Something about how my graduate advisor did science sunk in:<\/p>\n
“Put everything into it but preserve a balance”, \u00a0“Celebrate success, appreciate setbacks”, \u00a0“Be humble but be excited too.”<\/p>\n
With enthusiasm and energy directed in these ways one is \u2018in the game\u2019, interacting with others, and results may have a big impact.\u00a0 I went on to a productive first-half career working at two national laboratories in Colorado.<\/p>\n
After about fifteen years of atmospheric chemistry research I joined Augsburg Chemistry in the summer of 2006: half my time dedicated to teaching and half to research (\u2018a heckuva deal\u2019).\u00a0 My experience at Augsburg with the synergism of these two roles provides a balance that enhances one\u2019s overall performance and makes science more enjoyable.\u00a0 I remember being impressed with my graduate advisor\u2019s (Dr. Mauersberger) manner, professionalism, and impact, and I see that he exemplified this dual role.<\/p>\n
The chemistry courses I took as a pre-med undergraduate student opened up my graduate school projects to a focus on the physical chemistry of the atmosphere, specifically the formation of the clouds that lead to the polar ozone holes.\u00a0 Since then, my chemistry research has been extended to include chemical kinetics, analytical chemistry, and even some organic chemistry!<\/p>\n
Atmospheric Chemistry: \u201ca kg<\/em> of physical, a L<\/em> of analytical, and aliquots<\/em> of inorganic and organic chemistry.\u201d<\/p>\n Current Projects:<\/p>\n My current research on particle formation is important for urban air quality and global climate issues.\u00a0 We are also measuring a variety of trace species in the atmosphere in field campaigns across the nation and also here from the 4th floor of Science Hall.\u00a0 There are a number of undergraduate students supported by external grants that are doing research on these important topics.<\/p>\n\n