Cameron Students posing for a picture on Campus

Analytical Chemistry

Analytical Chemistry

Analytical Chemistry is the science of obtaining, processing, and communicating information about the composition and structure of matter. In other words, Analytical Chemistry is the art and science of determining the composition in terms of what and how much is present. Here at Cameron University, we offer four research endeavors of Analytical Chemistry. One area is through water analysis in which the students will observe the quality of water through the measurements of water solute levels and how the dissolved materials effect the environment stationed around the water source. Another area of interest is the study of molecular structures found in crystals, or crystallography. The students will study the compounds through measuring the X-ray diffraction patterns of the crystals of interest.  In a third area of the study of Analytical Chemistry, environment safety through the monitoring of pollutant presence and concentration in environmental settings. Here students will study the presence, behavior, and potential impact of pollutants on ecosystems and human health through instruments such as gas chromatography, liquid chromatography, and atomic absorption spectrometry. One more aspect to the research field that Cameron offers is the analyzing of the chemical composition of plants with medicinal significance. Students will analyze the chemical composition of the plants and investigate to see if these composition will benefit the medical field. 

Research #1

Water Analysis

One area of active investigation includes the study of the impact of Lawton-Fort Sill on the Wolf Creek water quality and its impact on Wolf Creek ecosystem. It is partially in collaboration with the Oklahoma Conservation Commission. The Oklahoma Conservation Commission initiated the Blue Thumb Project in an effort to monitor stream ambient water quality statewide. Bio-monitoring involves the collection and analysis of macro invertebrate communities as well as fish communities to assess overall water quality that can be correlated to chemical and physical attributes including temperature, clarity, dissolved oxygen, phosphate, chloride, ammonia, nitrate, nitrite, and pH levels.

Picture coming soon!


Research #3

Crystallography

Another area of active investigation is the single crystal growth and X-ray crystallographic structure determination of a wide variety of compounds. Some compounds in our study can contribute to the analysis of substrate-enzyme interactions that might be attributed to active site geometry. Other compounds in our study have been studied for their anti-cancer activity for structure-activity relationships. In addition, a number of compounds are under study to clarify structure-activity relationships that lead to liquid crystalline behavior. Finally, x-ray crystallographic structure determination is underway to correlate structure influence on the mechanism of catalytic activities of iron thiolate compounds.

Picture coming soon!

Research #2

Environmental contaminant monitoring

Environmental contaminant monitoring is crucial because it allows us to understand the presence, behavior, and potential impact of pollutants on ecosystems and human health. By tracking contaminants in air, water, soil, and organisms, we can assess risks, develop effective regulations, and safeguard the environment for future generations. Monitoring helps mitigate pollution's adverse effects, protect biodiversity, and inform strategies for sustainable environmental management. In this research project, I will employ Gas Chromatography (GC/MS/FID), Liquid Chromatography (LC/MS), and Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS) techniques. These methods are integral for the identification and precise quantification of environmental constraints present in diverse environmental samples, including water, soil, and sediments.

Pictures coming soon!


Research #4

Analyzing the chemical composition of plants with medicinal significance

Chemical profiling of medicinally important plants involves the comprehensive analysis and identification of the diverse compounds present within these botanical sources. Through sophisticated analytical techniques like chromatography (such as GC or LC) coupled with various spectroscopic methods (like MS or NMR), researchers aim to characterize the chemical composition of these plants. This profiling provides a detailed understanding of the bioactive compounds, their concentrations, and interactions, unveiling the potential medicinal properties and aiding in the development of herbal remedies or pharmaceuticals. This approach helps in harnessing the therapeutic potential of these plants and exploring their applications in healthcare and drug discovery.