S. Keith Dunn Associate Professor of Chemistry
B.S., Erskine College; Ph.D., Indiana University
859-238-5417 keith.dunn@centre.edu
Research on the photo-induced energy transfer between salt substrates and absorbed molecules. Grants, including a 1994 Cottrell College Science Award. Collaborative research with Centre students, including Kari Liptay and Chris Shofner. Resident director of Centre's program in London, England, during 1997-98.
Analytical chemistry — trace level analysis — Science education and importance of basic research
J. Preston Miles John C. Walkup Professor of Chemistry
B.A., Centre College; Ph.D., University of Kentucky
859-238-5414 preston.miles@centre.edu
An analytical chemist who worked in research and development in private industry before joining the Centre faculty. Deeply committed to collaborative research bringing together students and faculty. Recent research with a Centre student investigating how temperature affects the solubility of a form of carbon molecule known as carbon 60 or C-60 ("fullerenes"). He has developed a number of successful grant proposals on behalf of the sciences at Centre.
Organic chemistry — Electrochemistry — Photochemistry — Use of chemical evidence in criminal court cases
Jennifer Muzyka Associate Professor of Chemistry
B.S., University of Dallas; Ph.D., University of Texas
859-238-5413 jennifer.muzyka@centre.edu
An organic chemist currently examining electrochemically mediated cycloaddition reactions. Committed to working with her students in collaborative research. Designed and teaches a science and public policy course entitled "Chemistry and Crime." Active in chemistry education in the surrounding region, taking chemistry magic shows to local elementary schools.
Inorganic chemistry, photochemistry, and organotransition metal chemistry — Strong personal interest in American folk music
Conrad F. Shiba Associate Professor of Chemistry
B.S., Michigan State University; M.S., The Ohio State University; Ph.D., Carnegie Mellon University
859-238-5416 conrad.shiba@centre.edu
Teaching and research interests in inorganic chemistry, especially the photochemistry of coordination compounds and organotransition metal chemistry. Articles in the Journal of Organometallic Chemistry and the Journal of Chemical Education. Strong interest and skill in American folk music, formerly playing banjo and guitar with the Raggedy Robin String Band, which appeared on CBS and KET.
Inorganic chemistry — Liquid crystals — Advisement for pre-medical students
Joe M. Workman
Associate Professor of Chemistry; chief health professions advisor
B.S., Santa Clara University; Ph.D., Carnegie Mellon University
859-238-5415 joe.workman@centre.edu
Inorganic chemist with expertise on liquid crystals. Currently investigating a relatively new form of liquid crystal that contains metal ions. Has collaborated with students in research teams each summer since coming to Centre; his former students have won awards including Fulbright Scholarships. Academic advisor to students interested in pre-medical studies. Helped Centre secure a high field nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectrometer.
