John R Jefferson
Biography
Education: Ph.D., The Catholic University of America; B.A., Franklin and Marshall College
John R. Jefferson has been a professor in the chemistry department since 1991. Some of his course topics include Chemical Principles, Biochemistry, and Science of Science Fiction.
During January Term, Professor Jefferson leads a course in which students examine the scientific principles contained in a number of popular science fiction books and movies. The course acquaints students with many of the major principles of the natural sciences, while also examining the relationship between science and fiction.
Chem 151: Chemical Principles I
General course with laboratory intended primarily for students concentrating in the science area. Algebra skills are assumed.
Chem 152: Chemical Principles II
General course with laboratory intended primarily for students concentrating in the science area. Algebra skills are assumed.
Chem 301: Biochemistry I
An introduction to the chemistry of the four major classes of biological molecules: proteins, sugars, lipids, and nucleic acids. The relationship between the functional roles of these molecules and their structure and reactivity will be examined using the chemical principles mastered in the prerequisite courses of general chemistry and two semesters of organic chemistry. This course will fulfill the one-semester biochemistry prerequisite of typical health professional programs.
Sci 127: The Science of Science Fiction
An examination of the scientific principles contained in a number of popular science fiction books and movies. Designed to acquaint the student with many of the major principles of the natural sciences (physics, chemistry, and biology), while examining the relationship between science and fantasy. In addition, the ways in which popular science fiction affects how the public views science will be examined.
J-Term Courses
Chem 349: Biochemistry Laboratory
A laboratory introduction to the isolation and analysis of biological molecules. Techniques employed will include cell culture, protein purification, use of fluorescent tags, and immunochemical methods of analysis.
Prerequisites: Required, Chem 241 (Organic I) and one of the following, Chem 301 (Biochem Lecture), Bio 243 (Micro), Bio 248 (Genetics), Bio 363 (Molecular), or Bio 364 Cell Biology). Recommended Chem 202 (Analytical) and Chem 365 (Spectroscopy and Separations Lab).
- Ph.D., Catholic University, 1987
- B.A., Franklin and Marshall College, 1979