DEPARTMENT OF CHEMISTRY

DEPARTMENT OF CHEMISTRY to graduate study and those who intend to pursue a professional
career immediately in either chemistry or an allied eld, such as
medicine, in which a sound knowledge of chemistry is important.
Chemistry is the study of the world of atoms, molecules, and solids.
Students receive thorough instruction in the principles of chemistry,
Chemists are both students and architects of this miniature universe,
supplemented by a strong foundation in mathematics, physics,
exploring the changes that occur, discovering the principles that
biology, and the humanities. The Department of Chemistry also
govern these chemical changes, and devising ways to create entirely
teaches courses jointly with the departments of Biology, Chemical
new classes of compounds and materials. Previous triumphs of
Engineering, Biological Engineering, and Materials Science and
chemistry include the synthesis of pharmaceuticals and agricultural
Engineering. Students at all levels are encouraged to undertake
products, while current challenges include chemical memory,
original research under the supervision of a member of the chemistry
solar cells, superconductors, clean fuels, batteries, and the
faculty.
solution of numerous important problems relating to health and the
environment.
Flexible Chemistry Option
The Department of Chemistry (http://chemistry.mit.edu) oers The Flexible Chemistry Option (http://catalog.mit.edu/degree-charts/
the Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degrees. chemistry-course-5/#flexibleoptiontext), “ChemFlex,” is designed to
The department's program of teaching and research spans the provide an education both for those who intend to pursue chemistry
breadth of chemistry. General areas covered include biological as a career and for those who plan to go into an allied eld, such as
chemistry, inorganic chemistry, organic chemistry, and physical biotechnology or scientic consulting, in which a sound knowledge
chemistry. Some of the activities of the department, especially of chemistry is important. Students receive thorough instruction in
those that involve "translational research" (the application of the principles of chemistry, supplemented by a strong foundation
basic science to practical problems) are carried out in association in mathematics, physics, biology, and the humanities. This training
with interdisciplinary laboratories and centers. See the section on can be tailored to the student's interests by the judicious choice of
Research and Study for more information (http://catalog.mit.edu/ elective focus subjects that contribute to the major. The Department
mit/research). of Chemistry also teaches courses jointly with the departments of
Biology, Chemical Engineering, Biological Engineering, and Materials
The Bachelor of Science (p. 3) degree provides rigorous Science and Engineering. The student's faculty advisor can oer
education in the fundamental areas of chemical and biochemical suggestions for elective subjects that are of value in preparation for
knowledge and experimentation. Undergraduate students specialization in the various broad areas of chemistry. The proper
are encouraged to participate in the Undergraduate Research choice of electives is particularly important for students planning
Opportunities Program (UROP) (http://catalog.mit.edu/mit/ to continue their education in a graduate program. Students at all
undergraduate-education/academic-research-options/ levels are encouraged to undertake original research.
undergraduate-research-opportunities-program) and to take
graduate-level chemistry classes as well as subjects in other Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and Biology (Course 5-7)
departments at the Institute, Harvard University, or Wellesley The Departments of Biology and Chemistry jointly oer a Bachelor
College. of Science in Chemistry and Biology (http://catalog.mit.edu/degree-
charts/chemistry-biology-course-5-7). A detailed description of
The Doctor of Philosophy (p. 4) degree trains students to be
the requirements for this degree program (http://catalog.mit.edu/
world leaders in scientic research and education. In addition to
interdisciplinary/undergraduate-programs/degrees/chemistry-
formal coursework, each student undertakes a research problem that
biology) can be found in the section on Interdisciplinary Programs.
forms the core of graduate work. Graduate- and postgraduate-level
research is oen carried out in collaboration with scientists in other
Minor in Chemistry
facilities and interdisciplinary laboratories.
The requirements for a Minor in Chemistry are as follows:

Requirements
Undergraduate Study 5.03 Principles of Inorganic Chemistry I 12
5.12 Organic Chemistry I 12
Bachelor of Science in Chemistry (Course 5) 1
5.310 Laboratory Chemistry 12
Standard Chemistry Option 5.601 Thermodynamics I 6
The Department of Chemistry oers an undergraduate program 5.602 Thermodynamics II and Kinetics 6
(http://catalog.mit.edu/degree-charts/chemistry-course-5) Select 24 units of the following: 24
suciently broad as to provide excellent preparation for careers in 5.04 Principles of Inorganic Chemistry II
many dierent areas of chemistry. Course 5 is designed to provide
5.07[J] Introduction to Biological Chemistry
an education based on science, both for those who intend to go on

Department of Chemistry   |   3
DEPARTMENT OF CHEMISTRY

5.08[J] Fundamentals of Chemical Biology Research and Study. These interdisciplinary research laboratories
5.13 Organic Chemistry II provide stimulating interaction among the research programs of
several MIT departments and give students opportunities to become
5.361 Expression and Purication of
familiar with research work in disciplines other than chemistry.
Enzyme Mutants
The department also participates in the interdisciplinary graduate
5.362 Kinetics of Enzyme Inhibition
Program in Polymers and So Matter, the Biotechnology Training
5.363 Organic Structure Determination Program, the Microbiology Program, and the Biophysics Certicate
5.371 Continuous Flow Chemistry: Program.
Sustainable Conversion of Reclaimed
Vegetable Oil into Biodiesel Admission Requirements for Graduate Study
5.372 Chemistry of Renewable Energy Students intending to do graduate work in the Chemistry Department
5.373 Dinitrogen Cleavage should have excellent undergraduate preparation in chemistry. The
department is flexible with respect to specic course preparation;
5.43 Advanced Organic Chemistry
the essential requirement is demonstration of ability to progress
5.611 Introduction to Spectroscopy
with advanced study and research in some area of special interest.
5.612 Electronic Structure of Molecules However, mathematics and physics are important prerequisites for
5.62 Physical Chemistry graduate work in physical chemistry or chemical physics, whereas
Total Units 72 less preparation in these areas is required for work in organic
chemistry.
1
 The combination of 5.351 Fundamentals of Spectroscopy, 5.352 Synthesis
of Coordination Compounds and Kinetics, and 5.353 Macromolecular Applicants to the Chemistry Department are required to submit
Prodrugs is an acceptable alternative. scores from the verbal and quantitative sections of the Graduate
Record Examination. Scores on the advanced examinations are
Minor in Atmospheric Chemistry optional.
The Minor in Atmospheric Chemistry (http://catalog.mit.edu/
interdisciplinary/undergraduate-programs/minors/atmospheric- Doctor of Philosophy
chemistry), oered jointly with the Departments of Earth, The Chemistry Department does not have any formal subject
Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences and Civil and Environmental requirements for the doctoral degree. Each student, with the advice
Engineering, blends fundamental science with engineering and of a research supervisor, pursues an individual program of study
policy. For a description of the minor, see Interdisciplinary Programs. that is pertinent to the student's long-range research interests. All
students are required to serve as a teaching assistant for two terms,
Inquiries usually during the rst year.
Additional information may be obtained from the Chemistry
During the rst term of residence, all graduate students are
Education Oce, Room 6-205, 617-253-7271.
encouraged to select research supervisors who serve as their
advisors for the balance of their graduate careers. In particular,
the overall program of graduate subjects is established by each
Graduate Study
student in consultation with the research supervisor. In planning
The Department of Chemistry oers the Doctor of Philosophy this program and in establishing the thesis problem, careful
degree. The subjects oered aim to develop a sound knowledge of consideration is given to the candidate's academic record and
fundamentals and a familiarity with current progress in the most professional experience, as well as to long-range objectives.
active and important areas of chemistry. In addition to studying
A comprehensive oral examination in the candidate's major eld of
formal subjects, each student undertakes a research problem
advanced study is held generally in the fourth term of residence.
that forms the core of graduate work. Through the experience of
Progress in the student's research is also examined at that time.
conducting an investigation leading to the doctoral thesis, a student
Fulllment of the written exam requirement varies by research area.
learns general methods of approach and acquires training in some of
A nal oral presentation on the subject of the doctoral research is
the specialized techniques of research.
scheduled aer the thesis has been submitted and evaluated by a
The areas of research (https://chemistry.mit.edu/areas-of-research) committee of examiners.
in the department include chemical biology, environmental,
inorganic, materials, organic and physical chemistry, broadly Interdisciplinary Programs
dened. Chemical research frequently involves more than one of the
traditional subelds. Some research activities of the department Polymers and So Matter
are carried out in association with interdisciplinary laboratories The Program in Polymers and So Matter (PPSM) (http://
and centers (http://catalog.mit.edu/mit/research) as described in polymerscience.mit.edu) oers students from participating

4   |   Department of Chemistry
 DEPARTMENT OF CHEMISTRY

departments an interdisciplinary core curriculum in polymer science Sylvia Ceyer, PhD

and engineering, exposure to the broader polymer community John C. Sheehan Professor
through seminars, contact with visitors from industry and academia, Professor of Chemistry
and interdepartmental collaboration while working towards a PhD or
ScD degree. Arup K. Chakraborty, PhD
Robert T. Haslam (1911) Professor in Chemical Engineering
Research opportunities include functional polymers, controlled Professor of Chemistry
drug delivery, nanostructured polymers, polymers at interfaces, Professor of Physics
biomaterials, molecular modeling, polymer synthesis, biomimetic Core Faculty, Institute for Medical Engineering and Science
materials, polymer mechanics and rheology, self-assembly, and
polymers in energy. The program is described in more detail (http:// Christopher C. Cummins, PhD
catalog.mit.edu/interdisciplinary/graduate-programs/polymers-so- Henry Dreyfus Professor
matter) under Interdisciplinary Graduate Programs. Professor of Chemistry

Rick Lane Danheiser, PhD

Financial Support Arthur C. Cope Professor
The department usually appoints rst-year graduate students as Professor of Chemistry
teaching assistants (TAs). TAs are assigned either to laboratory
subjects or to discussion sections of lecture subjects. Most students Mircea Dinca, PhD
receive appointments to research assistantships aer their rst year, W. M. Keck Professor of Energy
and departmental fellowships are also available. Financial support Professor of Chemistry
aer the rst academic year is subject to the availability of funds and
provided for students who maintain a satisfactory record. Catherine L. Drennan, PhD
Professor of Biology
Inquiries Professor of Chemistry
Correspondence about the graduate program or appointments John M. Essigmann, PhD
should be addressed to the Chemistry Education Oce, Room 6-205, William R. (1956) and Betsy P. Leitch Professor in Residence
617-253-1851. Professor of Toxicology and Biological Engineering
Professor of Chemistry
(On leave, fall)
Faculty and Teaching Sta
Robert W. Field, ScD, PhD
Troy Van Voorhis, PhD
Robert T. Haslam and Bradley Dewey Professor
Robert T. Haslam and Bradley Dewey Professor
Professor of Chemistry
Professor of Chemistry
Head, Department of Chemistry Robert G. Grin, PhD
Arthur Amos Noyes Professor
Stephen Leler Buchwald, PhD
Professor of Chemistry
Camille Dreyfus Professor
Professor of Chemistry Mei Hong, PhD
Associate Head, Department of Chemistry Professor of Chemistry
(On leave, spring)
Elizabeth M. Nolan, PhD
Ivan R. Cottrell Professor of Immunology Barbara Imperiali, PhD
Professor of Chemistry Class of 1922 Professor
Associate Head, Department of Chemistry Professor of Biology
Professor of Chemistry
Professors
Moungi G. Bawendi, PhD Timothy F. Jamison, PhD
Lester Wolfe Professor Robert R. Taylor Professor
Professor of Chemistry Professor of Chemistry
Associate Provost
Jianshu Cao, PhD
Professor of Chemistry Jeremiah A. Johnson, PhD
(On leave, spring) Professor of Chemistry

Department of Chemistry   |   5
DEPARTMENT OF CHEMISTRY

Laura L. Kiessling, PhD

Novartis Professor Assistant Professors
Professor of Chemistry Brett McGuire, PhD
Assistant Professor of Chemistry
Mohammad Movassaghi, PhD
Professor of Chemistry Daniel Suess, PhD
Class of ’48 Career Development Professor
Keith Adam Nelson, PhD Assistant Professor of Chemistry
Robert T. Haslam and Bradley Dewey Professor
Professor of Chemistry Xiao Wang, PhD
Thomas D. and Virginia W. Cabot Professor
Ronald Raines, PhD Assistant Professor of Chemistry
Roger and Georges Firmenich Professor
Professor of Chemistry Alison Wendlandt, PhD
Cecil and Ida Green Career Development Professor
Susan Solomon, PhD Assistant Professor of Chemistry
Lee and Geraldine Martin Professor in Environmental Studies
Professor of Atmospheric Chemistry and Climate Science Bin Zhang, PhD
Professor of Chemistry Pzer Laubach Career Development Professor
Assistant Professor of Chemistry
Timothy M. Swager, PhD
John D. MacArthur Professor Instructors
Professor of Chemistry Kelley Danahy, PhD
Steven R. Tannenbaum, PhD Instructor of Chemistry
Underwood-Prescott Professor Post-Tenure David Grimes, PhD
Professor Post-Tenure of Toxicology and Biological Engineering Instructor of Chemistry
Professor Post-Tenure of Chemistry
Alisa Krishtal, PhD
Associate Professors Instructor of Chemistry
Bradley L. Pentelute, PhD
Associate Professor of Chemistry Technical Instructors
John J. Dolhun, PhD
Alexander Radosevich, PhD Technical Instructor of Chemistry
Associate Professor of Chemistry
Sarah Hewett, PhD
Gabriela Schlau-Cohen, PhD Technical Instructor of Chemistry
Associate Professor of Chemistry
(On leave, fall)
Research Sta
Alex K. Shalek, PhD
Associate Professor of Chemistry Principal Research Scientists
Core Faculty, Institute for Medical Engineering and Science Peter Mueller, PhD
Principal Research Scientist of Chemistry
Matthew D. Shoulders, PhD
Whitehead Career Development Professor Research Scientists
Associate Professor of Chemistry Rachel L. Beingessner, PhD
Yogesh Surendranath, PhD Research Scientist of Chemistry
Paul M. Cook Career Development Professor Jeon Woong Kang, PhD
Associate Professor of Chemistry Research Scientist of Chemistry
Adam P. Willard, PhD Mohanraja Kumar, PhD
Associate Professor of Chemistry Research Scientist of Chemistry

Andrei Loas, PhD

Research Scientist of Chemistry

6   |   Department of Chemistry
 DEPARTMENT OF CHEMISTRY

Sayaka Masuko, PhD

Research Scientist of Chemistry 5.00[J] Energy Technology and Policy: From Principles to
Practice
Alexei Maznev, PhD Same subject as 6.929[J], 10.579[J], 22.813[J]
Research Scientist of Chemistry Prereq: None
Michel Nasilowski, PhD G (Fall; rst half of term)
Research Scientist of Chemistry Not oered regularly; consult department
3-0-6 units
Zahid Yaqoob, PhD
Research Scientist of Chemistry Develops analytical skills to lead a successful technology
implementation with an integrated approach that combines
Research Specialists technical, economical and social perspectives. Considers corporate
Bruce Adams, PhD and government viewpoints as well as international aspects,
Research Specialist of Chemistry such as nuclear weapons proliferation and global climate issues.
Discusses technologies such as oil and gas, nuclear, solar, and
Gang Liu, PhD energy eciency. Limited to 100.
Research Specialist of Chemistry J. Deutch

Professors Emeriti 5.000[J] Dimensions of Geoengineering (New)

Same subject as 1.850[J], 10.600[J], 11.388[J], 12.884[J], 15.036[J],
John M. Deutch, PhD 16.645[J]
Institute Professor Emeritus Prereq: None
Professor Emeritus of Chemistry G (Fall; rst half of term)
2-0-4 units
Frederick D. Greene, ScD, PhD
Professor Emeritus of Chemistry Familiarizes students with the potential contributions and risks of
using geoengineering technologies to control climate damage from
Alexander M. Klibanov, PhD
global warming caused by greenhouse gas emissions. Discusses
Novartis Professor Emeritus
geoengineering in relation to other climate change responses:
Professor Emeritus of Chemistry
reducing emissions, removing CO2 from the atmosphere, and
Professor Emeritus of Bioengineering
adapting to the impacts of climate change. Limited to 100.
Stephen J. Lippard, PhD J. Deutch, M. Zuber
Arthur Amos Noyes Professor Emeritus
Professor Emeritus of Chemistry 5.001 Frontiers in Molecular and Materials Science
Prereq: None
Richard Royce Schrock, PhD U (Spring)
Frederick George Keyes Professor Emeritus Not oered regularly; consult department
Professor Emeritus of Chemistry 2-0-0 units

Jerey I. Steinfeld, PhD Provides an interactive forum for students who want to know more
Professor Emeritus of Chemistry about the cutting edge of chemistry. Explores how chemistry unlocks
the secrets of life and the world around us, saves lives, changes the
JoAnne Stubbe, PhD
environment, and ts into the tech startup ecosystem. Emphasizes
Novartis Professor Emerita
modern illustrations of the power and wonder of chemistry. Subject
Professor Emerita of Chemistry
can count toward the 9-unit discovery-focused credit limit for rst
Professor Emerita of Biology
year students.
Gerald N. Wogan, PhD J. Johnson
Professor Emeritus of Biological Engineering
Professor Emeritus of Chemistry

Department of Chemistry   |   7
DEPARTMENT OF CHEMISTRY

5.002[J] Viruses, Pandemics, and Immunity (New) 5.05 Principles of Inorganic Chemistry III
Same subject as 10.380[J], HST.438[J] Prereq: 5.03; Coreq: 5.04
Subject meets with 5.003[J], 8.245[J], 10.382[J], HST.439[J] G (Fall)
Prereq: None 2-0-4 units
U (Spring)
2-0-1 units Principles of main group (s and p block) element chemistry with
an emphasis on synthesis, structure, bonding, and reaction
See description under subject HST.438[J]. Preference to rst-year mechanisms.
students; all others should take HST.439[J]. C. C. Cummins
A. Chakraborty
5.061 Principles of Organometallic Chemistry
5.003[J] Viruses, Pandemics, and Immunity (New) Prereq: 5.03
Same subject as 8.245[J], 10.382[J], HST.439[J] G (Spring; rst half of term)
Subject meets with 5.002[J], 10.380[J], HST.438[J] 2-0-4 units
Prereq: None
U (Spring) A comprehensive treatment of organometallic compounds of the
2-0-1 units transition metals with emphasis on structure, bonding, synthesis,
and mechanism.
See description under subject HST.439[J]. HST.438[J] intended for C. Cummins
rst-year students; all others should take HST.439[J].
A. Chakraborty 5.062 Principles of Bioinorganic Chemistry
Prereq: 5.03
5.03 Principles of Inorganic Chemistry I G (Fall; rst half of term)
Prereq: 5.12 2-0-4 units
U (Spring)
5-0-7 units Delineates principles that form the basis for understanding how
metal ions function in biology. Examples chosen from recent
Presents principles of chemical bonding and molecular structure, literature on a range of topics, including the global biogeochemical
and their application to the chemistry of representative elements of cycles of the elements; choice, uptake and assembly of metal-
the periodic system. containing units; structure, function and biosynthesis of complex
D. Suess, Y. Surendranath metallocofactors; electron-transfer and redox chemistry; atom
and group transfer chemistry; protein tuning of metal properties;
5.04 Principles of Inorganic Chemistry II metalloprotein engineering and design; and applications to
Prereq: 5.03 diagnosis and treatment of disease.
U (Fall) D. Suess
4-0-8 units
5.063 Organometallic Compounds in Catalytic Reactions
Systematic presentation of the chemical applications of group Prereq: 5.061
theory. Emphasis on the formal development of the subject and G (Spring; rst half of term)
its applications to the physical methods of inorganic chemical Not oered regularly; consult department
compounds. Against the backdrop of electronic structure, the 2-0-4 units
electronic, vibrational, and magnetic properties of transition metal
complexes are presented and their investigation by the appropriate An exploration of organometallic chemistry from the perspective of
spectroscopy described. catalytic reactions in organic and polymer chemistry.
A. Radosevich, Y. Surendranath C. Cummins

8   |   Department of Chemistry
 DEPARTMENT OF CHEMISTRY

5.067 Crystal Structure Renement 5.07[J] Introduction to Biological Chemistry

Prereq: 5.069 or permission of instructor Same subject as 20.507[J]
Acad Year 2020-2021: Not oered Prereq: 5.12
Acad Year 2021-2022: G (Fall) U (Fall)
2-3-1 units 5-0-7 units. REST
Credit cannot also be received for 7.05
Practical aspects of crystal structure determination from data
collection strategies to data reduction and basic and advanced Chemical and physical properties of the cell and its building blocks.
renement problems of organic and inorganic molecules. Structures of proteins and principles of catalysis. The chemistry of
P. Mueller organic/inorganic cofactors required for chemical transformations
within the cell. Basic principles of metabolism and regulation
5.068 Physical Inorganic Chemistry in pathways, including glycolysis, gluconeogenesis, fatty acid
Prereq: 5.03 and 5.04 synthesis/degradation, pentose phosphate pathway, Krebs cycle
G (Spring; second half of term) and oxidative phosphorylation, DNA replication, and transcription
3-0-3 units and translation.
A. Krishtal, B. Pentelute
Discusses the physical methods used to probe the electronic and
geometric structures of inorganic compounds, with additional 5.08[J] Fundamentals of Chemical Biology
techniques employed in the characterization of inorganic solids and Same subject as 7.08[J]
surfaces. Includes vibrational spectroscopy, solid state and solution Subject meets with 7.80
magnetochemical methods, Mössbauer spectroscopy, electron Prereq: (Biology (GIR), 5.13, and (5.07[J] or 7.05)) or permission of
paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy, electrochemical methods, instructor
and a brief survey of surface techniques. Applications to current U (Spring)
research problems in inorganic and solid-state chemistry. 4-0-8 units
M. Dinca
Spanning the elds of biology, chemistry, and engineering, this
5.069 Crystal Structure Analysis class introduces students to the principles of chemical biology and
Prereq: 5.03 and 5.04 the application of chemical and physical methods and reagents to
G (Spring; rst half of term) the study and manipulation of biological systems. Topics include
2-0-4 units nucleic acid structure, recognition, and manipulation; protein
folding and stability, and proteostasis; bioorthogonal reactions
Introduction to X-ray crystallography: symmetry in real and reciprocal and activity-based protein proling; chemical genetics and small-
space, space and Laue groups, geometry of diraction, structure molecule inhibitor screening; fluorescent probes for biological
factors, phase problem, direct and Patterson methods, electron analysis and imaging; and unnatural amino acid mutagenesis.
density maps, structure renement, crystal growth, powder The class will also discuss the logic of dynamic post-translational
methods, limits of diraction methods, structure data bases. modication reactions with an emphasis on chemical biology
P. Mueller approaches for studying complex processes including glycosylation,
phosphorylation, and lipidation. Students taking the graduate
version are expected to explore the subject in greater depth.
B. Imperiali, L. Kiessling, R. Raines

Department of Chemistry   |   9
DEPARTMENT OF CHEMISTRY

5.111 Principles of Chemical Science 5.24[J] Archaeological Science

Prereq: None Same subject as 3.985[J], 12.011[J]
U (Fall, Spring) Prereq: Chemistry (GIR) or Physics I (GIR)
5-0-7 units. CHEMISTRY U (Spring)
Credit cannot also be received for 3.091, 5.112, CC.5111, ES.5111, 3-1-5 units. HASS-S
ES.5112
See description under subject 3.985[J].
Introduction to chemistry, with emphasis on basic principles D. Hosler, H. N. Lechtman
of atomic and molecular electronic structure, thermodynamics,
acid-base and redox equilibria, chemical kinetics, and catalysis. 5.301 Chemistry Laboratory Techniques
Introduction to the chemistry of biological, inorganic, and organic Prereq: Chemistry (GIR) and permission of instructor
molecules. Acad Year 2020-2021: Not oered
K. Nelson, M. Shoulders M. Hong, B. Pentelute Acad Year 2021-2022: U (IAP)
1-4-1 units
5.112 Principles of Chemical Science
Prereq: None Practical training in basic chemistry laboratory techniques. Intended
U (Fall) to provide students with the skills necessary to undertake original
5-0-7 units. CHEMISTRY research projects in chemistry. Limited to rst-year students in IAP
Credit cannot also be received for 3.091, 5.111, CC.5111, ES.5111, (application required); open to all students in spring (enrollment by
ES.5112 lottery).
J. Dolhun
Introduction to chemistry for students who have taken two or
more years of high school chemistry or who have earned a score 5.302 Introduction to Experimental Chemistry
of at least 4 on the ETS Advanced Placement Exam.  Emphasis Prereq: None
on basic principles of atomic and molecular electronic structure, Acad Year 2020-2021: Not oered
thermodynamics, acid-base and redox equilibria, chemical kinetics, Acad Year 2021-2022: U (IAP; partial term)
and catalysis. Applications of basic principles to problems in metal 0-3-0 units
coordination chemistry, organic chemistry, and biological chemistry.
S. Ceyer, M. Dinca Illustrates fundamental principles of chemical science through
practical experience with chemical phenomena. Students explore
5.12 Organic Chemistry I the theoretical concepts of chemistry through the experiments which
Prereq: Chemistry (GIR) informed their discovery, and make chemistry happen with activities
U (Fall, Spring) that are intellectually stimulating and fun. Preference to rst-year
5-0-7 units. REST students.
Credit cannot also be received for CC.512 J. Dolhun, M. Shoulders

Introduction to organic chemistry. Development of basic principles 5.310 Laboratory Chemistry

to understand the structure and reactivity of organic molecules. Subject meets with 5.S310
Emphasis on substitution and elimination reactions and chemistry Prereq: None. Coreq: 5.12
of the carbonyl group. Introduction to the chemistry of aromatic U (Fall, Spring)
compounds. 2-8-2 units. Institute LAB
J. Johnson, E. Vogel Taylor, R. Danheiser, K. Danahy
Introduces experimental chemistry for students who are not majoring
5.13 Organic Chemistry II in Course 5. Principles and applications of chemical laboratory
Prereq: 5.12 techniques, including preparation and analysis of chemical
U (Fall) materials, measurement of pH, gas and liquid chromatography,
5-0-7 units visible-ultraviolet spectrophotometry, infrared spectroscopy,
kinetics, data analysis, and elementary synthesis, are described, in
Focuses on synthesis, structure determination, mechanism, and addition to experimental design principles. Includes instruction and
the relationships between structure and reactivity. Selected topics practice in written and oral communication to multiple audiences.
illustrate the role of organic chemistry in biological systems and in Enrollment limited.
the chemical industry. Information: J. Dolhun
L. Kiessling

10   |   Department of Chemistry
 DEPARTMENT OF CHEMISTRY

5.351 Fundamentals of Spectroscopy 5.361 Expression and Purication of Enzyme Mutants

Prereq: Chemistry (GIR) Prereq: (5.07[J] or 7.05) and (5.310 or 5.352)
U (Spring; partial term) U (Fall, Spring; partial term)
1-2-1 units. Partial Lab 1-2-1 units

Students carry out an experiment that introduces fundamental Students use biochemical techniques for protein expression and DNA
principles of the most common types of spectroscopy, including manipulation of Bcr-Abl kinase, which is inhibited by the blockbuster
UV-visible absorption and fluorescence, infrared, and nuclear drug Gleevec in the treatment of chronic myelogenous leukemia.
magnetic resonance. Emphasizes principles of how light interacts Uses various standard bioanalytical and biochemical methods in lab
with matter, a fundamental and hands-on understanding of how to characterize and produce this protein.
spectrometers work, and what can be learned through spectroscopy B. Pentelute
about prototype molecules and materials. Students record and
analyze spectra of small organic molecules, native and denatured 5.362 Kinetics of Enzyme Inhibition
proteins, semiconductor quantum dots, and laser crystals. Satises Prereq: (5.07[J] or 7.05) and (5.310 or 5.352); Coreq: 5.361
4 units of Institute Laboratory credit. U (Fall, Spring; partial term)
K. Nelson 1-2-2 units

5.352 Synthesis of Coordination Compounds and Kinetics Students study the activity and structure of the domains developed
Prereq: None. Coreq: 5.351 in 5.361 to understand the role of mutations in the development
U (Fall, Spring; partial term) of resistance to Gleevec. Students assay both mutant and wild-
1-2-2 units. Partial Lab type Abl kinase domains for phosphorylation activity to determine
enzyme kinetics and the inhibition ecacy of Gleevec. They conduct
Students carry out an experiment that provides an introduction additional testing on kinase activity of Gleevec-resistant mutants in
to the synthesis of simple coordination compounds and chemical the presence of other potential inhibitors. Uses structure-viewing
kinetics. Illustrates cobalt coordination chemistry and its programs to enable analysis of the mechanistic basis of Bcr-Abl
transformations as detected by visible spectroscopy. Students inhibition and Gleevec-resistance.
observe isosbestic points in visible spectra, determine the rate and B. Pentelute
rate law, measure the rate constant at several temperatures, and
derive the activation energy for the aquation reaction. Satises 5 5.363 Organic Structure Determination
units of Institute Laboratory credit. Prereq: 5.12; Coreq: 5.13
Y. Surendranath U (Fall; partial term)
1-2-1 units. Partial Lab
5.353 Macromolecular Prodrugs
Prereq: None. Coreq: 5.12 and 5.352 Introduces modern methods for the elucidation of the structure of
U (Spring; partial term) organic compounds. Students carry out transition metal-catalyzed
1-2-1 units. Partial Lab coupling reactions, based on chemistry developed in the Buchwald
laboratory, using reactants of unknown structure. Students also
Students carry out an experiment that builds skills in how to perform full spectroscopic characterization - by proton and carbon
rationally design macromolecules for drug delivery based on NMR, IR, and mass spectrometry of the reactants - and carry
fundamental principles of physical organic chemistry. Begins with out coupling products in order to identify the structures of each
conjugation of a drug molecule to a polymerizable group through compound. Other techniques include transfer and manipulation of
a cleavable linker to generate a prodrug monomer. Continues organic and organometallic reagents and compounds, separation by
with polymerization of monomer to produce macromolecular extraction, and purication by column chromatography. Satises 4
(i.e., polymer) prodrug; monomer and polymer prodrugs are fully units of Institute Laboratory credit.
characterized. Rate of drug release is measured and correlated to the S. Buchwald
size of the macromolecule as well as the structure of the cleavable
linker. Satises 4 units of Institute Laboratory credit.
J. Johnson, K. Danahy

Department of Chemistry   |   11
DEPARTMENT OF CHEMISTRY

5.371 Continuous Flow Chemistry: Sustainable Conversion of 5.381 Quantum Dots

Reclaimed Vegetable Oil into Biodiesel Prereq: 5.353 and 5.61
Prereq: 5.13 and 5.363 U (Spring; partial term)
U (Spring; partial term) 1-2-1 units
1-2-1 units
Covers synthesis of a discrete size series of quantum dots, followed
Presents the theoretical and practical fundamentals of continuous by synthesis of a single size of core/shell quantum dots utilizing
flow synthesis, wherein pumps, tubes, and connectors are used air-free Schlenk manipulation of precursors. Uses characterization
to conduct chemical reactions instead of flasks, beakers, etc. by absorption and fluorescence spectroscopies to rationalize the
Focuses on a catalytic reaction that converts natural vegetable compositional/size dependence of the shell on the electronic
oil into biodiesel that can be used in a variety of combustion structure of the quantum dots. Students acquire time traces of the
engines. Provides instruction in several important organic chemistry fluorescence of single core and core/shell quantum dots using single
experimental techniques, including purication by extraction, rotary molecule spectroscopic tools. The fluorescence on/o blinking
1
evaporation, acid-base titration, gas chromatography (GC), and H distribution observed will be t to a standard model. Students
NMR. use Matlab for computational modeling of the electron and hole
T. Jamison wavefunction in core and core/shell quantum dots. Analyzes several
commercial applications of quantum dot technologies.
5.372 Chemistry of Renewable Energy M. Bawendi
Prereq: 5.03 and 5.352
U (Fall; partial term) 5.382 Time- and Frequency-resolved Spectroscopy of
1-2-1 units Photosynthesis
Prereq: 5.611 and (5.07[J] or 7.05); Coreq: 5.361
Introduces the electrochemical processes that underlie renewable U (Spring; partial term)
energy storage and recovery. Students investigate charge transfer 1-2-2 units
reactions at electrode surfaces that are critical to the operation of
advanced batteries, fuel cells, and electrolyzers. Develops basic Uses time- and frequency-resolved fluorescence measurements to
theory behind inner- and outer-sphere charge transfer reactions at investigate photosynthetic light harvesting and energy transfer.
interfaces and applies this theory to construct mechanistic models G. Schlau-Cohen
for important energy conversion reactions including the reduction
of O2 to water and the reduction of protons to H2. Students will 5.383 Fast-flow Peptide and Protein Synthesis
also synthesize new catalytic materials for these reactions and Prereq: 5.363 and (5.07[J] or 7.05)
investigate their relative performance. U (Spring; partial term)
Y. Surendranath 1-2-1 units

5.373 Dinitrogen Cleavage Develops understanding of both the theory and practice of
Prereq: 5.03 and 5.363; Coreq: 5.61 fundamental techniques in biological chemistry, including chemical
U (Fall; partial term) reactivity (amide-bond formation, solid phase synthesis, disulde
1-2-1 units bond formation, and protecting group chemistry); separation science
for purication and analysis, such as preparative HPLC and MALDI-
Introduces the research area of small-molecule activation by TOF MS; and protein structure-function relationships (protein folding
transition-element complexes. Covers techniques such as glove- and binding). Periodically, guest lecturers from the local biotech
box methods for synthesis for exclusion of oxygen and water; research community will describe practical applications in industry.
ltration, reaction mixture concentration, and recrystallization under B. Pentelute
a dinitrogen atmosphere and under static vacuum. Characterization
methods include proton NMR spectroscopy of both paramagnetic
and diamagnetic systems, Evans method magnetic susceptibility
measurement, UV-Vis spectroscopy, and infrared spectroscopy of a
metal-nitrogen triple bond system.
C. Cummins

12   |   Department of Chemistry
 DEPARTMENT OF CHEMISTRY

5.39 Research and Communication in Chemistry 5.45 Heterocyclic Chemistry

Prereq: An approved research experience and permission of Prereq: 5.511 and 5.53
instructor G (Spring; rst half of term)
U (Spring) 2-0-4 units
2-12-6 units
Provides an introduction to the chemistry of heterocyclic
Independent research under the direction of a member of the compounds. Surveys synthesis and reactivity of the major classes of
Chemistry Department faculty. Allows students with a strong heterocyclic organic compounds. Discusses the importance of these
interest in independent research to fulll  part of the laboratory molecules in the pharmaceutical and other industries.
requirement for the Chemistry Department Program in the context S. Buchwald
of a research laboratory at MIT. The research must be conducted on
the MIT campus and be a continuation of a previous 12-unit UROP 5.46 NMR Spectroscopy and Organic Structure Determination
project or full-time work over the summer. Instruction and practice Prereq: 5.43
in written and oral communication is provided, culminating in a Acad Year 2020-2021: Not oered
poster presentation of the work at the annual departmental UROP Acad Year 2021-2022: G (Spring; second half of term)
symposium and a research publication-style writeup of the results. 2-0-4 units
  Permission of the faculty research supervisor and the Chemistry
Education Oce must be obtained in advance. Applications of multinuclear NMR spectroscopy to the study of
A. Radosevich organic compounds.
W. Massefski
5.43 Advanced Organic Chemistry
Prereq: 5.13 5.47 Tutorial in Organic Chemistry
U (Fall) Prereq: 5.43 and permission of instructor
4-0-8 units G (Fall; partial term)
Credit cannot also be received for 5.53 2-0-4 units

Reaction mechanisms in organic chemistry: methods of Systematic review of basic principles concerned with the structure
investigation, relation of structure to reactivity, and reactive and transformations of organic molecules. Problem-solving
intermediates. Photochemistry and organometallic chemistry, with workshop format. The program is intended primarily for rst-year
an emphasis on fundamental reactivity, mechanistic studies, and graduate students with a strong interest in organic chemistry. Meets
applications in organic chemistry. during the month of September.
T. Swager M. Movassaghi

5.44 Organometallic Chemistry 5.511 Synthetic Organic Chemistry I

Prereq: 5.061, 5.43, 5.47, or permission of instructor Prereq: 5.43
Acad Year 2020-2021: Not oered G (Fall; second half of term)
Acad Year 2021-2022: G (Spring; second half of term) 2-0-4 units
2-0-4 units Introduction to the design of syntheses of complex organic
Examination of the most important transformations of compounds.
organotransition-metal species. Emphasizes basic mechanisms of M. Movassaghi
their reactions, structure-reactivity relationships, and applications in
synthesis. 5.512 Synthetic Organic Chemistry II
A. Wendlandt Prereq: 5.511
Acad Year 2020-2021: G (Spring; second half of term)
Acad Year 2021-2022: Not oered
2-0-4 units

General methods and strategies for the synthesis of complex organic

compounds.
Sta

Department of Chemistry   |   13
DEPARTMENT OF CHEMISTRY

5.52 Tutorial in Chemical Biology 5.561 Chemistry in Industry

Prereq: Permission of instructor Prereq: 5.03, 5.13, and (5.07[J] or 7.05)
G (Fall) Acad Year 2020-2021: Not oered
2-0-4 units Acad Year 2021-2022: G (Spring; second half of term)
2-0-4 units
Provides an overview of the core principles of chemistry that underlie
biological systems. Students explore research topics and methods Examination of recent advances in organic, biological, and inorganic
in chemical biology by participating in laboratory rotations, then and physical chemical research in industry. Taught in seminar format
present on experiments performed during each rotation. Intended with participation by scientists from industrial research laboratories.
for rst-year graduate students with a strong interest in chemical R. L. Danheiser
biology.
R. Raines 5.60 Thermodynamics and Kinetics
Prereq: Calculus II (GIR) and Chemistry (GIR)
5.53 Molecular Structure and Reactivity U (Fall, Spring)
Prereq: 5.13 and 5.60 5-0-7 units. REST
G (Fall)
3-0-9 units Equilibrium properties of macroscopic systems. Basic
Credit cannot also be received for 5.43 thermodynamics: state of a system, state variables. Work, heat, rst
law of thermodynamics, thermochemistry. Second and third law of
Reaction mechanisms in organic chemistry: methods of thermodynamics: entropy and free energy, including the molecular
investigation, relation of structure to reactivity, and reactive basis for these thermodynamic functions. Phase equilibrium and
intermediates. properties of solutions. Chemical equilibrium of reactions in gas and
A. Wendlandt solution phases. Rates of chemical reactions. Special attention to
thermodynamics related to global energy issues. Meets with 5.601
5.54[J] Frontiers in Chemical Biology rst half of term and 5.602 second half of term.  Credit cannot also
Same subject as 7.540[J], 20.554[J] be received for 5.601 or 5.602.
Prereq: 5.07[J], 5.13, 7.06, and permission of instructor R. Grin, A. Willard, T. Van Voorhis, B. Zhang
G (Fall)
3-0-9 units 5.601 Thermodynamics I
Prereq: Calculus II (GIR) and Chemistry (GIR)
Introduction to current research at the interface of chemistry, U (Fall, Spring; rst half of term)
biology, and bioengineering. Topics include imaging of biological 2-0-4 units
processes, metabolic pathway engineering, protein engineering,
mechanisms of DNA damage, RNA structure and function, Basic thermodynamics: state of a system, state variables.
macromolecular machines, protein misfolding and disease, Work, heat, rst law of thermodynamics, thermochemistry.
metabolomics, and methods for analyzing signaling network Second and third law of thermodynamics: entropy and free
dynamics. Lectures are interspersed with class discussions and energy, including the molecular basis for these thermodynamic
student presentations based on current literature. functions. Equilibrium properties of macroscopic systems. Special
L. Kiessling, M. Shoulders attention to thermodynamics related to global energy issues
and biological systems. Credit cannot also be received for 5.60.
5.56 Molecular Structure and Reactivity II Combination of 5.601 and 5.602 counts as a REST subject.
Prereq: 5.53 or permission of instructor R. Grin, A. Willard T. Van Voorhis, B. Zhang
Acad Year 2020-2021: Not oered
Acad Year 2021-2022: G (Spring; second half of term)
2-0-4 units

Application of physical principles and methods to contemporary

problems of interest in organic and polymer chemistry.
J. Johnson

14   |   Department of Chemistry
 DEPARTMENT OF CHEMISTRY

5.602 Thermodynamics II and Kinetics 5.62 Physical Chemistry

Prereq: 5.601 Prereq: 5.60 and 5.61
U (Fall, Spring; second half of term) U (Spring)
2-0-4 units 4-0-8 units

Free energy and chemical potential. Phase equilibrium and Elementary statistical mechanics; transport properties; kinetic
properties of solutions. Chemical equilibrium of reactions. Rates of theory; solid state; reaction rate theory; and chemical reaction
chemical reactions. Special attention to thermodynamics related to dynamics.
global energy issues and biological systems. Credit cannot also be S. Ceyer, A. Willard
received for 5.60. Combination of 5.601 and 5.602 counts as a REST
subject. 5.64[J] Frontiers of Interdisciplinary Science in Human Health
Consult R. Grin, A. Willard, T. Van Voorhis, B. Zhang and Disease
Same subject as HST.539[J]
5.61 Physical Chemistry Prereq: 5.13, 5.60, and (5.07[J] or 7.05)
Prereq: Calculus II (GIR), Chemistry (GIR), and Physics II (GIR) G (Spring)
U (Fall) 3-0-9 units
5-0-7 units. REST
Introduces major principles, concepts, and clinical applications of
Introductory quantum chemistry; particles and waves; wave biophysics, biophysical chemistry, and systems biology. Emphasizes
mechanics; atomic structure and the Periodic Table; valence and biological macromolecular interactions, biochemical reaction
molecular orbital theory; molecular structure; and photochemistry. dynamics, and genomics. Discusses current technological frontiers
  Meets with 5.611 rst half of term and 5.612 second half of term.  and areas of active research at the interface of basic and clinical
Credit cannot also be received for 5.611 or 5.612. science. Provides integrated, interdisciplinary training and core
M. Hong, G. Schlau-Cohen experimental and computational methods in molecular biochemistry
and genomics.
5.611 Introduction to Spectroscopy A. Shalek, X. Wang
Prereq: Calculus II (GIR), Chemistry (GIR), and Physics II (GIR)
U (Fall; rst half of term) 5.68[J] Kinetics of Chemical Reactions
2-0-4 units Same subject as 10.652[J]
Prereq: 5.62, 10.37, or 10.65
Introductory quantum chemistry; particles and waves; wave Acad Year 2020-2021: G (Fall)
mechanics; harmonic oscillator; applications to IR, Microwave and Acad Year 2021-2022: Not oered
NMR spectroscopy. Meets with 5.61 rst half of term.  Combination of 3-0-6 units
5.611 and 5.612 counts as a REST subject.
M. Hong, G. Schlau-Cohen Experimental and theoretical aspects of chemical reaction kinetics,
including transition-state theories, molecular beam scattering,
5.612 Electronic Structure of Molecules classical techniques, quantum and statistical mechanical estimation
Prereq: 5.611 of rate constants, pressure-dependence and chemical activation,
U (Fall; second half of term) modeling complex reacting mixtures, and uncertainty/ sensitivity
2-0-4 units analyses. Reactions in the gas phase, liquid phase, and on surfaces
are discussed with examples drawn from atmospheric, combustion,
Introductory electronic structure; atomic structure and the Periodic industrial, catalytic, and biological chemistry.
Table; valence and molecular orbital theory; molecular structure, and W. H. Green
photochemistry. Meets with 5.61 second half of term. Credit cannot
also be received for 5.61. Combination of 5.611 and 5.612 counts as a 5.697[J] Computational Chemistry
REST subject. Same subject as 10.437[J]
M. Hong, G. Schlau-Cohen Subject meets with 5.698[J], 10.637[J]
Prereq: Permission of instructor
U (Fall)
3-0-9 units

See description under subject 10.437[J]. Limited to 35; no listeners.

H. J. Kulik

Department of Chemistry   |   15
DEPARTMENT OF CHEMISTRY

5.698[J] Quantum Chemical Simulation 5.74 Introductory Quantum Mechanics II

Same subject as 10.637[J] Prereq: 5.73
Subject meets with 5.697[J], 10.437[J] G (Spring)
Prereq: Permission of instructor 3-0-9 units
G (Fall)
3-0-9 units Time-dependent quantum mechanics and spectroscopy. Topics
include perturbation theory, two-level systems, light-matter
See description under subject 10.637[J]. Limited to 35; no listeners. interactions, relaxation in quantum systems, correlation functions
H. J. Kulik and linear response theory, and nonlinear spectroscopy.
K. Nelson, G. Schlau-Cohen
5.70[J] Statistical Thermodynamics
Same subject as 10.546[J] 5.78 Biophysical Chemistry Techniques
Prereq: 5.60 or permission of instructor Subject meets with 7.71
G (Fall) Prereq: 5.07[J] or 7.05
3-0-9 units Acad Year 2020-2021: Not oered
Acad Year 2021-2022: G (Spring)
Develops classical equilibrium statistical mechanical concepts 2-0-4 units
for application to chemical physics problems. Basic concepts
of ensemble theory formulated on the basis of thermodynamic Presents principles of macromolecular crystallography that are
fluctuations. Examples of applications include Ising models, lattice essential for structure determinations. Topics include crystallization,
models of binding, ionic and non-ionic solutions, liquid theory, diraction theory, symmetry and space groups, data collection,
polymer and protein conformations, phase transition, and pattern phase determination methods, model building, and renement.
formation. Introduces computational techniques with examples of Discussion of crystallography theory complemented with exercises
liquid and polymer simulations. such as crystallization, data processing, and model building. Meets
J. Cao, B. Zhang with 7.71 when oered concurrently. Enrollment limited.
C. Drennan
5.72 Statistical Mechanics
Prereq: 5.70[J] or permission of instructor 5.80 Advanced Topics of Current Special Interest
Acad Year 2020-2021: Not oered Prereq: None
Acad Year 2021-2022: G (Spring; second half of term) G (Fall, Spring)
2-0-4 units Units arranged

Principles and methods of statistical mechanics. Classical and Advanced topics of current special interest.
quantum statistics, grand ensembles, fluctuations, molecular Sta
distribution functions, and other topics in equilibrium statistical
mechanics. Topics in thermodynamics and statistical mechanics of 5.83 Advanced NMR Spectroscopy
irreversible processes. Prereq: 5.73 or permission of instructor
J. Cao Acad Year 2020-2021: Not oered
Acad Year 2021-2022: G (Spring; rst half of term)
5.73 Introductory Quantum Mechanics I 2-0-4 units
Prereq: 5.61, 8.03, and 18.03
G (Fall) Oers a classical and quantum mechanical description of nuclear
3-0-9 units magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. The former includes key
concepts such as nuclear spin magnetic moment, Larmor precession,
Presents the fundamental concepts of quantum mechanics: Bloch equations, the rotating frame, radio-frequency pulses, vector
wave properties, uncertainty principles, Schrodinger equation, model of pulsed NMR, Fourier transformation in 1D and nD NMR,
and operator and matrix methods. Includes applications to one- orientation dependence of nuclear spin frequencies, and NMR
dimensional potentials (harmonic oscillator), three-dimensional relaxation. The latter covers nuclear spin Hamiltonians, density
centrosymetric potentials (hydrogen atom), and angular momentum operator and its time evolution, the interaction representation,
and spin. Approximation methods include WKB, variational principle, Average Hamiltonian Theory for multi-pulse experiments, and
and perturbation theory. analysis of some common pulse sequences in solution and solid-
M. Bawendi state NMR.
R. Grin

16   |   Department of Chemistry
 DEPARTMENT OF CHEMISTRY

5.891 Independent Study in Chemistry for Undergraduates 5.913 Seminar in Organic Chemistry
Prereq: None Prereq: Permission of instructor
U (Fall, IAP, Spring, Summer) Acad Year 2020-2021: Not oered
Units arranged Acad Year 2021-2022: G (Fall, Spring)
Can be repeated for credit. 2-0-1 units
Can be repeated for credit.
Program of independent study under direction of Chemistry faculty
member. May not substitute for required courses for the Chemistry Discusses current journal publications in organic chemistry.
major or minor. R. L. Danheiser
Sta
5.921 Seminar in Chemical Biology
5.892 Independent Study in Chemistry for Undergraduates Prereq: Permission of instructor
Prereq: None Acad Year 2020-2021: Not oered
U (Fall, IAP, Spring, Summer) Acad Year 2021-2022: G (Fall, Spring)
Units arranged [P/D/F] 2-0-1 units
Can be repeated for credit. Can be repeated for credit.

Program of independent study under direction of Chemistry faculty Discusses topics of current interest in chemical biology.
member. May not substitute for required courses for the Chemistry M. Shoulders, R. Raines
major or minor.
Sta 5.931 Seminar in Physical Chemistry
Prereq: 5.60
5.893 Practical Internship Experience in Chemistry Acad Year 2020-2021: Not oered
Prereq: None Acad Year 2021-2022: G (Fall, Spring)
U (Summer) 2-0-1 units
0-1-0 units Can be repeated for credit.
Can be repeated for credit.
Discusses topics of current interest in physical chemistry.
For Course 5 and 5-7 students participating in curriculum-related A. Willard
o-campus internship experiences in chemistry. Before enrolling,
students must consult the Chemistry Education Oce for details on 5.941 Seminar in Inorganic Chemistry
procedures and restrictions, and have approval from their faculty Prereq: 5.03
advisor. Subject to department approval. Upon completion, the Acad Year 2020-2021: Not oered
student must submit a write-up of the experience, approved by their Acad Year 2021-2022: G (Fall, Spring)
faculty advisor. 2-0-1 units
J. Weisman Can be repeated for credit.

5.90 Problems in Chemistry Discusses current research in inorganic chemistry.

Prereq: Permission of instructor M. Dinca
G (Fall, Spring, Summer)
Units arranged [P/D/F]
Can be repeated for credit.

Directed research and study of special chemical problems. For

Chemistry graduate students only.
R. W. Field

Department of Chemistry   |   17
DEPARTMENT OF CHEMISTRY

5.95[J] Teaching College-Level Science and Engineering 5.THU Undergraduate Thesis

Same subject as 1.95[J], 7.59[J], 8.395[J], 18.094[J] Prereq: Permission of instructor
Subject meets with 2.978 U (Fall, IAP, Spring, Summer)
Prereq: None Units arranged
Acad Year 2020-2021: Not oered Can be repeated for credit.
Acad Year 2021-2022: G (Fall)
2-0-2 units Program of original research under supervision of a chemistry faculty
member, culminating with the preparation of a thesis. Ordinarily
Participatory seminar focuses on the knowledge and skills necessary requires equivalent of two terms of research with chemistry
for teaching science and engineering in higher education. Topics department faculty member.
include theories of adult learning; course development; promoting Sta
active learning, problemsolving, and critical thinking in students;
communicating with a diverse student body; using educational 5.UR Undergraduate Research
technology to further learning; lecturing; creating eective tests and Prereq: None
assignments; and assessment and evaluation. Students research U (Fall, IAP, Spring, Summer)
and present a relevant topic of particular interest. Appropriate for Units arranged [P/D/F]
both novices and those with teaching experience. Can be repeated for credit.
J. Rankin
Program of research to be arranged by the student and a
5.S310 Special Subject: Laboratory Chemistry (Remote) (New) departmental faculty member. Research can be applied toward
Subject meets with 5.310 undergraduate thesis.
Prereq: None. Coreq: 5.12 C. C. Cummins
U (Spring)
2-8-2 units. Institute LAB 5.URG Undergraduate Research
Prereq: None
Introduces experimental chemistry concepts remotely for students U (Fall, IAP, Spring, Summer)
who are not majoring in Course 5. Principles and applications of Units arranged
chemical laboratory techniques presented. Techniques including Can be repeated for credit.
preparation and analysis of chemical materials, measurement
of pH, gas and liquid chromatography, visible-ultraviolet Program of research to be arranged by the student and a
spectrophotometry, infrared spectroscopy, kinetics, data analysis, departmental faculty member. May be taken for up to 12 units per
and elementary synthesis are described and demonstrated, in term, not to exceed a cumulative total of 48 units. A 10-page paper
addition to experimental design principles. Students gain lab summarizing research is required.
experience through watching lmed TA experiments and analyzing C. C. Cummins
real data sets. Includes instruction and practice in written and
oral communication to multiple audiences. <!--class="Mso"--
><!--class="Mso"-->Licensed for academic year 2020-2021 by the
Committee on Curricula. Enrollment limited.
Information: S. Hewett, A. Furst

5.THG Graduate Thesis

Prereq: Permission of instructor
G (Fall, IAP, Spring, Summer)
Units arranged
Can be repeated for credit.

Program of research leading to the writing of a PhD thesis; to be

arranged by the student and an appropriate MIT faculty member.
R. W. Field

18   |   Department of Chemistry