Detecting hazardous metal ions in water and lead in painted wooden toys are among the research studies that five undergraduate Chemistry and Biochemistry students are currently pursuing at UDM.

“Students who join my research group are interested in the environmental applications of the projects,” says Katherine C. Lanigan, associate professor of Chemistry/Biochemistry.

Chemistry/Biochemistry Associate Professor Katherine Lanigan (far left) with undergraduate research students Hao-Yu Chen, Jonathan Shafer, Christine Pitters, Emily Rames and Cleo Vidican.

One of the research projects being carried out under Lanigan’s direction is metal analysis by flame atomic absorption spectroscopy.  The spectrometer, obtained through a 2006 National Science Foundation grant, was obtained for projects that examine metal concentrations in a variety of samples such as water, soil, paint, plants, saliva and hair.  Presently, experiments using the instrument include the measurement of calcium and magnesium concentrations in tap water, as well as lead in painted wooden toys, a current major concern for parents and the toy industry. 

Lanigan’s main research project examines heterogeneous catalysts for remediation of waste water, specifically the photo-catalytic oxidation of organic complexing agents.  The catalytic systems that the students study utilize inexpensive materials and ultraviolet light energy that could potentially come from solar radiation. 

“Undergraduate research, while not mandatory, is an invaluable experience for science majors,” explains Lanigan. “It provides students with an opportunity to apply the knowledge, investigative and problem-solving skills and laboratory techniques that they have learned while at UDM.  In addition, they learn to communicate both in written and oral format with professional chemists through their papers, posters and oral presentations.  Doing undergraduate research under the supervision of a faculty member also provides students a chance to gain confidence in their abilities and to get to know professors outside of the classroom.”

According to sophomore Biochemistry student Graham Greenland, “One of the most beneficial aspects of undergraduate research is to strengthen what you have learned through active participation."