This course will use real-world case studies drawn from legal, medical and environmental reports to illustrate use of chemical concepts prevalent in medical and biological settings. Students will refine their critical thinking and scientific communication skills and learn techniques for evaluating data and making logical arguments grounded in scientific theory. Important topics from general chemistry will be reviewed in context of organic and biological chemistry settings, including equilibrium, acid/base and molecular structure. New topics will be introduced to help students prepare for advanced courses in organic and biological chemistry.

Discussion and evaluation of the role professional researchers play in dealing with the reporting of research, responsible authorship, human and animal studies, misconduct and fraud in science, intellectual property, and professional conduct in scientific relationships. Participants are expected to read the materials and cases prior to each meeting. Successful completion is based on regular attendance and active participation in discussion. This half-term course is designed to satisfy federal funding agencies' requirements for training in the ethical practice of scientists. Required for graduate students and post-docs.

This course is designed for a student to pursue an internship, practicum or other form of employment directly related to the student.