Department of Chemistry

As chemist P.W. Atkins remarks in his book Molecules, “[O]ne or two atoms can convert a fuel to a poison, change a color, render an inedible substance edible, or replace a pungent odor with a fragrant one.”  At Lake Forest College, chemistry students immerse themselves in this exciting world where tiny things have big consequences.

The Department of Chemistry prepares its majors for success after graduation by focusing on analytical as well as applied skills. The curriculum combines comprehensive coursework in organic, inorganic, analytical, physical, and biochemistry with intensive laboratory experience and hands-on exposure to modern instrumentation. As early as their first year, undergraduates at Lake Forest are afforded the otherwise rare opportunity to work with research-grade equipment, such as a capillary gas chromatograph or a nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometer, among others. Computers are also an integral part of the chemistry curriculum and research activities; Macintosh, PC, and Silicon Graphics workstations are used for instrument interfacing, plotting, spreadsheets, color graphics, and molecular modeling. Students conduct class experiments as well as their own research with these tools, learning techniques and, most importantly, gaining confidence in their abilities as chemists.

Chemistry students also benefit from the time and attention of accessible professors who – in addition to teaching, supervising labs, and running help sessions – get to know majors individually and advise them in their course of study. Since they work both as teachers and active researchers, faculty encourage students to assist them with their original scholarship. Our students have recently helped professors develop new solar cell materials, explore coupling reactions in microwave ovens, and analyze air pollution over Houston, Texas.

The chemistry program at Lake Forest develops exceptionally well-prepared, confident, and competitive graduates. Many pursue graduate studies leading to the M.S. or Ph.D. degree in chemistry or biochemistry at such prestigious universities as Princeton and Stanford. A major in chemistry also provides ideal preparation for medical and dental school, and former majors have enjoyed success at such medical schools as Northwestern, Rush, and the University of Illinois. Our majors are also prepared for careers in industry, working for such companies as Johnson Wax, TAP pharamceuticals, and BP Amoco.

Department Contact:
847-735-5090

 

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