Dr. Morris’sresearch interests involve the role of metal ion binding in oxidative DNA damage and the development of microfluidic devices for chemical analysis (lab-on-a-chip).
We believe that mentored hands-on research is essential for chemistry and biochemistry students. That’s why you’ll be in the lab early and often, with lots of individual attention from your professors. Meet our faculty and learn more about their areas of expertise and current projects below.
Dr. Morris’sresearch interests involve the role of metal ion binding in oxidative DNA damage and the development of microfluidic devices for chemical analysis (lab-on-a-chip).
Dr. Brandt studies the human estrogen receptor, a protein of great importance in both normal development and in breast cancer. He is also a driving force behind the Interdisciplinary Research Collaborative (IRC), a program that offers students the opportunity to perform paid full-time summer research.
Dr. Weatherman’s research involves making and testing new compounds to dissect the molecular mechanisms of action responsible for the actions of estrogens and antiestrogens in breast cancer and other tissues in the body.
Dr. DeVasher has begun an active research program in green chemistry, developing new methods and technologies that reduce or eliminate the use of chemicals hazardous to human health and the environment.
Dr. Poland’s work centers on the synthesis and development of biodegradable plastics using transition metal catalysts. In particular, focus is given to the synthesis of poly (trimethylene carbonate), PTMC, and various derivative polycarbonates that have use in biomedical applications such as sutures and drug delivery devices.
Dr. Tilstra is a polymer chemist by training, but her current research includes physical biochemistry, studying insulin aggregation, the conditions which cause it and the degree to which it occurs.
Dr. Mueller’s current research focuses on combustion chemistry on biofuels in terms of corrosive issues, lubricity, and emissions; and a computational research project that combines reactant and intermediate structure to calculate rate constants for organic reactions.
Dr. Pflueger’s research involves the development and application of new reactions for organic synthesis. Current projects are focused on utilizing cobalt boride to achieve mild and selective functionalization reactions of nitriles.
Dr. Sunahori's research interests involve reactive small species.
Dr. Kamasah's research intrests include electrochemistry.
Dr. Tuley's research interests include medicinal chemistry, genetic code expansion, and chemical biology.
Because here, you'll do real research driven by your interests with awesome professors.
Learn about the latest happenings, recent research, and more in chemistry and biochemistry at Rose-Hulman.
Science knows no country, because knowledge belongs to humanity, and is the torch which illuminates the world.
You’ll have plenty of opportunities to work in our recently renovated facilities, including a modern biochemistry research-teaching lab, three research labs, fully equipped organic and freshman labs, and an instrument facility.
In the lab, you’ll use equipment such as our Varian Gemini 300 MHz and Anasazi 90MHz Nuclear Magnetic Resonance devices, a Shimadzu GC-2010 Gas Chromatograph-Mass Spectrometer, and High Performance Liquid Chromatography.
Our fully equipped labs and complete stockroom staffed by full-time technicians will give you hands-on experience and undergraduate research opportunities.
Department Head and Professor of Chemistry and Biochemistry Dr. Ross Weatherman has received the Board of Trustees Outstanding Scholar Award and was an American Cancer Society Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of California, San Francisco. He leads a team of high-achieving students in researching the role of estrogen in the development and treatment of breast cancer. Their work seeks to improve existing drugs, resulting in better treatments with fewer side effects. The value of his research has been recognized with grants totaling $2 million from the National Institutes of Health and the U.S. Army. Dr. Weatherman also has developed strong collaborations with the Indiana University School of Medicine and has authored more than 20 peer-reviewed research publications.