The university has made a strong commitment to improving its undergraduate program in chemistry by increasing the coverage of molecular structure analysis in the lecture and laboratory components of the curriculum. The specific aim of this project is to fund the acquisition of a multinuclear 200-MHz NMR spectrometer that has indirect detection and variable temperature capabilities. The new spectrometer can dramatically improve student access to a FT-NMR spectrometer for laboratory projects. It allows us to develop pertinent and original experiments to reinforce the chemical concepts being taught in the lectures. Implementation of this proposal directly affects six courses offered in the chemistry/biochemistry curriculum. In addition, five faculty members have a demonstrated need for this instrument in their own undergraduate research programs, which involve numerous students throughout the summer and during the academic year. This addition is having an immediate and meaningful impact on the undergraduate education that is provided and can ultimately lead to substantial improvements in the laboratory curriculum.
