Proposal

Narrative

The Organic Chemistry Laboratory course has student enrollment of 600+ STEM majors per year, most of whom also identify as being in the pre-health track at FAU. We are seeking funds to purchase cutting-edge rotary evaporators (rotavaps) with electronic interface technology to enhance student understanding of the fundamental physical concepts of azeotropic solvent removal under reduced pressure. These concepts are tested and assumed knowledge on medical and other health-related graduate school application exams such as the MCAT, DAT, PCAT, and GRE. FAU pre-health students need to be better prepared to answer these questions correctly, with thorough understanding of and hands-on experience with rotavaps and the underlying physical concepts. Currently rotavap technology is not available in FAU’s Organic Laboratory course. If this project is funded we will be able to create and implement new and exciting lab experiences to help our students learn these important concepts and use this technology themselves in the context of real life medical/health-related examples such as: “Synthesis of guaifenesin (popular over-the-counter expectorant – a molecule that promotes secretion or expulsion of phlegm, mucus, or other matter from the respiratory tract)”; and “Isolation of carotenoids (powerful antioxidants) from tomato paste”. Total cost of requested five rotavaps with electronic interface, with installation service fee is $47,075. All the technology includes a 5-year warranty and some basic training if needed. Acquiring this important piece of technology will help to prepare our undergraduate students for continuation of their education in the graduate health profession schools. It will also improve necessary skills of the students who will decide to pursue their careers in a highly competitive STEM job market, which is in alignment with FAU’s strategic plan.

Facilities

None required. The proposed technology will be installed in rooms PS 237 and PS 239.

Hardware Requirements

There are no hardware requirements.

Software Requirements

There are no software requirements.

Personnel Costs

There are no personnel costs; existing personnel will use the requested equipment.

Other Costs

None required.

Timeline

In the event of this proposal being funded the installation will be completed by Roma Stawikowska (Organic Laboratories Coordinator), immediately after its delivery. Installation will likely take place in the Summer 2022 semester.

Sustainability

Roma Stawikowska will train all Organic Chemistry Lab Teaching Assistants (TAs) in rotavap operation. Regular maintenance will be covered by Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry staff member (Dr. F. Russel).

Resource Matching

All consumables to be used with this equipment will be paid by the department through lab fees associated with CHM 2211L labs.

Implementing Organization

The project will be implemented by Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry.