Current Research Students

 

Alumni

 

Research Interests:

 

An analytical chemist by training, my laboratory research interests include:

 

1.   The development of luminescence-based sensors for analytes of interest in the areas of environmental science, forensic science, and biotechnology.  Specifically, research with students in this area is directed at improving available sensing materials and sensing strategies, extending the range of possible analytes that can be measured using luminescence-based methods, designing a multi-functional luminescence-based sensor for the detection of 2 or more analytes of interest, and improving the current understanding of the relationship between luminescent reporter and polymer support.  Specific targets include temperature, pH, O₂, humidity, glucose, lactate and H₂.

 

2.   Construction of instrumentation for use in the department and development of methods to address forensic problems are also of interest.  For example, laser-based instrumentation such as light scattering and excited state lifetime systems are being constructed, and analytical methods are being developed for the forensic dating of questioned documents by analysis of ink degradation products.

 

3.   Fundamental research directed at improvement of Polyelectrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cells.  Building on knowledge gained from the use of polymer supports in the development of luminescence-based sensors, we are working in collaboration with Dr. Heather Watson (Engineering) and research students on the development of improved PEM fuel cells.

Current Research Students

§  John Tellis (’12) “Smart Hydrogels as Transducers in Luminescence-Based Temperature and Humidity Sensors”

§  Zac Kulp (’11) “Low Cost Preparation of Membrane Electrode Assemblies for Polyelectrolyte Membrane Fuel Cells”

§  Matt Myers (’11) “Development of Thin Film Sensors Based on “Smart” Hydrogels and an Environment-Sensitive Luminophore”

§  Chris Strulson (’09) “Smart Hydrogels as Transducers in Luminescence-Based Glucose and Lactate Sensors ” " Penn State University, Department of Chemistry Graduate Program