This award is supported by the Major Research Instrumentation and the Chemistry Research Instrumentation programs. California State University San Bernardino (UEC at CSUSB) is acquiring a 400 MHz nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectrometer equipped with an automatic sample changer to support Dr. Jeremy Mallari and colleagues Drs. Kimberley Cousins, Douglas Smith and Jason Burke. This spectrometer allows research in a variety of fields such as those that accelerate chemical reactions of significant economic importance, as well as permitting the study of biologically relevant species. In general, NMR spectroscopy is one of the most powerful tools available to chemists for the elucidation of the structure of molecules. It is used to identify unknown substances, to characterize specific arrangements of atoms within molecules, and to study the dynamics of interactions between molecules in solution or in the solid state. Access to state-of-the-art NMR spectrometers is essential to chemists who are carrying out frontier research. This instrument is an integral part of teaching as well as research and research training of undergraduate students in chemistry and biochemistry at this institution and nearby institutions and community colleges.
The award of the NMR spectrometer is aimed at enhancing research and education at all levels. It especially impacts the development of ferroelectric and piezoelectric systems. The instrumentation is also aimed at supporting activities related to the extraction of lithium from seawater. In addition, it benefits the development of chemical tools to investigate malaria protease biology. The spectrometer is also to be used to investigate chalcone isomerase evolution.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
