Stevens Institute of Technology 2007-2008 Catalog
 
   Table of Contents
   Academic
Calendar

   Introduction
   Undergraduate
Programs
   Graduate
Programs
  
   School of
Technology
Management
   School of
Systems and
Enterprises
   College of
Arts and Letters
   Interdisciplinary
Programs
   ESL and
Special Courses
   Physical Education,
Athletics, and
Recreation
   Research
Environment
   Student
Services
   Financial Aid and Scholarships
   Student Life
   Stevens Campus
   Policies
   Administrative
Directory
   Faculty
Directory
   Travel
Directions
   Campus Map

The Charles V. Schaefer, Jr. School of Engineering and Science
  

 Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology

FRANCIS T. JONES, DIRECTOR
A.K. GANGULY, CO-DIRECTOR FOR RESEARCH

FACULTY*

Professors

Athula Attygalle, Ph.D. (1983), University of Keele, U.K.
Ajay K. Bose, Sc.D. (1950), Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Francis T. Jones, Ph.D. (1960), Polytechnic Institute of Brooklyn
Marc L. Mansfield, Ph.D. (1981), Dartmouth College
Harold J. Raveche, President of Stevens, Ph.D. (1967), University of California at San Diego

Associate Professors

Nuran Kumbaraci, Ph.D. (1977), Columbia University
James (Jun-Feng) Liang, Ph.D. (1993), NanKai University, China
Svetlana A. Sukhishvili, Ph.D. (1989), Moscow State University
Jiahua Xu, Ph.D. (1992), Meharry Medical College

 

Assistant Professors

Guangxiu Dai, Ph.D. (2003), Iowa State University
Joseph Glavy, Ph.D. (1999) Albert Einstein College of Medicine, NY

Lecturers

Thomas Cattabiani, B.S. (1984), Stevens Institute of Technology
Anju Sharma, Ph.D. (1992), Kundnani College of Pharmacy, India
Yujun Zhao, Ph.D. (2001), Stevens Institute of Technology

Research Professors

Stanley A. Lang, Ph.D. (1970), Brown University, Director, Infectious Disease Chemistry Research, Wyeth-Ayerst Research
Maghar S. Manhas, Ph.D. (1950), Allahabad University, India
Salvatore S. Stivala, Ph.D. (1960), University of Pennsylvania

Distinguished Service Professor

A. K. Ganguly, Ph.D. (1959), Imperial College, London, formerly Senior Vice President, Chemical Research, Schering-Plough Research Institute

*The list indicates the highest earned degree, year awarded, and institution where earned.

INDUSTRIAL ADVISORY BOARD

    Dr. Thomas Salzmann, Vice President, Chemistry, Merck Company

back to top

UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMS

Chemistry

    Chemistry is often known as the central science, bridging the gap between the life sciences and physical science, and ranging from the very practical to the highly theoretical. It is the science of matter - its structure, its properties, and how it changes.

    All around us we see the discoveries of chemistry: synthetic fabrics, aspirin, penicillin and other pharmaceuticals, detergents, better fuels, plastics, and more abundant food. Chemists enjoy the excitement and rewards of discovery and creation.

    Career opportunities exist in research (creating new knowledge or synthesizing new chemicals) or in quality control (testing and analysis) in pharmaceuticals, petroleum, polymers and plastics, paints and adhesives, electronic materials, waste treatment, agricultural chemistry, and foods and fragrances, in addition to many other industries. Chemists are employed in hospitals, as well as clinical, environmental control, and criminology laboratories. Chemistry also occupies a pivotal role in the high-technology areas of bioinformatics, biotechnology, materials technology, ceramics, polymers, and electronic materials. The Stevens program prepares you for employment with companies in these industries, and for graduate programs in chemistry or biochemistry.

    The program is based on a solid foundation in the major areas of chemistry and biochemistry. Additional courses in advanced chemistry are available in those areas in which Stevens has unique strengths, such as polymer chemistry, natural products, medicinal chemistry, biochemistry, computational chemistry, and instrumental analysis. Research is strongly encouraged due to its importance in preparing for a career in chemistry; it also helps develop independence in solving open-ended problems.

    The Stevens chemistry program is certified by the American Chemical Society (ACS). The course sequence for chemistry is as follows:

 

 Freshman Year

 

 

 

Term I

 

 

Hrs. Per Wk.

 

 

Class

Lab

Sem.

 

 

 

 

Cred.

HUM

Humanities

3

0

3

CH 115

General Chemistry I

3

0

3

CH 117

General Chemistry Lab I

0

3

1

CS 105

Intro. to Scientific Computing

2

2

3

OR

 

 

 

 

CS 115

Intro. to Computer Science

3

2

4

MA 115

Math. Analysis I

3

0

3

PEP 111

Mechanics

3

0

3

PE 200

Physical Education I

0

2

1

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL

14(15)

7

17(18)

 

 

 

 

 

Term II

 

 

Hrs. Per Wk.

 

 

Class

Lab

Sem.

 

 

 

 

Cred.

HUM

Humanities

3

0

3

CH 116

General Chemistry II

3

0

3

CH 118

General Chemistry Lab II

0

3

1

CH 281

Biology and Biotechnology

3

0

3

MA 116

Math Analysis II

3

0

3

PEP 112

Electricity and Magnetism

3

0

3

PE 200

Physical Education II

0

2

1

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL 

15

5

17

 

 

 

 

 

 

  Sophomore Year

 

 

 

Term III

 

 

Hrs. Per Wk.

 

 

Class

Lab

Sem.

 

 

 

 

Cred.

HUM

Humanities

3

0

3

MA 221

Differential Equations

4

0

4

CH 381

Cell Biology

3

3

4

CH 241

Organic Chemistry I

3

4

4

PEP 221

Physics Lab I

0

3

1

PE 200

Physical Education III

0

2

1

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL 

13

12

17

 

 

 

 

 

Term IV

 

 

Hrs. Per Wk.

 

 

Class

Lab

Sem.

 

 

 

 

Cred.

HUM

Humanities

3

0

3

MGT 244

Microeconomics

3

0

3

CH 321

Thermodynamics

3

0

3

CH 242

Organic Chemistry II

3

4

4

PEP 222

Physics Lab II

0

3

1

MA 227

Multivariate Calculus

3

0

3

PE 200

Physical Education IV

0

2

1

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL 

15

9

18

 

 

 

 

 

 Junior Year

 

 

 

Term V

 

 

Hrs. Per Wk.

 

 

Class

Lab

Sem.

 

 

 

 

Cred.

HUM

Humanities

3

0

3

CH 341

Bio-Organic Chemistry

3

4

4

CH 421

Chemical Dynamics

3

4

4

CH 362

Instr. Analysis I

3

4

4

PE 200

Physical Education V

0

2

1

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL 

12

14

16

 

 

 

 

 

Term VI

 

 

Hrs. Per Wk.

 

 

Class

Lab

Sem.

 

 

 

 

Cred.

HUM

Humanities

3

0

3

PEP 242

Modern Physics

3

0

3

MA 222

Probability & Statistics

3

0

3

CH 461

Instr. Analysis II

3

4

4

CH 322 

Theoretical Chemistry

3

0

3

PE 200

Physical Education VI

0

2

1

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL 

15

6

17

 

 

 

 

 

Senior Year

 

 

 

 

Term VII

 

 

Hrs. Per Wk.

 

 

Class

Lab

Sem.

 

 

 

 

Cred.

HUM

Humanities

3

0

3

 

Elective

3

0

3

CH 360

Spectra & Structure

3

0

3

 

Elective

3

0

3

CH 496/8

Project/Research*

0

8

3

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL

12

8

15

 

 

 

 

 

Term VIII

 

 

Hrs. Per Wk.

 

 

Class

Lab

Sem.

 

 

 

 

Cred.

HUM

Humanities

3

0

3

CH 412

Inorganic Chemistry

3

4

4

CH 580

Biochemistry I

3

0

3

CH 582

Biophysical Chemistry

3

0

3

CH 497/9

Project/Research*

0

8

3

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL 

12

12

16

    * Project/Research can be either a project (CH 496/7) or thesis (CH 498/9) and can be done either in the junior/senior year or senior year.

A Minor in Chemistry
    A minor in chemistry must include the following courses: CH 115, CH 117 General Chem I + Lab; CH 116, CH 118 General Chem II + Lab; CH 241 Organic Chemistry I; CH 242 Organic Chemistry II; CH 421 Chemical Dynamics, CH 362 Instrumental Analysis I; and either CH 412 Inorganic Chemistry or CH 580 Biochemistry I. This sequence meets the American Chemical Society guidelines for a minor in chemistry. A further requirement for a minor in Chemistry is that at least two chemistry courses approved by the advisor in the Chemistry and Chemical Biology Department which are not part of the student’s major requirement must be included for a minor.

                                                                                                                       back to top

Chemical Biology

    Chemical biology is the application of exact science, particularly chemistry, to the understanding and utilization of biological phenomena. The scientific approach to understanding living systems ultimately leads to the cell - the basis of all living systems. Modern biology focuses on how cells originate, differentiate, multiply, and function, with emphasis on their molecular components, their chemical and physical properties, and their interaction.

    Chemical biology includes genetic engineering, the design and modification of genetic material, and molecular biology. It is an exciting field at the very core of biotechnology. Today's biology laboratory is equipped with sophisticated instrumentation to stimulate muscle tissue and measure action potentials; to determine the size, shape, and electrical charge of protein molecules; and to follow reactions within the cell. Biologists can study biological phenomena under controlled conditions to explore the mechanisms governing growth, differentiation, behavior, evolution, and aging-knowledge that provides a foundation for modern medicine. The field of medicine relies heavily on modern biology.

    The Stevens program in chemical biology provides excellent preparation for the student to pursue a career in medicine, and satisfies requirements for admission to professional schools of medicine, dentistry, and veterinary medicine. Our program features the study of cell and molecular biology, molecular genetics, physiology, biochemistry, biophysical chemistry, organic and physical chemistry, and instrumental analysis. Equipped with this rigorous background - and here is where the Stevens chemical biology program differs from traditional biology and pre-medicine programs - our graduates also find employment in industrial research and pathology laboratories. Many continue their studies at the graduate level in the biological sciences, biochemistry, chemistry, or biophysics.

    The chemical biology program is certified by the American Chemical Society (ACS) option - biochemistry. The typical course sequence at Stevens is as follows:

 

 Freshman Year

 

 

 

Term I

 

 

Hrs. Per Wk.

 

 

Class

Lab

Sem.

 

 

 

 

Cred.

HUM

Humanities

3

0

3

CH 115

General Chemistry I

3

0

3

CH 117

General Chemistry Lab I

0

3

1

CS 105

Intro. to Scientific Computing

2

2

3

OR

 

 

 

 

CS 115

Intro. to Computer Science

3

2

4

MA 115

Math. Analysis I

3

0

3

PEP 111

Mechanics

3

0

3

PE 200

Physical Education I

0

2

1

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL

 

14(15)

7

17(18)

 

 

 

 

 

Term II

 

 

Hrs. Per Wk.

 

 

Class

Lab

Sem.

 

 

 

 

Cred.

HUM

Humanities

3

0

3

CH 116

General Chemistry II

3

0

3

CH 118

General Chemistry Lab II

0

3

1

CH 281

Biology and Biotechnology

3

0

3

MA 116

Calculus II

3

0

3

PEP 112

Electricity and Magnetism

3

0

3

PE 200

Physical Education II

0

2

1

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL 

 

15

5

17

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Sophomore Year

 

 

 

Term III

 

 

Hrs. Per Wk.

 

 

Class

Lab

Sem.

 

 

 

 

Cred.

HUM

Humanities

3

0

3

MA 221

Differential Equations

4

0

4

CH 381

Cell Biology

3

3

4

CH 241

Organic Chemistry I

3

4

4

PEP 221

Physics Lab I

0

3

1

PE 200

Physical Education III

0

2

1

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL

13

12

17

 

 

 

 

 

Term IV

 

 

Hrs. Per Wk.

 

 

Class

Lab

Sem.

 

 

 

 

Cred.

HUM

Humanities

3

0

3

CH 382

Biological Systems

3

3

4

CH 321

Thermodynamics

3

0

3

CH 242

Organic Chemistry II

3

4

4

PEP 222

Physics Lab II

0

3

1

PE 200

Physical Education IV

0

2

1

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL

 

12

12

16

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Junior Year

 

 

 

Term V

 

 

Hrs. Per Wk.

 

 

Class

Lab

Sem.

 

 

 

 

Cred.

HUM

Humanities

3

0

3

CH 484

Intro. to Molecular Genetics

3

3

4

CH 421

Chemical Dynamics

3

4

4

CH 362

Instr. Analysis I

3

4

4

PE 200

Physical Education V

0

2

1

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL

12

13

16

 

 

 

 

 

Term VI

 

 

Hrs. Per Wk.

 

 

Class

Lab

Sem.

 

 

 

 

Cred.

HUM

Humanities

3

0

3

PEP 242

Modern Physics

3

0

3

CH 461

Instr. Analysis II

3

4

4

CH 580

Biochemistry I

3

0

3

MA 222

Probability & Statistics

3

0

3

PE 200

Physical Education VI

0

2

1

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL

 

15

6

17

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Senior Year

 

 

 

Term VII

 

 

Hrs. Per Wk.

 

 

Class

Lab

Sem.

 

 

 

 

Cred.

HUM

Humanities

3

0

3

 

Elective

3

0

3

CH 583

Physiology

3

0

3

CH 681

Biochemistry II*

3

0

3

CH 496/8

Project/Research*

0

8

3

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL

12

8

15

 

 

 

 

 

Term VIII

 

 

Hrs. Per Wk.

 

 

Class

Lab

Sem.

 

 

 

 

Cred.

HUM

Humanities

3

0

3

MGT 244

Microeconomics

3

0

3

CH 686

Immunology*

3

0

3

 

Elective**

3

0

3

CH 582

Biophysical Chemistry

3

0

3

CH 497/9

Project/Research*

0

8

3

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL

15

8

18

    * With the approval of the advisor.
    ** For American Chemical Society certification, CH 412 is required.

A Minor in Chemical Biology
    A minor in chemical biology includes at least the following courses: CH 115, CH 117 General Chemistry I + Lab; CH 116, CH 118 General Chemistry II + Lab; CH 241 Organic Chemistry I; CH 242 Organic Chemistry II; CH 421 Chemical Dynamics; CH 281 Biology and Biotechnology; CH 381 Cell Biology; CH 382 Biological Systems; CH 580 Biochemistry I; and CH 484 Introduction to Molecular Genetics. A further requirement is that the student's minor program must include two chemical biology courses which are not part of the student's major program.

                                                                                                                       back to top

Accelerated Chemical Biology Program

    If you are pursuing the special combined degree program in medicine or dentistry, you are enrolled in the Accelerated Chemical Biology Program. A heavy course load is required during the three years of the program at Stevens, and completion of the B.S. degree requirements relies on transfer credit from the first year of study at the affiliated medical/dental school. Thus, enrolling in the Accelerated Chemical Biology Program is restricted to students admitted to these special programs.

 

 

 Freshman Year

 

 

 

Term I

 

 

Hrs. Per Wk.

 

 

Class

Lab

Sem.

 

 

 

 

Cred.

HUM

Humanities

3

0

3

CH 115

General Chemistry I

3

0

3

CH 117

General Chemistry Lab I

0

3

1

CS 105

Intro. to Scientific Computing

2

2

3

OR

 

 

 

 

CS 115

Intro. to Computer Science

3

2

4

MA 115

Math Analysis I

3

0

3

PEP 111

Mechanics

3

0

3

PE 200

Physical Education I

0

2

1

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL 

14(15)

7

17(18)

 

 

 

 

 

Term II

 

 

Hrs. Per Wk.

 

 

Class

Lab

Sem.

 

 

 

 

Cred

HUM

Humanities

3

0

3

CH 116

General Chemistry II

3

0

3

CH 118

General Chemistry Lab II

0

3

1

CH 281

Biology and Biotechnology

3

0

3

MA 116

Calculus II

3

0

3

PEP 112

Electricity and Magnetism

3

0

3

PE 200

Physical Education II

0

2

1

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL 

15

5

17

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Sophomore Year

 

 

 

Term III

 

 

Hrs. Per Wk.

 

 

Class

Lab

Sem.

 

 

 

 

Cred.

HUM

Humanities

3

0

3

MA 221

Differential Equations

4

0

4

CH 381

Cell Biology

3

3

4

CH 241

Organic Chemistry I

3

4

4

PEP 221

Physics Lab I

0

3

1

MGT

Economics

3

0

3

PE 200

Physical Education III

0

2

1

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL 

16

12

20

 

 

 

 

 

Term IV

 

 

Hrs. Per Wk.

 

 

Class

Lab

Sem.

 

 

 

 

Cred.

HUM

Humanities

3

0

3

CH 382

Biological Systems

3

3

4

CH 321

Thermodynamics

3

0

3

CH 242

Organic Chemistry II

3

4

4

PEP 222

Physics Lab II

0

3

1

PE 200

Physical Education IV

0

2

1

 

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL

12

12

16

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Junior Year

 

 

 

Term V

 

 

Hrs. Per Wk.

 

 

Class

Lab

Sem.

 

 

 

 

Cred.

HUM

Humanities

3

0

3

HUM

Humanities

3

0

3

CH 484

Intro. to Molecular Genetics

3

3

4

CH 421

Chemical Dynamics

3

4

4

CH 362

Instr. Analysis I

3

4

4

PE 200

Physical Education V

0

2

1

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL 

15

13

19

 

 

 

 

 

Term VI

 

 

Hrs. Per Wk.

 

 

Class

Lab

Sem.

 

 

 

 

Cred.

HUM

Humanities

3

0

3

HUM

Humanities

3

0

3

PEP 242

Modern Physics

3

0

3

CH 461

Instr. Analysis II

3

4

4

CH 580

Biochemistry I

3

0

3

CH 686

Immunology

3

0

3

PE 200

Physical Education VI

0

2

1

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL 

18

6

20

    Two years of Summer Research are expected for participants in this program.
    The Senior Year is completed at the medical/dental school.

                                                                                                                       back to top

Bioinformatics
    Huge amounts of data are being generated by the new and powerful techniques for determining the structures of biological molecules and manipulating biomolecular sequences. Bioinformatics makes use of mathematical and computer science techniques to process the information that is pouring out of laboratories so it can be used for further scientific advances. The Stevens Bioinformatics Program is built on the foundations of chemical biology. After the first two years in the Chemical Biology Program, the Bioinformatics student begins replacing certain electives with mathematics and computer science courses, provided that CS 115 is taken in the freshman year.

The third and fourth years of the Bioinformatics concentration are given below:

 

 Junior Year

 

 

 

Term V

 

 

Hrs. Per Wk.

 

 

Class

Lab

Sem.

 

 

 

 

Cred.

HUM

Humanities

3

0

3

CH 484

Intro. to Molecular Genetics

3

3

4

CH 421

Chemical Dynamics

3

4

4

CH 362

Instr. Analysis I

3

4

4

CS 284 Data Structures & Algorithms I 3 0 3

PE 200

Physical Education V

0

2

1

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL 

15

13

19

 

 

 

 

 

Term VI

 

 

Hrs. Per Wk.

 

 

Class

Lab

Sem.

 

 

 

 

Cred.

HUM

Humanities

3

0

3

PEP 242

Modern Physics

3

0

3

CH 461

Instr. Analysis II

3

4

4

CH 580

Biochemistry I

3

0

3

MA 222

Probability & Statistics

3

0

3

PE 200

Physical Education VI

0

2

1

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL 

15

6

17

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Senior Year

 

 

 

Term VII

 

 

Hrs. Per Wk.

 

 

Class

Lab

Sem.

 

 

 

 

Cred.

HUM

Humanities

3

0

3

MA 134

Discrete Mathematics

3

0

3

CS 385

Data Structures and Algorithms II

3

0

3

MGT 244

Microeconomics

3

0

3

CH 583

Physiology

3

0

3

CH 681

Biochemistry II

3

0

3

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL 

18

0

18

 

 

 

 

 

Term VIII

 

 

Hrs. Per Wk.

 

 

Class

Lab

Sem.

 

 

 

 

Cred.

HUM

Humanities

3

0

3

CS 442

Database Management Systems

3

0

3

CH 582

Biophysical Chemistry

3

0

3

CH 668

Computational Biology*

3

0

3

CH 686

Immunology

3

0

3

CH 497/9

Project/Research*

0

8

3

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL 

15

8

18

 

Bioanalytical Chemistry
    The extreme complexity - and fragility - of biological molecules has made it necessary to develop special techniques and instrumentation for their detection and analysis. These methods were employed in the Human Genome Project, and have become vital in drug development efforts and in the field called Chemical Ecology. The bioanalytical chemist is a valued scientist in medical and biomedical research and in the pharmaceutical, flavors, and fragrances industries.     

    The program in Bioanalytical Chemistry is built on the foundations of Chemical Biology. After the first two years in the regular Chemical Biology Program, the Bioanalytical Chemistry student begins concentrating on special techniques such as mass spectrometry, nuclear magnetic resonance, and separations. The Third and Fourth Years of the program are shown below:

 

 Junior Year

 

 

 

Term V

 

 

Hrs. Per Wk.

 

 

Class

Lab

Sem.

 

 

 

 

Cred.

HUM

Humanities

3

0

3

CH 360

Spectra & Structure

3

0

3

CH 421

Chemical Dynamics

3

4

4

CH 362

Instr. Analysis I

3

4

4

CH 484 Intro. to Molecular Genetics 3 3 4

PE 200

Physical Education V

0

2

1

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL

 

15

13

19

 

 

 

 

 

Term VI

 

 

Hrs. Per Wk.

 

 

Class

Lab

Sem.

 

 

 

 

Cred.

HUM

Humanities

3

0

3

PEP 242

Modern Physics

3

0

3

CH 461

Instr. Analysis II

3

4

4

CH 580

Biochemistry I

3

0

3

MA 222

Probability & Statistics

3

0

3

PE 200

Physical Education VI

0

2

1

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL

 

15

6

17

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Senior Year

 

 

 

Term VII

 

 

Hrs. Per Wk.

 

 

Class

Lab

Sem.

 

 

 

 

Cred.

HUM

Humanities

3

0

3

CH 666

Modern Mass Spectrometry*

3

0

3

CH 662

Separation Methods*

3

0

3

MGT 244

Microeconomics

3

0

3

CH 496/8

Project/Research

0

8

3

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL

 

12

8

15

 

 

 

 

 

Term VIII

 

 

Hrs. Per Wk.

 

 

Class

Lab

Sem.

 

 

 

 

Cred.

HUM

Humanities

3

0

3

CH 660

Adv. Instrumental Analysis*

3

0

3

CH 582

Biophysical Chemistry

3

0

3

CH 412

Inorganic Chemistry

3

4

4

CH 497/9

Project/Research*

0

8

3

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL

 

12

12

16

back to top

Special Programs
    The Accelerated Chemical Biology program gives you the opportunity to earn the B.S. degree at Stevens and the M.D. degree at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey (UMDNJ)-New Jersey Medical School, or the D.M.D. degree at UMDNJ-New Jersey Dental School, in a total of seven years.
    More information on this program can be found in the pre-professional and Accelerated Programs section of this catalog. You will also find a discussion of a program called Undergraduate Projects in Technology and Medicine (UPTAM), which is available to specially selected Stevens undergraduates.

Interdisciplinary Program in Computational Science
    For students interested in interdisciplinary science and engineering, Stevens offers an undergraduate computational science program. Computational science is a new field in which techniques from mathematics and computer science are used to solve scientific and engineering problems. See the description of the Program in Computational Science in the Interdisciplinary Programs section.

back to top

GRADUATE PROGRAMS

    Graduate study in the chemical sciences offers research opportunities of great variety and scope. It offers, too, an unusual receptivity to different kinds of research interests, from the most immediate and practical to the highly theoretical.

    The Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology includes faculty and programs in chemistry, as well as in the emerging area of chemical biology. In fact, Stevens pioneered this area with the first undergraduate program in Chemical Biology in the late 1970s. Chemists and biologists share instruments and collaborate on joint educational and research programs. The close proximity of these disciplines encourages cooperation and provides access to equipment and expertise not usually available within a single department.

    The Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degrees are offered in chemistry or chemical biology with concentrations in physical chemistry, organic chemistry, analytical chemistry, polymer chemistry, chemical biology, and bioinformatics. Admission to the graduate program in chemistry requires an undergraduate education in chemistry. Admission to the chemical biology program requires either an undergraduate degree in chemistry with strong biology background or an undergraduate degree in biology with strong chemistry background.

    Polymer synthesis and characterization, methods of instrumental analysis, medicinal chemistry, and structural chemistry (theoretical, as well as experimental) are areas of chemistry in which the department has attained international recognition. Research in chemical biology focuses on protein trafficking through membranes, cell signaling pathways involved in cancer and tissue repair, drug encapsulation and dosing, and proteomics.

    The department is the home for the Center for Mass Spectrometry - one of the best equipped mass spectrometry laboratories anywhere. Included are Electrospray, MALDI, GC/LC MS, and other new techniques used in pioneering work in chemistry and biology.

    The department is housed in a modern building with well-equipped laboratories for tissue-culture work, protein separation and analysis, and small animal studies. State-of-the-art instrumentation is also available, including confocal microscopy, PCR, radio-isotope labeling, fluorometry, double-beam spectrophotometry, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance and high performance liquid chromatography, thermal analysis, and electron tunneling microscopy.

    Periodically, the department invites a preeminent scientist for a sequence of informal talks and formal lectures. Previous lecturers have included Kenneth Pitzer and Herman Mark, and the Nobelists William Lipscomb, Sir Derek Barton, Ilya Prigogine, Arthur Kornberg, Rosalyn Yalow, Sidney Altman, and George Palade. Periodically, The Stivala Lectures in Chemistry invites an outstanding scientist for a day of lectures and discussions on timely topics in chemistry. Dr. James Cooper, M.D., established this lecture series in memory of his father Charles Cooper, who was a close friend of Professor Salvatore Stivala, a professor of chemistry and chemical engineering at Stevens.

    The department believes the vitality of an academic community depends on interaction among its members, and that teaching and learning are essential activities for students and professors alike.

                                                                                                                       back to top

Master’s Programs
    Thirty graduate credits in an approved plan of study, that include the following core courses, are required for the Master of Science degree. Areas of concentration include analytical chemistry, chemical biology, organic chemistry, physical chemistry and polymer chemistry, and others can be designed. Research may be included in master's degree programs, either as a Special Research Problem (CH 800) or a Master's Thesis (CH 900), and is counted towards the 30 credits required for the degree. All fellows and teaching or research assistants are expected to complete a thesis.

Core Courses in Chemistry
    (Prerequisites may be required)
    CH 681 Biochemistry II
    CH 687 Molecular Genetics
    CH 690 Cellular Signal Transduction
    One Advanced Chemistry Course (with recommendation of research advisor)

                                                                                                                       back to top

Core Courses in Chemical Biology
    CH 561 Instrumental Methods of Analysis
    CH 580 Biochemistry I
    CH 582 Biophysical Chemistry
    CH 640 Advanced Organic and Heterocyclic Chemistry I
    CH 668 Computational Biology
    CH 687 Molecular Genetics
  

    
Elective Courses
    Additional courses are chosen depending on the student's interests and background. The advisor must approve all elective courses.

Doctoral Programs in Chemistry and in Chemical Biology
    Admission to the doctoral program is based on 1) GRE score and 2) reasonable evidence that the student will prove capable of specialization on a broad intellectual foundation. Specifically, students will be admitted to the doctoral program only if the Admissions Committee feels that he/she is reasonably well-prepared for the Qualifying Examinations in Chemistry or Chemical Biology, which must be passed within a 10-month period after acquiring 30 graduate credits. Applicants with good academic records who lack this level of preparation may be admitted initially to the M.S. program.

A student enrolled in the master’s program in Chemistry or Chemical Biology must request admission to the doctoral program through the department’s Admissions Committee. Continuation in the doctoral program is contingent on passing the Qualifying Examinations, Preliminary Examination, and meeting all other requirements.

Elective Options

The following are typical examples of specialization areas:

Analytical Chemistry
CH 650 Spectra and Structure Determination
CH 660 Advanced Instrumental Analysis
CH 661 Advanced Instrumental Analysis Laboratory
CH 662 Separation Methods in Analytical and Organic Chemistry
CH 666 Modern Mass Spectrometry

Chemical Biology
CH 580 Biochemistry I
CH 678 Experimental Microbiology
CH 681 Biochemistry II – Bio-Molecular Structure and Function
CH 682 Biochemical Laboratory Techniques
CH 684 Molecular Biology Laboratory Techniques
CH 685 Medicinal Chemistry
CH 686 Immunology
CH 688 Methods in Chemical Biology
CH 690 Cellular Signal Transduction
CH 780 Selected Topics in Biochemistry I
CH 782 Selected Topics in Bioorganic Chemistry

Organic Chemistry
CH 640 Advanced Organic and Heterocyclic Chemistry I
CH 641 Advanced Organic and Heterocyclic Chemistry II
CH 642 Synthetic Organic Chemistry
CH 646 Chemistry of Natural Products
CH 650 Spectra and Structure Determination
CH 685 Medicinal Chemistry

Physical Chemistry
CH 620 Chemical Thermodynamics and Kinetics
CH 621 Quantum Chemistry
CH 622 Molecular Spectroscopy
CH 623 Chemical Kinetics
CH 624 Statistical Mechanics
CH 650 Spectra and Structure Determination

Polymer Science
CH 670 Polymer Synthesis
CH 671 Physical Chemistry of Polymers
CH 672 Macromolecules in Modern Technology
CH 674 Polymer Functionality

Other Areas of Specialization
Programs in other areas of specialization, such as Biochemistry, etc., can be designed by including the appropriate courses in that area and completing a research topic in the sub-discipline as approved by the research advisor.

Electives
To complete the course requirements for the degree, a student may choose additional courses with the approval of the advisor. Special courses are frequently offered under the title of Special (or Selected) Topics, which can be included with the permission of the advisor. Some courses are offered as reading courses, with no designated lecture schedule.

Degree Requirements

Research Proposals
All doctoral students in the Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology must present two written research proposals and defend them in an oral examination.

Language Proficiency
The Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology no longer requires a foreign language examination for the Ph.D. degree. However, every student is required to possess a high level of proficiency in written and spoken English. International students are required to take an English proficiency examination before beginning graduate course work, and one or more remedial English courses (without credit), if necessary. The Department will not waive this requirement for any student.

Doctoral Dissertation
The policies and regulations governing the doctoral dissertation are described in detail in the Stevens Catalog and the Manual for Graduate Students.
    

                                                                                                                     back to top

Graduate Certificate Programs
    In addition to the degree programs, the department currently offers seven Graduate Certificate Programs. The courses may be used towards a master’s degree. Each Graduate Certificate Program is a self-contained and highly-focused collection of courses carrying 12 or more graduate credits.

Analytical Chemistry
    CH 561 Instrumental Methods of Analysis
    CH 660 Advanced Instrumental Analysis
    CH 662 Separation Methods in Analytical and Organic Chemistry
    CH 666 Modern Mass Spectrometry

Biomedical Chemistry
    CH 642 Synthetic Organic Chemistry
    CH 646 Chemistry of Natural Products

    and two of the following courses (with advisor approval):
    CH 647 Chemistry and Pharmacology of Drugs
    CH 685 Selected Topics in Medicinal Chemistry
    CH 800 Special Research Problems in Chemistry

Polymer Chemistry
    CH 670 Synthetic Polymer Chemistry
    CH 671 Physical Chemistry of Polymers
    CH 672 Macromolecules in Modern Technology
    CH 673 Special Topics in Polymer Chemistry
    CH 674 Polymer Functionality

    The above Graduate Certificate Programs are regular graduate courses and are part of the Master of Science in Chemistry program.

Bioinformatics
   
CH 664 Computer Methods in Chemistry
    CH 668 Computational Biology   
    CH 681 Biochemistry II
    CH 760 Chemoinformatics or CS 580 The Logic of Program Design

Chemical Biology
    CH 580 Biochemistry I
    CH 681 Biochemistry II
    CH 686 Immunology
    CH 687 Molecular Genetics

Chemical Physiology
    CH 580 Biochemistry I
    CH 583 Physiology
    CH 684 Molecular Biology Laboratory Techniques

    and one of the following courses with the approval of your program advisor:
    CH 686 Immunology
    CH 690 Cellular Signal Transduction
    CH 800 Special Research Problems in Chemistry

Laboratory Methods in Chemical Biology
    CH 561 Instrumental Methods of Analysis
    CH 682 Biochemical Laboratory Techniques
    CH 684 Molecular Biology Laboratory Techniques
    CH 689 Cell Biology Laboratory Techniques

    The above Graduate Certificate Programs are regular graduate courses and are part of the Master of Science in Chemical Biology program.

UNDERGRADUATE COURSES

CH 115 General Chemistry I
(3-0-3)

Atomic structure and periodic properties, stoichiometry, properties of gases, thermochemistry, chemical bond types, intermolecular forces, liquids and solids, chemical kinetics, and introduction to organic chemistry and biochemistry. Corequisite: CH 117.

CH 116 General Chemistry II
(3-0-3)

Phase equilibria, properties of solutions, chemical equilibrium, strong and weak acids and bases, buffer solutions and titrations, solubility, thermodynamics, electrochemistry, properties of the elements, and nuclear chemistry. Prerequisite: CH 115. Corequisite: CH 118.

CH 117 General Chemistry Laboratory I
(0-3-1)

Laboratory work to accompany CH 115: experiments of atomic spectra, stoichiometric analysis, qualitative analysis, and organic and inorganic syntheses, and kinetics. Corequisite: CH 115

CH 118 General Chemistry Laboratory II
(0-3-1)

Laboratory work to accompany CH 116: analytical techniques properties of solutions, chemical and phase equilibria, acid-base titrations, thermodynamic properties, electrochemical cells, and properties of chemical elements. Prerequisites: CH 115, CH 117. Corequisite: CH 116.


CH 189 Seminar in Chemistry and Biology
(1-0-1)

Introduction to chemistry as the "central science" and its impact on other fields, particularly biology. Areas to be explored include the interaction of radiation with matter, the effect of symmetry on chemical and physical properties of molecules, hyphenated methods of analysis, the chemistry of biological signals, biochemical cycles, the physiology of exercise, and chaotic reactions. By invitation only. Corequisite: CH 115 or CH 116.

CH 241 Organic Chemistry I
(3-4-4)

Principles of descriptive organic chemistry, structural theory, reactions of aliphatic compounds, and stereochemistry. Laboratory includes introduction to organic reaction and separation techniques, reactions of functional groups, and synthesis. Prerequisites: CH 116, CH 118.

CH 242 Organic Chemistry II
(3-4-4)

Continuation of CH 241. Reactions of aromatic compounds; infrared and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy; and laboratory work in synthesis, spectroscopy, and chromatographic separation techniques. Prerequisite: CH 241.

CH 281 Biology and Biotechnology
(3-0-3)

Biological principles and their physical and chemical aspects are explored at the cellular and molecular level. Major emphasis is placed on cell structure, the processes of energy conversion by plant and animal cells, genetics and evolution, and applications to biotechnology.

CH 282 Introductory Biology Laboratory
(0-3-1)

An introductory laboratory illustrating basic techniques and principles of modern biology by means of laboratory experiments and simulated experiments. This laboratory does not satisfy medical school admission requirements. Prerequisite or Corequisite: CH 281.

CH 321 Thermodynamics
(3-0-3)

Laws of thermodynamics, thermodynamic functions, and the foundations of statistical thermodynamics. The chemical potential is applied to phase equilibria, chemical reaction equilibria, and solution theory, for both ideal and real systems. Prerequisites: CH 116, MA 116.

CH 322 Theoretical Chemistry
(3-0-3)

Quantum mechanics of molecular systems are developed. The techniques of approximation methods are employed for molecular binding and spectroscopic transitions. Examples are taken from infrared, visible, ultraviolet, microwave, and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Prerequisites: CH 116, MA 221.

CH 341 Biological Chemistry
(3-4-4)

The content of this course alternates between the chemistry of natural products and methods and mechanisms of synthetic organic chemistry. Prerequisite: CH 242.

CH 360 Spectra and Structure
(3-0-3)

Interpretation of infrared, ultraviolet, nuclear magnetic resonance, and mass spectra. Emphasis is on the use of these spectroscopic methods in identification and structure determination of organic compounds. Prerequisite: CH 241.

CH 362 Instrumental Analysis I
(3-4-4)

Experimental approach to spectroscopy. Topics include: Fourier Transform infrared spectroscopy, ultraviolet, visible and fluorescence measurements, atomic absorption spectroscopy, and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Prerequisites: CH 116, CH 118, and CH 241.

CH 381 Cell Biology
(3-3-4)

The structure and function of the cell and its subcellular organelles are studied. Biological macromolecules, enzymes, biomembranes, biological transport, bioenergetics, DNA replication, protein synthesis and secretion, motility, and cancer are covered. Cell biology experiments and interactive computer simulation exercises are conducted in the laboratory. Prerequisite: CH 281.

CH 382 Biological Systems
(3-3-4)

Physiochemical principles underlying the coordinated function in multicellular organisms are studied. Electrical properties of biological membranes, characteristics of tissues; nerve-muscle electrophysiology; and circulatory, respiratory, endocrine, digestive, and excretory systems are covered. Computer simulation experiments and data acquisition methods to evaluate and monitor human physiological systems are conducted in the laboratory. Prerequisite: CH 281.

CH 412 Inorganic Chemistry
(3-4-4)

Lecture and laboratory; ionic solids, lattice energy, and factors determining solubility; thermodynamics in inorganic synthesis and analysis; acid-base equilibria; and systematic chemistry of the halogens and other non-metals. Prerequisite: CH 362.

CH 421 Chemical Dynamics
(3-4-4)

Chemical kinetics, solution theories with applications to separation processes, electrolytes, polyelectrolytes, regular solutions and phase equilibria, and laboratory practice in the measurements of physical properties and rate processes. Prerequisites: CH 321 or CHE 234, and MA 221.

CH 422 Supplemental Topics in Physical Chemistry
(1-0-1)

Additional work in physical chemistry for transfer students to cover topics omitted from physical chemistry courses taken elsewhere.

CH 461 Instrumental Analysis II
(3-4-4)

Theory and practice of analytical chemistry. Topics include: sampling techniques, potentiometric and conductometric titrations, chromatographic separations (gas and high-performance liquid chromatography), polarimetry, and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Prerequisites: CH 116, CH 118.

CH 484 Introduction to Molecular Genetics
(3-3-4)

Introduction to the study of molecular basis of inheritance. Starts with classical Mendelian genetics and proceeds to the study and function of DNA, gene expression and regulation in prokaryotes and eukaryotes, genome dynamics and the role of genes in development, and cancer. All topics include discussions of current research advances. Accompanied by laboratory section that explores the lecture topics in standard wet laboratory experiments and in computer simulations. Prerequisites: CH 281, CH 381.

CH 496-497 Chemical Biology Project I-II
(0-8-3) (0-8-3)

Participation in a small group project, under the guidance of a faculty member, whose prior approval is required. Experimentation, application of chemical knowledge, and developmental research leading to the implementation of a working chemical process. Individual or group written report required. Open to juniors and seniors only.

CH 498-499 Senior Chemical/Biological Research I-II
(0-8-3) (0-8-3)

Individual research project under the guidance of a chemistry faculty member, whose prior approval is required. A written report in acceptable journal format and an oral presentation are required at the end of the project. Senior students only. CH 498 and CH 499 cannot be taken simultaneously.

back to top

GRADUATE COURSES

All Graduate courses are 3 credits except where noted.

CH 500 Physical Chemistry Review
Review of undergraduate physical chemistry by means of problem solving; atomic spectra; structure of atoms and molecules; thermodynamics; changes of state; solutions; chemical equilibrium; kinetic theory of gases; chemical kinetics; and electrochemistry. This course may not be counted toward the master's degree and is not open to undergraduate students.

CH 520 Advanced Physical Chemistry
The elements of quantum mechanics are developed and applied to chemical systems. Valence bond theory and molecular orbital theory of small molecules; introduction to group theory for molecular symmetry; fundamental aspects of chemical bonding; and molecular spectra.

CH 540-541 Advanced Organic Laboratory I-II*
Your needs and interests will be considered in the assignment of typical advanced preparations, small research problems, and special operations. Prerequisite: one year of organic laboratory. Laboratory Fee: $60. Fall and spring semesters.

CH 561 Instrumental Methods of Analysis
Primarily a laboratory course, with some lecture presenting the principles and applications of contemporary instrumental analytical methods, with a focus on spectroscopy and separations. Laboratory practice explores ultraviolet, visible, and infrared spectrophotometry; atomic absorption spectroscopy; nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometry; gas-liquid and high-performance liquid chromatography; and mass spectrometry. These instrumental techniques are utilized for quantitative and qualitative analyses of organic, inorganic, biological, and environmental samples. Laboratory fee: $60.

CH 580 Biochemistry I - Cellular Metabolism and Regulation
Discussions include metabolic pathways in biosynthesis and catabolism of biomolecules, including carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids. The hormonal regulation of metabolism, as well as vitamin metabolism, is presented. Prerequisite: CH 242 or equivalent.

CH 582 Biophysical Chemistry
The relationship of the chemical and physical structure of biological macromolecules to their biological functions as derived from osmotic pressure, viscosity, light and X-ray scatting, diffusion, ultracentrifugation, and electrophoresis. The course is subdivided into: 1) properties, functions, and interrelations of biological macromolecules, e.g., polysaccharides, proteins, and nucleic acids; 2) correlation of physical properties of macromolecules in solution; 3) conformational properties of proteins and nucleic acids; and 4) aspects of metal ions in biological systems. Prerequisite: CH 421 or equivalent.

CH 583 Physiology
Fundamentals of control processes governing physiological systems analyzed at the cellular and molecular level; biological signal transduction and negative feedback control of metabolic processes; examples from sensory, nervous, cardiovascular, and endocrine systems; deviations that give rise to abnormal states, their detection, and the theory behind the imaging and diagnostic techniques such as MRI, PET, SPECT; the design and development of therapeutic drugs; the principles, uses, and applications of biomaterials and tissue engineering techniques; and problems associated with biocompatibility. Students (or groups of students) are expected to write and present a term project. Prerequisite: CH 382 or equivalent.

CH 610 Advanced Inorganic and Bioinorganic Chemistry
A systematic treatment of the bonding and reactivity of inorganic substances; molecular shape and electron charge distribution of main-group and coordination compounds, including valence-bond theory and a group theoretical approach to molecular orbital theory; organometallic chemistry; the solid state; and the role of inorganic compounds in biological processes and the environment.

CH 620 Chemical Thermodynamics and Kinetics
Applications of the laws of thermodynamics to solutions, electrolytes and polyelectrolytes, binding, and biological systems; statistical thermodynamics is developed and applied to spectroscopy and transition state theory; and chemical kinetics of simple and complex reactions, enzyme and heterogeneous catalysis, and theories of reaction rates.

CH 621 Quantum Chemistry*
Theorems and postulates of quantum mechanics; operator relationships; solutions of the Schrödinger equation for model systems; variation and perturbation methods; pure spin states; Hartree-Fock self-consistent field theory; and applications to many-electron atoms and molecules. Prerequisite: CH 520 or equivalent.

CH 622 Molecular Spectroscopy*
Theoretical foundations of spectroscopic methods and their application to the study of molecular structure and properties; theory of the absorption and emission of radiation; line spectra of complex atoms; and group theory and rotational, vibrational, and electronic spectroscopy of diatomic and polyatomic molecules.

CH 623 Chemical Kinetics*
A detailed discussion of the kinetics and mechanism of complex reactions in the gaseous and liquid phases. Topics include: stationary and nonstationary conditions; chain reactions; photo and radiation-induced reactions; and reaction rate theories.

CH 624 Statistical Mechanics*
Classical and quantum mechanical preliminaries; derivation of the laws of thermodynamics; applications to monoatomic and polyatomic gases and to gaseous mixtures; systems of dependent particles with applications to the crystalline solid, the imperfect gas, and the cooperative phenomena; electric and magnetic fields; and degenerate gases. Prerequisite: CH 620 or equivalent.

CH 525 Techniques of Surface Analysis
Lectures, demonstrations, and laboratory experiments selected from among the following topics, depending on student interest: vacuum technology; thin-film preparation; scanning electron microscopy; infrared spectroscopy and ellipsometry; electron spectroscopy; Auger, photoelectron, and LEED; ion spectroscopies; SIMS, IBS, and field emission; surface properties-area, roughness, and surface tension. Cross-listed with NANO 525.

CH 640-641 Advanced Organic and Heterocyclic Chemistry I-II
Advanced courses in the chemistry of carbon compounds, with special reference to polyfunctional compounds, heterocycles, techniques of literature survey, stereochemical concepts, and physical tools for organic chemists. Fall and spring semester.

CH 642 Synthetic Organic Chemistry
A survey of important synthetic methods with emphasis on stereochemistry and reaction mechanism. Prerequisite: CH 640.

CH 646 Chemistry of Natural Products
Structure, synthesis, and biogenesis of antibiotics, alkaloids, hormones, and other natural products. Prerequisite: undergraduate organic chemistry.

CH 647 Chemistry and Pharmacology of Drugs
Discussion at the molecular level of drug receptor interaction, influence of stereochemistry and physiochemical properties on drug action, pharmacological effects of structural features, mechanism of drug action, metabolic rate of drugs in animals and man, and drug design. The application of newer physical tools and recent advances in methods for pharmacological studies will be emphasized. Prerequisite: undergraduate organic chemistry.

CH 650 Spectra and Structure Determination
An intensive course on the interpretation of spectroscopic data; emphasis is on the use of modern spectroscopic techniques, such as NMR (13C, D, 15N, and H), mass (including CI), laser-Raman, ESCA, ORD, CD, IR, and UV for structure elucidation. Special attention is given to the application of computer technology in spectral work. A course designed for practicing chemists in analytical, organic, physical, and biomedical areas. Extensive problem-solving. No laboratory.

CH 660 Advanced Instrumental Analysis
Advanced treatment of the theory and practice of spectrometric methods (mass spectrometry, nuclear magnetic resonance, etc.) and electroanalytical methods, with emphasis on Fourier Transform techniques (FTIR, FTNMR, etc.) and hyphenated methods (gc-ms, etc.), the instrument-sample interaction, and signal sampling. A survey of computational methods, such as factor analysis and other chemometric methods is also included. Prerequisite: undergraduate instrumental analysis with laboratory or CH 561.

CH 661 Advanced Instrumental Analysis Laboratory*
Your needs and interests are considered in the assignment of work on one or more of the following: NMR spectrometry, mass spectrometry, electrochemical methods, infrared, ultraviolet, and visible spectrophotometry. Laboratory Fee: $60.

CH 662 Separation Methods in Analytical and Organic Chemistry
An advanced course applying principles and theory to problems in chemical analysis. Theory of separations, including distillation, chromatography, and ultracentrifugation; heterogeneity and surface effects; and sampling and its problems.

CH 663 Design of Chemical Instrumentation*
A practical treatment of the mechanical, electronic, and optical devices used in the construction of instruments for research and chemical analysis and control; motors, light sources and detectors, servomechanisms, electronic components and test equipment, vacuum and pressure measuring devices, and overall design concepts are among the topics treated. Laboratory fee: $60.

CH 664 Computer Methods in Chemistry
Discusses computational chemistry topics, including energy minimization, molecular dynamics, solvation mechanics, and electronic structure calculations. Applications in drug design and receptors will be discussed. Prerequisite: CH 321 or equivalent.

CH 666 Modern Mass Spectrometry
(3-4-4)

A comprehensive hands-on course covering both fundamentals and modern aspects of mass spectrometry, with emphasis on biological and biochemical applications. Topics include: contemporary methods of gas phase ion formation [electron ionization (EI), chemical ionization (CI), inductively coupled plasma (ICP), fast atom bombardment (FAB), plasma desorption (PD), electrospray (ESI), atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (APCI), matrix assisted laser desorption ionization (MALDI), detection (electron and photomultipliers, and array detectors), and mass analysis [magnetic deflection, quadrupole, ion trap, time of flight (TOF), and Fourier-transform (FTMS)]. Detailed interpretation of organic mass spectra for structural information, with special emphasis on even-electron-ion fragmentation. Qualitative and quantitative applications in environmental, biological, pharmacological, forensic, and geochemical sciences.

CH 668 Computational Biology
Topics at the interface of biology and computer technology will be discussed, including molecular sequence analysis, phylogeny generation, biomolecular structure simulation, and modeling of site-directed mutagenesis. Prerequisite: CH 321, CH 580, or equivalent.

CH 670 Synthetic Polymer Chemistry
Mechanisms and kinetics of organic and inorganic polymerization reactions; condensation, free radical and ionic addition, and stereoregular polymerizations; copolymerizations; and the nature of chemical bonds and the resulting physical properties of high polymers.

CH 671 Physical Chemistry of Polymers
Physio-chemical aspects of polymers, molecular weight distributions, solution characterization and theories, polymer chain configuration, thermodynamics of polymer solutions, the amorphous state, and the crystalline state.

CH 672 Macromolecules in Modern Technology
The course covers recent advances in macromolecular science, including polyelectrolytes and water-soluble polymers, synthetic and biological macromolecules at surfaces, self-assembly of synthetic and biological macromolecules, and polymers for biomedical applications.

CH 673 Special Topics in Polymer Chemistry*
Recent developments in polymer science will be discussed, e.g., physical measurements, polymer characterization, polymerization kinetics, and morphology. Topics will vary from year to year and specialists will participate.

CH 674/NANO 674 Polymer Functionality
Topics at the interface of polymer chemistry and biomedical sciences, focusing on areas where polymers have made a particularly strong contribution, such as in biomedical sciences and pharmaceuticals . Synthesis and properties of biopolymers; biomaterials; nanotechnology smart polymers; functional applications in biotechnology, tissue and cell engineering; and biosensors and drug delivery. Prerequisite: Undergraduate Organic Chemistry.

CH 678 Experimental Microbiology
Discussions in medical, industrial, and environmental microbiology will include bacteriology, virology, mycology, parasitology, and infectious diseases. Includes experimental laboratory instruction. Laboratory fee: $60. Prerequisite: CH 382 or equivalent.

CH 681 Biochemistry II - Biomolecular Structure and Function
Discusses the physical and structural chemistry of proteins and nucleotides, as well as the functional role these molecules play in biochemistry. Extensive use of known X-ray structural information will be used to visualize the three-dimensional structure of these biomolecules. This structural information will be used to relate the molecules to known functional information. Prerequisite: CH 242 or equivalent.

CH 682 Biochemical Laboratory Techniques
Students will work actively in small collaborative groups to solve a unique research project that encompasses the purification, analysis of purity, kinetics, and structure-function analysis of a novel recombinant protein. Techniques in protein purification, gel electrophoresis, peptide digest separation, ligand binding, steady-state and stopped-flow kinetics, and molecular simulation will be explored. Prerequisite: Admission into the graduate Chemical Biology program. Laboratory fee: $60.

CH 684 Molecular Biology Laboratory Techniques
This laboratory course introduces essential techniques in molecular biology and genetic engineering in a project format. The course includes aseptic technique and the handling of microbes; isolation and purification of nucleic acids; construction, selection and analysis of recombinant DNA molecules; restriction mapping; immobilization and hybridization of nucleic acids; and labeling methods of nucleic acid probes. Laboratory fee: $60. Prerequisite: CH 484 or equivalent.

CH 685 Medicinal Chemistry
A few topics of timely interest will be treated in depth,; recent chemical developments will be surveyed in fields such as antibiotics, cancer chemotherapy, CNS agents, chemical control of fertility, steroids and prostaglandins in therapy, etc. Prerequisite: CH 242 or equivalent.

CH 686 Immunology
The cells and molecules of the immune system and their interaction and regulation; the cellular and genetic components of the immune response, the biochemistry of antigens and antibodies, the generation of antibody diversity, cytokines, hypersensitivities, and immunodeficiencies (i.e. AIDS); and transplants and tumors. Use of antibodies in currently emerging immunodiagnostic techniques such as ELISA, disposable kits, molecular targets, and development of vaccines utilizing molecular biological techniques, such as recombinant and subunit vaccines. Students (or groups of students) are expected to write and present a term project. Prerequisite: CH 381 or equivalent.

CH 687 Molecular Genetics
This course is a modern approach to the study of heredity through molecular biology. Primary emphasis is on nucleic acids, the molecular biology of gene expression, molecular recognition and signal transduction, and bacterial and viral molecular biology. The course will also discuss recombinant DNA technology and its impact on science and medicine. Prerequisite: CH 484 or equivalent.

CH 688 Methods in Chemical Biology
A discussion of the theories underlying various techniques of molecular biology which are used in the biotechnology industry. Topics include all recombinant DNA techniques; DNA isolation and analysis; library construction and screening; cloning; DNA sequencing; hybridization and other detection methods; RNA isolation and analysis; protein isolation and analysis (immunoassay, ELISA, etc.); transgenic and ES cell methods; electrophoresis (agarose, acrylamide, two dimensional, and SDS-PAGE); column chromatography; and basic cell culture including transfection and expression systems. Prerequisites: Undergraduate biology, especially cell biology (CH 381 or equivalent).

CH 689 Cell Biology Laboratory Techniques
Laboratory practice in modern biological research will be explored. Techniques involving gene and protein cellular probes, ELISA, mammalian cell culturing, cell cycle determination, differential centrifugation, electron microscopy, and fluorescent cellular markets will be addressed. Prerequisite: Admission into the graduate Chemical Biology program and CH 381 or equivalent. Laboratory fee: $60.

CH 690/NANO 690 Cellular Signal Transduction
This advanced course covers the mechanism and biological role of signal transduction in mammalian cells. Topics included are extracellular regulatory signals, intracellular signal transduction pathways, role of tissue context in the function of cellular regulation, and examples of biological processes controlled by specific cellular signal transduction pathways. Prerequisites: Undergraduate Cell Biology, Molecular Genetics (Undergraduate). Cross-listed with BME 690.

CH 700 Seminar in Chemistry
Lectures by department faculty, guest speakers, and doctoral students on recent research. Enrollment during the entire period of study is required of all doctoral students. 0.5 credit, pass/fail. Must be taken every semester.

CH 720-721 Selected Topics in Chemical Physics I-II*
Topics of current interest selected by you are to be investigated from an advanced point of view.

CH 722 Selected Topics in Physical Chemistry*
Topics selected to coincide with research interests current in the department.

CH 740 Selected Topics in Organic Chemistry*
Selected topics of current interest in the field of organic chemistry will be treated from an advanced point of view; recent developments will be surveyed in fields such as reaction mechanisms, physical methods in organic chemistry, natural products chemistry, biogenesis, etc.

CH 760 Chemoinformatics
This advanced course in computational chemistry builds on the methods developed in CH 664. Students will analyze and design combinatorial libraries, develop SAR models, and generate calculated molecular properties. The hands-on course will use both PC and Silicon Graphics computers. Software, such as that from Oxford Molecular, Tripos, and Oracle will be used, as will MSI software, such as INSIGHT/DISCOVER, Catalyst, and Cerius 2. Prerequisite: CH 664 or equivalent.

CH 780-781 Selected Topics in Biochemistry I-II*
Topics of current interest in biochemical research are discussed, such as: enzyme chemistry, biochemical genetics and development, cellular control mechanism, biochemistry of cell membranes, bioenergetics, and microbiology.

CH 782 Selected Topics in Bioorganic Chemistry*
Topics of timely interest will be treated in an interdisciplinary fashion; recent developments will be surveyed in fields such as biosynthesis, radioactive and stable isotope techniques, genesis of life chemicals, nucleic acids and replication, genetic defects, and metabolic errors.

CH 800 Special Research Problems in Chemistry*
One to six credits. Limit of six credits for the degree of Master of Science.

CH 801 Special Problems in Chemistry*
One to six credits. Limit of six credits for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy.

CH 900 Thesis in Chemistry*
For the degree of Master of Science, five to ten credits with departmental approval.

CH 960 Research in Chemistry*
Original experimental or theoretical research that may serve as the basis for the dissertation required for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy. The work will be carried out under the guidance of a faculty member. Hours and credits to be arranged.

*By request.

back to top

 
 

Undergraduate Programs

Chemistry

Chemical Biology

Accelerated Chemical Biology Program

Special Programs

Interdisciplinary Program in Computational Science

Graduate Programs

Chemistry and Chemical Biology

Master's Programs

Doctoral Programs

Graduate Certificate Programs

Undergraduate Courses

Graduate Courses

Copyright © Stevens Institute of Technology    All Rights Reserved
One Castle Point on Hudson  Hoboken, NJ 07030  (201) 216-5000