INTRODUCTION
Hello, my name is Mason Swanton, and I am a fifth-year student finishing my Bachelor of Science with a major in Chemistry at Thompson Rivers University (TRU). Throughout my undergraduate degree, I have been involved in multiple research projects. While I have been able to obtain a wide range of skills throughout the different disciplines of chemistry, my main interest is in synthesis and organic chemistry. One of the main attraction factors for me deciding to pursue chemistry came from organic chemistry 1 and 2. Learning in class how chemicals react and being able to predict what reactions may take place and how was very fascinating to me. Furthermore, being able to then go into lab and put these ideas to the test and see the results solidified the idea of me pursuing a chemistry degree.
During my time at TRU, I have used my chemistry abilities to help other students through tutoring students both 1-on-1 and in a group setting. This has allowed me to expand my communicative abilities and gain a better grasp on course topics as I’ve learned how to explain them in ways other students can understand.
My interest in synthesis and reactions also lead me into a self-directed research project, supervised by Dr. Bruno Cinel and Dr. Jess Allingham, in my fourth year. This research, titled: “Developing a Light-Activated Organic Polymerization Laboratory Activity with Applications to Dentistry”, focused on a possible reaction for the synthesis of these polymers as well as how different mixtures or ratios affected the outcome of the material before and after curing. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy was then used to determine the structural changes that occurred after curing.
The Standards
Understanding the Research Process
Research Courses Taken:
- CHEM 4480 Directed Studies
- Students investigate a specific topic involving experimental work as agreed upon by the student and her/his faculty supervisor and co-supervisor. This course provides experience with research techniques and the presentation of results. Prerequisite: Acceptance into Chemistry or Environmental Chemistry Major; approval of supervisor and co-supervisor
- CHEM 3140: Applied Analytical Chemistry
- This course will focus on analytical method development, including sampling and sample handling, extraction, determination, and data acquisition. The analysis of organic and inorganic compounds in a variety of matrices will be discussed. Case studies from the literature will illustrate typical applications.
- CHEM 4420: Advanced Organic Chemistry Laboratory
- This is a half-semester (6-week) advanced laboratory course in organic chemistry which illustrates advanced techniques and modern synthetic methods found in recent organic chemistry research literature.
Evaluating Existing Research
- CHEM 3140: Review on Characterizing the marine mammal exposome by iceberg modeling, linking chemical analysis and in vitro bioassays
Applying Research Methods
- This is the Report for my directed studies project on polymerization reactions in dental polymers. This report is one of the longest and detailed reports I have done in my undergraduate degree
- Over the course of two experiments, students started with an unknown acyl halide and reacted it with a known amino acid. A proposed mechanism reaction was written up and the unknown was identified using various techniques including IR and NMR
Analyzing and Drawing Conclusions
- This is my Directed Studies poster that was presented during the SUPER conference at TRU
- In this poster presentation, the results of a three week group project are detailed. My contributions included reading similar research papers for sample preparation methods, making stock solutions/standards, and writing parts of the report
- In this incident report, a train wreck scenario was made up. Students were given a chemical and then had to research the possible risks, how the chemical may partition within the water, and more.
Other Analysis and Conclusion Drawing Courses:
- CHEM 4400: Advanced Analytical Chemistry Lab
- This is a half-semester (6-week) advanced laboratory course in analytical chemistry in which students apply instrumental methods to the chemical analysis of real sample types.
- CMNS 2290: Technical Communication
- Students study a variety of technical communications used to document professional activity, including proposals, technical and formal reports, policies and procedures, technical descriptions and definitions, and instructions. Students learn the importance of documentation and accountability as part of professional due diligence, applicable across many fields including journalism, business, government, public service, consulting and research institutes. Students develop skills in assessing communication needs in a scenario, identifying communication goals, audience need and relevant media. Finally, students learn skills in research and synthesis to ensure professional engagement and presentation of research material.
- CHEM 3010: Aqueous Chemistry
- Students are introduced to the properties and composition of natural waters. Topics include hydrologic cycle, water quality, partitioning, transport, chemical equilibria, pH, complexation, redox processes, and water treatment.
Engaging in Knowledge Mobilization
- INSERT IMAGE OF SUPER CONFERENCE
- This poster was created to present to the class during lecture based on literature review of molecular switches.
- As part of the course, students had to propose a reaction mechanism of a literature reviewed paper and create a poster to present and teach the class about the mechanism
Reflection Essay
Here, a reflection about my time as an undergraduate at TRU can be found. It details my experience, the skills I’ve obtained, and what I’ve learned during my five years at TRU