Exciting Chemistry Education
Chemistry can be daunting and overwhelming for many students.
I use sci-fi and fantasy themes to create dynamic presentations, games, and animations that make complex topics—like mechanisms, structures, and reaction conditions—more engaging and approachable!
Here are some snippets of recent interactive talks:
Sebacic Acid Spectacle
This talk highlights a newly developed pathway featuring three selective reactions essential for completing the chemical synthesis of sebacic acid from algae. (publication in submission)
During this presentation you are calling on performers at the Sebacic Acid Spectacle to help you with your synthesis while Pollutor, the purveyor of harmful plastics, tries to thwart your efforts. Audience votes on outcomes of reactions and the path the protagonist takes in the carnival. The carnival has areas including the Baeyer-Villiger Forest, Meinwald Mystics, and Enzymatic Incantations.
Baeyer-Villiger Forest
The frog represents the oxidant mCPBA (meta-chloroperoxybenzoic acid). Pollutor shakes the leaves and “confuses” the frog so that it does not know where to insert the oxygen. The audience gets to vote for which side. Shown is the correct answer (the double bond facilitates a Baeyer-Villiger oxygen insertion to the left of the ketone).
Meinwald Mystics
Mystic ZnI2 performs a selective Meinwald rearrangement.
Enzymatic Monsters
CpLIP2 monster performs a selective chemo-enzymatic epoxidation. (yes, the mouth is the active pocket)
Video Games – Coming Soon!
Based off of the interactive presentations, I am working on translating my PhD research into a playable video game… Will it take you longer to get my PhD than me?
I am also developing a casual chemistry puzzle game that is ideal for coffee breaks, before bed, or as a mental wake-up in the morning.