periodic trends, chemical composition, chemical reactions, solutions, bond theory, gases, thermodynamics, problem-solving (applied mathematics), and special topics. Students must be enrolled in both CHEM F105X and CHEM F105L to receive full credit.
Prerequisites: B- or better in CHEM F103X or (placement in WRTG F111X; placement in MATH F151X) or permission of instructor and department.
Corequisite: CHEM F105L.
Special Notes: CHEM F105X-CHEM F106X, together with their laboratory components, constitute the standard one year engineering and science major general chemistry course.
Attributes: UAF GER Natural Science Req
Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 3 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
CHEM F106L Chemistry F106X Lab
0 Credit
Attributes: UAF GER Natural Science Req
Lecture + Lab + Other: 0 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Non-Graded
CHEM F106X General Chemistry II (n)
4 Credits
Offered Fall, Spring and Summer
The second semester in the general chemistry sequence. Topics include: kinetics, equilibrium chemistry (including acids and bases, solubility, and complex ion formation), nuclear chemistry, electrochemistry, thermodynamics, and special topics. Students must be enrolled in both CHEM F106X and CHEM F106L to receive full credit.
Prerequisites: Grade of C- or better in CHEM F105X; placement in WRTG F111X; placement in MATH F151X; or permission of instructor and department chair.
Corequisites: CHEM F106L.
Special Notes: CHEM F105X-CHEM F106X, together with their laboratory components, constitute the standard one year engineering and science major general chemistry course.
Attributes: UAF GER Natural Science Req
Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 3 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
CHEM F111X Introduction to Environmental Chemistry of the Arctic
4 Credits
Offered As Demand Warrants
This course introduces students to environmental chemistry through investigating the air, water and soil quality of the Arctic environment as affected by natural and anthropogenic cycling of nutrients and contaminants. The lab component will focus on characterization of natural waters collected around the state. Presented both on-campus and by distance.
Prerequisites: MATH F105.
Attributes: UAF GER Natural Science Req
Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 3 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
CHEM F190 Alaska Statewide High School Science Symposium
2 Credits
Offered Spring
Students employ the scientific method to approach a problem of personal interest. Student work is molded into a research paper delivered orally in a formal scientific presentation for judges with wide-ranging experiences.
Prerequisites: High School student grades 9-12.
Recommended: Research completion, abstract and paper writing/submission, ASHSSS presentation.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 0 + 10 + 0
Grading System: Pass/Fail Grades
Repeatable for Credit: May be taken 4 times for up to unlimited credits
CHEM F202 Basic Inorganic Chemistry (n)
3 Credits
Offered Spring
Introduction to coordination theory, crystal field theory, kinetics and mechanisms of substitutions and redox reactions, unit cells and ionic bonding, periodic law, and descriptive chemistry of selected main group elements.
Prerequisites: CHEM F106X.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 2 + 3 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
CHEM F212 Chemical Equilibrium and Analysis (n)
4 Credits
Offered Fall
Aqueous chemical equilibrium as applied to chemical analysis, separations, spectrophotometry, potentiometry and factors considered in the analytical approach. Lab portion will include introductory experiments in analytical and instrumental techniques.
Prerequisites: Grade of C or better in CHEM F106X; MATH F151X.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 3 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
CHEM F288 Introduction to Chemical Research
2 Credits
Offered As Demand Warrants
Scientific research is creative and engaging when properly planned and executed. This course introduces students to the process of planning and executing a research project. We will begin with an idea, review primary literature, brainstorm project ideas, pose a testable hypothesis, plan experiments and execute a small research project.
Prerequisites: CHEM F212, CHEM F321.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 1 + 3 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
CHEM F314 Analytical Instrumental Laboratory (n)
3 Credits
Offered Spring
A laboratory course focusing on the acquisition and interpretation of spectroscopic and chromatographic data for qualitative characterization and quantitative chemical measurements. Students will learn to design and execute experiments with a variety of instruments, critically evaluate experimental data, and communicate their findings through scientific writing.
Prerequisites: CHEM F212; WRTG F211X, WRTG F212X, WRTG F213X or WRTG F214X; must be a chemistry major.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 1 + 6 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
CHEM F321 Organic Chemistry I (n)
4 Credits
Offered Fall
A systematic study of the more important functional groups of carbon compounds, including their mechanisms of reaction, methods of synthesis, and physical and spectroscopic properties. Lab portion will include an introduction to synthetic techniques and spectroscopy.
Prerequisites: CHEM F106X.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 3 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
CHEM F325 Organic Chemistry II (n)
4 Credits
Offered Spring
A systematic study of the more important functional groups of carbon compounds, including their mechanisms of reaction, methods of synthesis and physical and spectroscopic properties. Lab portion will include synthesis and characterization by spectroscopy.
Prerequisites: CHEM F321.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 3 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
CHEM F331 Physical Chemistry I (n)
4 Credits
Offered Fall
Principles of thermodynamics and kinetics with applications to phase equilibria, solutions, chemical equilibrium and electrochemistry. Course teaches these concepts using both lecture and laboratory instruction.
Prerequisites: CHEM F106X; MATH F252X; PHYS F124X or PHYS F212X.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 3 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
CHEM F332 Physical Chemistry II (n)
4 Credits
Offered Spring
Atomic and molecular structure, and spectroscopy, and statistical mechanics. Course teaches these concepts using both lecture and laboratory instruction.
Prerequisites: CHEM F331; MATH F253X.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 3 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
CHEM F360 Cell and Molecular Biology (n)
3 Credits
Offered Fall and Spring
An introduction to the structure and function of cells. Topics include: the structure and function of cellular components, including proteins, membranes and organelles; understanding how cells communicate; and how information is processed in the cell via DNA replication, transcription and translation.
Prerequisites: BIOL F260; CHEM F105X; CHEM F106X (may be taken concurrently).
Cross-listed with BIOL F360.
Special Notes: Taught asynchronously online in fall, face to face in spring.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
CHEM F402 Inorganic Chemistry (n)
3 Credits
Offered Fall
Symmetry and group theory, molecular orbital theory, solid state chemistry, acids and bases, redox reactions, non-aqueous solvents, descriptive chemistry of some main group elements.
Prerequisites: CHEM F202; CHEM F325.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 1 + 6 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
CHEM F403 Biological Inorganic Chemistry
3 Credits
Offered Fall
Survey of structure, functions, and chemical properties of natural metalloproteins and metalloenzymes, roles of metalloproteins in nucleic acid formation and replication, metal-based medicines.
Prerequisites: CHEM F202; CHEM F449.
Stacked with CHEM F603.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
CHEM F406 Atmospheric Chemistry
3 Credits
Offered Spring Odd-numbered Years
Chemistry of the lower atmosphere (troposphere and stratosphere) including photochemistry, kinetics, thermodynamics, box modeling, biogeochemical cycles and measurement techniques for atmospheric pollutants; study of important impacts to the atmosphere which result from anthropogenic emissions of pollutants, including acid rain, the "greenhouse" effect, urban smog and stratospheric ozone depletion.
Prerequisites: CHEM F332.
Stacked with CHEM F606; ATM F606.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
CHEM F419 Practical Nuclear Magnetic Resonance
2 Credits
Offered Spring
Students will be trained in the basic operation of NMR instruments. Students will spend much of the class time getting hands-on experience on the NMR with student-driven NMR-based research projects. At the end of the course, students will present their projects to the rest of the class.
Prerequisites: CHEM F321.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 1 + 3 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
CHEM F420 Applications of NMR Spectroscopy
3 Credits
Offered Fall Even-numbered Years
Applications of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy in the chemical and biochemical sciences. The course will focus on the implementation and interpretation of NMR experiments for solving research problems. Topics include the basic theory of NMR and one- and two-dimensional techniques.
Prerequisites: CHEM F321.
Stacked with CHEM F620.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
CHEM F434 Chemistry Capstone Laboratory (n)
3 Credits
Offered Fall
A capstone laboratory course with three major components: 1) experiments related to concepts learned in physical, analytical and inorganic chemistry courses emphasizing kinetics, spectroscopy and thermodynamics; 2) computer use in problem solving, data analysis and word processing; and 3) technical writing with emphasis on preparation of papers for publication.
Prerequisites: WRTG F111X; WRTG F211X, WRTG F212X, WRTG F213X or WRTG F214X; CHEM F212; CHEM F202; CHEM F332 (may be taken concurrently).
Lecture + Lab + Other: 1 + 6 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
CHEM F449 General Biochemistry: Metabolism
3 Credits
Offered Spring
This course is an introduction to metabolism at the molecular level and covers the molecular structures and classification of the three major macromolecules: carbohydrates, lipids and proteins. Individual metabolic pathways and regulation will be studied, as well as the big picture and how all the pathways are tied together.
Prerequisites: CHEM F321.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
CHEM F450 Information Storage and Transfer: Molecules and Pathways
3 Credits
Offered Fall
Focuses on the biochemistry of the two principal macromolecules: nucleic acids and proteins. Topics include: nucleotides metabolism, DNA structure and topology, DNA replication, DNA repair and recombination, cell cycle regulation, RNA transcription and processing. Gene expression, translation and protein metabolism. Biomedical relevance and contemporary techniques will be addressed if appropriate.
Prerequisites: CHEM F321.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
CHEM F455 Environmental Toxicology
3 Credits
Offered Fall
Environmental toxicology will focus on the general properties and principles of persistent and/or poisonous (toxic) chemicals commonly encountered in air, water, fish and wildlife. Numerous natural and synthetic chemicals in the environment will be discussed from a global perspective with some bias towards Arctic and sub-Arctic regions.
Prerequisites: CHEM F321 or CHEM F325; BIOL/CHEM F360; COM F131X or COM F141X; WRTG F111X; WRTG F211X, WRTG F212X, WRTG F213X or WRTG F214X.
Cross-listed with BIOL F455.
Stacked with BIOL F656; CHEM F655.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
CHEM F466 Advanced Cell and Molecular Laboratory
3 Credits
Offered Spring
Modern molecular biological techniques including protein and nucleic acid gel electrophoresis, western blotting, cell fractionation, cellular respiration, enzymology and fluorescence microscopy. Lectures will be supplemented with reading from the primary literature. Student projects in this course may satisfy the capstone project requirements of the biological science degree.
Prerequisites: BIOL F360 or CHEM F360 may be taken concurrently.
Cross-listed with BIOL F466.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 2 + 4 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
CHEM F470 Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience
3 Credits
Offered Spring Odd-numbered Years
The cellular and molecular underpinnings of signaling in the nervous system. Topics include properties of excitable membranes, synaptic transmission, neurological integration, the cellular and molecular basis of learning and memory, and pharmacological treatment of neuronal pathologies.
Prerequisites: Two F300-level courses in BIOL or CHEM; MATH F230X or MATH F251X.
Recommended: MATH F252X.
Stacked with CHEM F670; BIOL F679.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
CHEM F474 Neurochemistry
3 Credits
Offered Fall Odd-numbered Years
Covers basic and applied aspects of interneuronal signaling of specific neurotransmitter systems. Lectures will be based on chapters from assigned text as well as recent and historical literature relevant to these topics. Basic concepts introduced in lectures will be applied through guided discussion of original research papers.
Prerequisites: BIOL F115X; CHEM F325; BIOL F417 or CHEM F470 or PSY F335.
Stacked with CHEM F676.
Special Notes: Students will learn to prepare "peer reviews" of selected papers and critically discuss original research.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
CHEM F481 Seminar
1 Credit
Offered Fall and Spring
Introduction to the techniques and style of technical oral presentation generally accepted by professional chemists. Class meets two hours/week, the first hour in closed session, the second, open to the public. Seminar attendance and participation in observing and critiquing presentations by graduate students, chemistry faculty and their peers is required.
Prerequisites: COM F131X or COM F141X.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 2 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Pass/Fail Grades
CHEM F482 Seminar
2 Credits
Offered Fall and Spring
Introduction to the techniques and style of technical oral presentation generally accepted by professional chemists. Class will meet two hours per week, the first hour in closed session, the second, open to the public. Preparation of a 40 minute presentation to be delivered twice, first, to others in the course.
Prerequisites: CHEM F481; COM F131X or COM F141X.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 2 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
CHEM F488 Undergraduate Chemistry and Biochemistry Research
2-3 Credits
Offered Fall and Spring
Advanced research topics from outside the usual undergraduate laboratory offerings. The student will be required to make presentations and turn in a final report. Research areas range from atmospheric chemistry to molecular biology. A substantial level of chemistry or biochemistry background is assumed.
Prerequisites: CHEM F434 or CHEM F314.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 0 + 6-9 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
Repeatable for Credit: May be taken 4 times for up to 12 credits
CHEM F498 Research
1-9 Credits
Lecture + Lab + Other: 0 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
Repeatable for Credit: May be taken unlimited times for up to 99 credits
CHEM F601 Introduction to Atmospheric Sciences
3 Credits
Offered Fall
Fundamentals of atmospheric science. Includes energy and mass conservation, internal energy and entropy, atmospheric water vapor, cloud microphysics, equations of motion, hydrostatics, phase oxidation, heterogeneous chemistry, the ozone layer, fundamentals of biogeochemical cycles, solar and terrestrial radiation and radiative-convective equilibrium. Also includes molecular, cloud and aerosol absorption and scattering.
Prerequisites: Graduate standing.
Cross-listed with ATM F601.
Stacked with ATM F401.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
CHEM F603 Biological Inorganic Chemistry
3 Credits
Offered Fall
Survey of structure, functions, and chemical properties of natural metalloproteins and metalloenzymes, roles of metalloproteins in nucleic acid formation and replication, metal-based medicines.
Stacked with CHEM F403.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
CHEM F605 Aquatic Chemistry
3 Credits
Offered As Demand Warrants
Chemistry of aquatic systems, including the development of equilibrium and kinetic models to understanding the speciation, transformation and partitioning of inorganic chemical species in aqueous systems. Emphasis is on the study of acid-base chemistry, complexation, precipitation-dissolution and reduction-oxidation reactions.
Prerequisites: Graduate standing.
Cross-listed with ENVE F641.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
CHEM F606 Atmospheric Chemistry
3 Credits
Offered Spring Odd-numbered Years
Chemistry of the lower atmosphere (troposphere and stratosphere) including photochemistry, kinetics, thermodynamics, box modeling, biogeochemical cycles and measurement techniques for atmospheric pollutants; study of important impacts to the atmosphere which result from anthropogenic emissions of pollutants, including acid rain, the "greenhouse" effect, urban smog and stratospheric ozone depletion.
Prerequisites: ATM F601.
Cross-listed with ATM F606.
Stacked with CHEM F406.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
CHEM F609 Aqueous and Environmental Geochemistry
3 Credits
Offered Spring Odd-numbered Years
Chemistry of aquatic and terrestrial environments, including thermodynamic, kinetic and structural principles applied to aqueous geochemical systems. Emphasis on aqueous speciation and heterogeneous interactions (e.g., dissolution/precipitation and sorption) involved in the partitioning, transformation and transport of chemical species in the environment.
Prerequisites: CHEM F331 or Graduate standing.
Cross-listed with GEOS F633.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
CHEM F620 Applications of NMR Spectroscopy
3 Credits
Offered Fall Even-numbered Years
Applications of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy in the chemical and biochemical sciences. The course will focus on the implementation and interpretation of NMR experiments for solving research problems. Topics include the basic theory of NMR and one- and two-dimensional techniques.
Prerequisites: Graduate standing.
Stacked with CHEM F420.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
CHEM F631 Environmental Fate and Transport
3 Credits
Offered Spring Even-numbered Years
Examination of the physical properties that govern the behavior, fate and transport of contaminants released into the environment. Topics include air-water partitioning and exchange, organic solvent-water partitioning, diffusion, sorption, chemical and biological transformation reactions, and modeling concepts.
Cross-listed with ATM F631.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
CHEM F632 Molecular Spectroscopy
3 Credits
Offered Fall Odd-numbered Years
Application of quantum mechanics to molecular bonding and spectroscopy. Topics include: applications of lasers to probe chemical reactivity, photochemistry and the detection of trace compounds in mixtures. Variable content. May be repeated for credit.
Prerequisites: CHEM F332.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
CHEM F654 Protein Structure and Function
3 Credits
Offered Spring Even-numbered Years
Contemporary topics in peptide and protein biochemistry. Topics include peptide synthesis, protein modification, comparative aspects of structure, protein engineering, enzyme and receptor function as well as molecular modeling.
Prerequisite: CHEM F449.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
CHEM F655 Environmental Toxicology
3 Credits
Offered Fall
Environmental toxicology will focus on the general properties and principles of persistent and/or poisonous (toxic) chemicals commonly encountered in air, water, fish and wildlife. Numerous natural and synthetic chemicals in the environment will be discussed from a global perspective with some bias towards Arctic and sub-Arctic regions.
Prerequisites: CHEM F449 or one semester each of organic chemistry and cell or molecular biology.
Cross-listed with BIOL F656.
Stacked with BIOL F455; CHEM F455.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
CHEM F657 Molecular Foundations of Gene Expression
3 Credits
Offered Spring Even-numbered Years
The molecular regulation of gene expression in prokaryotes and eukaryotes in the context of development and disease. Major topics include: protein/DNA interactions, structure-function relations of transcription factors, signal transduction, control of transcription and translation, chromatin structure and DNA replication.
Prerequisites: CHEM F449; CHEM F450.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
CHEM F660 Chemical Oceanography
3 Credits
Offered Spring
An integrated study of the chemical, biological, geological and physical processes that control the chemical composition of seawater. Boundary interactions with the atmosphere and lithosphere, biogeochemical cycles and tracers of these complex cycles are examined. The marine chemistry of inorganic carbon is considered in detail.
Prerequisites: Graduate standing.
Cross-listed with OCN F660.
Stacked with OCN F460.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
CHEM F666 Scientific Teaching
2 Credits
Offered Spring Even-numbered Years
This course explores methods for teaching science at the university level. Emphasis is placed on methods of course design, instructional techniques, assessment, and course management that have been shown by research to improve student learning. This course is intended for graduate students who have an interest in science teaching.
Prerequisites: Graduate standing.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 2 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
CHEM F670 Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience
3 Credits
Offered Spring Odd-numbered Years
The cellular and molecular underpinnings of signaling in the nervous system. Topics include properties of excitable membranes, synaptic transmission, neurological integration, the cellular and molecular basis of learning and memory, and pharmacological treatment of neuronal pathologies.
Prerequisites: Two F300-level courses in BIOL or CHEM; MATH F230X or MATH F251X.
Recommended: MATH F252X.
Cross-listed with BIOL F679.
Stacked with CHEM F470.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
CHEM F671 Receptor Pharmacology
3 Credits
Offered Fall Even-numbered Years
Covers basic drug/receptor theory to train students to assess affinity and efficacy of receptor ligands, interpret functional assays and binding results, and critically evaluate original research regarding receptor pharmacology with an emphasis on ligand-gated ion channels and G-protein coupled receptors.
Prerequisites: Upper-division or graduate biochemistry or neurochemistry course.
Recommended: BIOL F417.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
CHEM F674 Membrane Biochemistry and Biophysics
3 Credits
Offered Fall Even-numbered Years
Basic biophysical and molecular processes associated with membrane-mediated events in the context of cellular physiology. Major topics includes biochemical and biophysical characteristics of membrane lipids; structure-function relation of membrane proteins; protein trafficking/targeting; vesicle transport and membrane fusion/exocytosis; the nature of membrane excitability; and the role of membrane in bioenergetics.
Prerequisites: CHEM F449; CHEM F450.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
CHEM F675 Cellular Signaling
3 Credits
Offered Spring Odd-numbered Years
Cellular signaling is vitally important in complex biomolecular systems, development, physiology, and pathology and thus constitutes a major topic in modern medical and pharmacological research. This course concentrates on cellular signal transduction and regulation in higher mammals. Major topics include G-proteins, protein kinases, signaling molecules, lipid mediators, and adaptor proteins.
Prerequisites: Upper division or graduate biochemistry or neurochemistry course.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
CHEM F676 Neurochemistry
3 Credits
Offered Fall Odd-numbered Years
Covers basic and applied aspects of interneuronal signaling of specific neurotransmitter systems. Lectures will be based on chapters from assigned text as well as recent and historical literature relevant to these topics. Basic concepts introduced in lectures will be applied through guided discussion of original research papers.
Prerequisites: BIOL F115X; CHEM F325; BIOL F417 or CHEM F470 or PSY F335.
Stacked with CHEM F474.
Special Notes: Students will learn to prepare "peer reviews" of selected papers and critically discuss original research.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
CHEM F686 Chemical Research Mentoring
2 Credits
Offered As Demand Warrants
This course provides graduate students the opportunity to mentor undergraduates in chemical research within a structured environment, from developing a research idea to executing a small research project. the focus of this course is to refine mentoring skills that contribute to the professional development of maturing chemical professionals.
Prerequisites: Graduate standing in a scientific discipline.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 1 + 3 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
Repeatable for Credit: May be taken 2 times for up to 4 credits
CHEM F688 Biochemical and Molecular Biology Seminar
1 Credit
Offered Fall and Spring
A seminar on various topics related to biochemistry and molecular biology including discussions of recent literature and research results.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 1 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
CHEM F691 Research Presentation Techniques
1 Credit
Offered Fall
Review of recent research in chemistry to expose students to recent findings, methodologies and concepts in a broad range of chemistry and related disciplines. How to present and defend research proposals. Course may be repeated for credit.
Lecture + Lab + Other: 1 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
Repeatable for Credit: May be taken 3 times for up to 3 credits
CHEM F692 Seminar
1-6 Credits
Lecture + Lab + Other: 1-6 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus
Repeatable for Credit: May be taken unlimited times for up to 99 credits
CHEM F698 Non-thesis Research/Project
1-9 Credits
Lecture + Lab + Other: 0 + 1-9 + 0
Grading System: Pass/Fail Grades
Repeatable for Credit: May be taken unlimited times for up to 99 credits
CHEM F699 Thesis
1-12 Credits
Offered Fall, Spring and Summer
Lecture + Lab + Other: 0 + 0 + 0
Grading System: Pass/Fail Grades
Repeatable for Credit: May be taken unlimited times for up to 99 credits
Faculty
Kelly Drew
Professor of Chemistry and Biochemistry
Ph.D., Albany Medical College, 1988. (Neuropharmacology)
kdrew@alaska.edu
907-474-7190
Murie Building, Room 223
Troth Yeddha' Campus
Kriya Dunlap
Assistant Professor of Biochemistry
Ph.D., University of Alaska Fairbanks, 2007. (Biochemistry and Nutrition)
Thomas K. Green
Professor of Chemistry
Ph.D., University of Tennessee, 1984. (Organic Chemistry)
tkgreen@alaska.edu
907-474-1559
Reichardt Building
Troth Yeddha' Campus
William A. Howard
Associate Professor of Chemistry
Ph.D., Columbia University, 1995. (Inorganic Chemistry)
wahoward@alaska.edu
907-474-6019
Reichardt Building
Troth Yeddha' Campus
Sarah Ellen Johnston
Assistant Professor of Environmental Chemistry
sejohnston2@alaska.edu
907-474-5231
Reichardt Building, Room 180
Troth Yeddha' Campus
Jingqiu Mao
Associate Professor of Chemistry
Ph.D., Pennsylvania State University, 2007. (Atmospheric Sciences)
jmao2@alaska.edu
907-474-7118
Reichardt Building
Troth Yeddha' Campus
Brian Rasley
Associate Professor of Chemistry & Distance Delivery
Ph.D., Georgetown University, 1998. (Analytical & Inorganic)
btrasley@alaska.edu
907-474-5029
Reichardt Building, Room 192
Troth Yeddha' Campus
William Simpson
Department Chair
Professor of ChemistryPh.D., Stanford University, 1995. (Physical and Atmospheric Chemistry; Environmental Chemistry; Spectroscopy)
wrsimpson@alaska.edu
907-474-7235
Reichardt Building
Troth Yeddha' Campus
Thomas P. Trainor
Professor of Chemistry
Ph.D., Stanford University, 2001. (Environmental Chemistry and Geochemistry; Surface Chemistry)
tptrainor@alaska.edu
907-474-5628
Reichardt Building
Troth Yeddha' Campus
Maegan D. Weltzin
Assistant Professor of Chemistry
Ph.D., University of Alaska Fairbanks, 2011. (Biochemistry and Molecular Biology)
mmweltzin@alaska.edu
907-474-6527
Margaret Murie Building
Troth Yeddha' Campus
