Middle and High School Structure Elucidation Workshop Set for June 3-4, 2008
The Department of Chemistry's Structure Elucidation Workshop is back this year, poised to host 10 Virginia high school and middle school (center-based gifted) teachers and 20 students for a weekend that exposes students to college-level scientific research and shows teachers how to better prepare and advise students interested in pursuing science degrees in college.
"We're excited to be bringing the workshop back this year," said Tim Smith, director of instrument facilities. "Last year, we had school principals calling to beg extra spots for more teachers to participate, so we expect a full house this year."
Teachers who are interested in bringing students are encouraged to apply early. The program is purposely designed to be broad so that it appeals to a variety of students regardless of age or science background. Students and teachers synthesize a molecule and then conduct experiments and attend lectures over the course of the weekend to figure out what they've made. Last year's molecule was determined to be Benzocaine.
For more information, please contact Tim Smith.