PhD, Biochemistry (2016) University of Delaware (DE)
About Me
I'm currently teaching our first year general chemistry and introduction to general, organic, and biochemistry courses. I believe that the chemical content is only a portion of what students should be learning in the classroom and that it¹s also important to foster critical thinking skills that can be applied to any aspect of their life. I try to approach each lecture with a relevant problem that students will have the opportunity to consider while reviewing the material, they can then receive knowledge in relation to the topic during the lecture, and be allowed time at the end of a lecture to reflect on their original thoughts. These problems also provide a useful platform for encouraging an appreciation for the topic of chemistry in everyday life. It is my hope that by teaching through examples relevant to specific classes, students can develop a better fundamental understanding of the topic of chemistry preparing them more effectively for any upper level courses that may be needed. In addition, I¹m interested in exploring the uses of technology outside of the classroom to further students conceptual understanding of the lecture material to further their success in each course.
Research Interests
My research interests are focused on obtaining a structure through x-ray crystallography of the Neutral Cholesterol Ester Hydrolase 1 (NCEH1) protein to better understand its role in cancer and atherosclerosis. I'm also very interested in the pursuit of research in the progression of science education with the application of technology. I'd like to work with new methods to provide quality feedback and interactive learning outside of the classroom to further the conceptual understanding of material learned in the classroom.
Professional Affiliations & Memberships
The American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS); American Chemical Society (ACS)
Noteworthy
Widener Science Faculty and Staff Present at STEM Conference
Itzick Vatnick, professor of biology, environmental science and sustainability, and biochemistry; Louise Liable-Sands, associate professor of chemistry; Meghan Klems, assistant professor of chemistry; and Amy Yarlett, director of exploratory studies, presented at the Association of American Colleges and Universities STEM Conference in Chicago, Illinois on Nov. 8. They presented "A Multidisciplinary Faculty and Professional Staff Learning Community to Support Retention."
