Robert D. Long, Ph.D.
Associate Professor - Physical Sciences - Organic Chemistry
College
of Liberal
Arts & Sciences
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Robert D. Long, Ph.D. Associate Professor - Physical Sciences - Organic Chemistry |
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| Subject Info • Instructor's Schedule • Research • Resume • Useful Links | ||||
| Fall 2008 | Spr 2009 | |||
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Course links will display the corresponding syllabus (when available). Further information (syllabi, assignments, reviews, old exams, grades) for undergraduate organic courses and labs can be found during the semester in WebCT (registered students only). Please consult the Instructor's Schedule for information on regularly scheduled office hours. The instructor may be available at other times to meet with students, but appointments are advisable. Instructor has a mailbox in RH120 for messages. In addition to regularly scheduled courses, instructor also mentors
undergraduate and graduate research projects. |
I teach courses in Organic Chemistry and related subjects (polymer/material chemistry) to both undergraduate and graduate students. I also participate in science teacher education and mentor research projects with undergraduate and/or graduate students.
Organic chemistry involves the study of compounds of carbon - some found in nature, but many others are made in industry or laboratories as pharmaceuticals, polymers (plastics), fuels, lubricants, detergents, solvents, dyes, agricultural chemicals, explosives, etc., etc. In 1990 there were 4 million known organic compounds - at last count we were up to over 17 million! This can make the study of organic chemistry seem overwhelming at times. However, every year students worldwide successfully complete introductory courses in organic chemistry and then go on to apply what they've learned in fields such as biology, environmental management, medicine, pharmacy, engineering, nursing, petroleum industries, agriculture, and many others. Others may pursue advanced education in organic chemistry and find careers in the manufacture of pharmaceuticals, petroleum products, commodity or fine chemicals, polymers, cosmetics, inks, dyes, food products, or performing spectroscopic analyses of compounds (environmental, crime scene, or quality control). Others may decide to become teachers and educate others.
Knowledge of organic chemistry is key to an understanding of the processes of life. It forms the basis for understanding the molecules, chemical reactions, and processes that are key to the fields of biology, biochemistry, and medicine.
Organic chemistry starts with an introduction to basic principles. For some students this involves an intensive year-long sequence in organic chemistry (with laboratory). For others who are going into fields that just require basic knowledge of the subject (such as nursing or dental assisting) a one semester overview of organic and biological chemistry may be sufficient. It is highly recommended that students take organic chemistry as early in their degree programs as possible (after completing prerequiste courses).
Advanced organic chemistry training is available at both the undergraduate and graduate levels that builds upon this basic knowledge set, and involves both literature study and hands-on laboratory experiences.
Chemistry majors are encouraged to consider working on independant research projects once they have completed at least a basic study of organic chemistry - interdisciplinary projects for other majors may also be available. Projects are usually available for undergraduate students during regular semesters and over the summer term. See instructor for further details.
| Last Update: August 14, 2008 by Robert Long | Home • Chemistry • Physical Sciences • College • ENMU |
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