Chemistry and Social Justice

Catalog description

In this course, students will learn about and reflect on the systematic racism and sexism that exist in STEM, and specifically in the chemistry/biochemistry fields. Students will learn historically important scientific discoveries made by Black chemists and research (and celebrate!) contemporary scientists from traditionally underrepresented groups. Students will also learn about technological, industrial, and medical advances and reflect on how these advances can have adverse, and inequitable, effects. The course will explore how principles of green chemistry are being applied in current research programs to solve social justice related issues, like reducing our dependance on non-renewable natural resources.