South Dakota Mines Chemistry, Biology, and Health Sciences

Thanks to everyone who participated in the Girl Scout's BIG Event. Programs like these really encourage local kids to take an interest in STEM fields. https://lnkd.in/gSd_zSTV

Congratulations to CBHS and CBE faculty on their new research grant! South Dakota Mines professors Roman Shchepin, Tanvi Govil, and Rajesh Sani, are part of a $7 million National Science Foundation (NSF) E-RISE RII project led by South Dakota State University that will build research capacity focused on biological nitrogen fixation and its applications in sustainable agriculture and industry.

Welcome to Dr. Haiden Nguyen! Here is a little bit about the newest member of CBHS- Dr. Nguyen earned his Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry from the University of Toledo, where he specialized in the synthesis of complex molecules. Following his doctoral studies, he joined the Department of Biochemistry at Duke University School of Medicine as a Postdoctoral Associate. There, his research focused on the biosynthesis of natural products, particularly focusing on radical SAM enzymes. At South Dakota Mines, Dr. Nguyen’s research interests centered on the synthesis of small molecules and the engineering of radical SAM enzymes to investigate human diseases.

Dr Mathews and her students have spent the summer performing a study to assess the presence and environmental suitability of the Culex tarsalis mosquito vector in the Black Hills using a combination of ground-based surveillance and space-based remote sensing tools. The secondary aim of this study is to assist the South Dakota Department of Health with annual West Nile surveillance.

Congratulations to Dr. Kunza's on recieving the Jean E. Simmons Award for Science Education Excellence from the Graduate Women in Science Organization. The award recognizes Kunza's advocacy for STEM education, leadership and mentorship.

We have made curriculum/program updates in our undergraduate programs in CBHS

CBHS's Green Chemistry Camp introduces students to the core concepts of green and sustainable chemistry, involving the "12 Principles of Green Chemistry" and engage them in the classroom with hands-on laboratory learning experiences. This years students synthesized biodiesel, prepared biodegradable polymers, and assembled electric cars. In addition, they visited the Sanford Underground Research Facility and had a guest presentation from the POET company. Thank you to Dr. Tsvetanka Filipova, Cabot Ann Christofferson, Lily Cutler, and everyone else involved in this wonderful learning experience.

Congratulations to Dr. Tsvetanka Filipova for being the 2024 recipient of the Virginia Simpson Award. The Virginia Simpson Award recognizes faculty or staff members for their involvement in the Rapid City community through participation in community activities, social services, and/or volunteer work.

Thank you to Dr. Adcock, Dr. Racz, and Dr. Zheng for 5 years of service at SDSMT! Your hard work and dedication is appreciated by CBHS and its students.