This award of the program for Professional Opportunities for Women in Research and Education (POWRE) supports the research and educational activities of Professor Leah O'Brien of Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville. Research focusses on high resolution molecular spectroscopy of gas phase radicals, with particular emphasis on nuclear hyperfine analysis and interpretation. In academic year 1997-98, work will be conducted at the University of British Columbia, at the National Solar Observatory facility at Kitt Peak, and at Southern Illinois University, in concert with undergraduate and graduate students. The significance of the research is not only the acquisition of the fundamental molecular constants obtained by spectral analysis, but also interpretation of these results, particularly as they relate to chemical bonding and reactivities. The opportunity afforded through the POWRE program will enhance Professor O'Brien's research and leadership potential and her educational mentoring of students at a predominantly undergraduate university.
