Program Overview

School of Science

Chemistry and Chemical Biology

The Chemistry and Chemical Biology program is committed to promoting Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) education and outreach through various programs. These programs include the I-PERSIST Mentor Program, Rensselaer Chemistry Society (RCS), and Summer@Rensselaer Program.

I-PERSIST Mentor Program

The I-PERSIST Mentor program at RPI is an initiative of the School of Science and the Division of Student Life, sponsored by a grant from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI). This program promotes peer-to-peer interactions and learning on the principles of chemistry by having first-year students in Chemistry I divided into small groups. These groups meet weekly with an undergraduate student mentor for informal sessions on solving problems and building time management and study skills necessary to succeed in the early stage of their college studies.

Rensselaer Chemistry Society (RCS)

The RCS is an undergraduate student organization at RPI that actively promotes opportunities to interact with Rensselaer chemistry undergraduates and participate in a variety of informal, chemistry-related activities.

STEM Educational Outreach Programs

STEM educational outreach programs are provided to K-12 students in collaboration with the Summer@Rensselaer Program and National Chemistry Day at the New York State Museum. Through many activities, including interactive chemistry demonstrations, hands-on activities, and university research experience in chemistry laboratories, the program aims to share the excitement of learning chemistry with a young audience.

Faculty Researchers

• Wilfredo Colon
• Alexander Ma
• Gerald Korenowski
• Steven Tysoe

These faculty members contribute to the research and educational outreach efforts of the Chemistry and Chemical Biology program, enhancing the learning experience for students and promoting STEM education in the community.