Due to the interdisciplinary nature of knowledge that drives discoveries and innovation, computational skills are no longer exclusively associated with students who receive degrees in computer science or math. Graduates in chemistry need to be equally computer-savvy, capable of applying algorithmic thinking to solve complex problems, well versed in advanced data mining and visualization techniques, able to analyze and make sense of the large data sets (e.g. structural and genomic), and overall familiar with existing computational methods applicable to chemistry. However, due to the steepness of the learning curve associated with mastering such skills, they are rarely taught to chemistry students at the undergraduate level. In this talk, I will present an approach I used to develop and implement a hands-on course “Biomolecular Modeling and Simulations” at Utah Valley University – a large open enrollment undergraduate institution. This course introduces students to the wide range of chemical and biological problems that can be tackled using computational methods, consists of a series of computer-based labs culminating in a final project, and teaches practical skills needed to perform biomolecular simulations and interpret their results. During the talk, I will share the lessons learned during the development and implementation process, as well as describe challenges, obstacles and limitations of the approach. 

Introducing undergraduate chemistry students to the field of biomolecular modeling and simulations

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.