Combining research in physical chemistry and chemical education

AEI 82

Jack Barbera, jack.barbera@colorado.edu, JILA and Department of Chemistry, University of Colorado, Campus Box 440, Boulder, CO 80309-0440
My doctoral work at the University of Colorado is split between Chemical Education and experimental Physical Chemistry research. My Chemical Education research, mentored by Professor Carl Wieman, investigates the nature of students' attitudes and beliefs about learning chemistry, as well as developing interactive learning tutorials for teaching undergraduate physical chemistry concepts. My experimental Physical Chemistry research, with Professor Carl Lineberger, focuses on the investigation of femtosecond molecular dynamics in anionic clusters via pump-probe spectroscopy. The dual-nature of my doctoral work has allowed me to not only gain valuable problem solving and research skills, but to also develop a greater understanding about the teaching and learning of undergraduates. My experiences will help me in my academic career to have a greater impact on student learning and assist undergraduates in their educational and professional growth. My professional goal is to obtain a tenure-track position at an undergraduate institution, combining these passions.