Science at the intersection of chemistry and biology is accelerating, yielding promising tools to probe the life sciences, as evidenced by the 2018 Nobel Prize in Chemistry. Advances need to be explained in an understandable manner, particularly to students and educators of chemistry and biology to inform them as citizens and enlighten them about options for career paths. Objective: A community outreach initiative on protein science was undertaken by ACS Princeton local section to engage high school students, educators and community members about issues, ideas, tools and techniques that advance our understanding of biological chemistry. Methods: The overall theme was proteins and other macromolecules in life sciences. Content was selected based upon life science-related chemistry of proteins currently being studied by area university researchers. Talks were preceded by an overview of protein structure and function as a keynote presentation. Brief presentations were given by Princeton graduate students and post-doctoral trainees in chemistry. Tours of academic research laboratories led by a postdoctoral researcher provided a real-world experience and another opportunity to pose questions directly to research trainees. Outcome: Surveys, completing by over 100 attendees at the end of the symposia, showed most students had interest in learning more about protein science and pursuing a project in the area. Educator surveys indicated the symposium was an effective extension activity, sparking ideas for the classroom setting. Attendees were encouraged to further explore topics of interest through suggested resources and activities, e.g., science competitions and summer programs. Conclusion: Reception of this educational outreach program indicates that it is worthwhile engaging university researchers in chemistry to communicate their science effectively to enhance science literacy among high school students, educators and community members. Plans for future “Protein Chemistry for Life” programs will retain basic elements described here and add modeling and simulation activities.

Symposium on proteins and other macromolecules: Design and assessment of outreach program

Macromolecular Chemistry: The Second Century

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ACS Spring 2020 National Meeting & Expo

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.