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New Mexico State University
Graduate Catalog
2012-2013

CHEMISTRY and BIOCHEMISTRY

Department website: http://www.chemistry.nmsu.edu/

(575) 646-2505

wquintan@nmsu.edu

W. Quitana, Ph.D. interim department head, Ph.D. (Pennsylvania) – inorganic chemistry, boron chemistry, chemical education; J.B. Arterburn, Ph.D. (Arizona) – organic chemistry, enantioselective and metallo-organic synthesis; G. A. Eiceman, Ph.D. (Colorado-Boulder) – analytical chemistry: gas and liquid chromatography, mass spectrometry; A. Gopalan, Ph.D. (Ohio State University) – organic chemistry: synthetic methods, applications of enzymes in asymmetric synthesis; J. W. Herndon, Ph.D. (Princeton) – organic chemistry; organo-transition metal complexes, synthesis of biologically important cyclic compounds; K. Houston, Ph.D. (University of Texas- MD Anderson) – biochemistry, molecular mechanisms of hormone action in tumorigenesis; M. D. Johnson, Ph.D. (New Mexico State University) – inorganic chemistry; kinetics, reaction mechanisms of transition metal complexes; G. D. Kuehn, Ph.D. (Washington State University) – biochemistry: role of polyamine metabolism in oxidative stress and apoptosis, siRNA knock-down strategies; A. S. Lara, Ph.D. (New Mexico State University) – analytical chemistry: exploitation of clays for remediation of environmental pollutants; S. L. Lusetti, Ph.D. (Wisconsin) – biochemistry: cell metabolism, disease etiology; B. A. Lyons, Ph.D. (Cornell University) – biochemistry: nmr spectroscopic studies of signal transduction pathways in breast cancer; W. A. Maio, Ph.D. (Johns Hopkins University) – organic chemistry; synthesis of lactones and lactams, artemisinin- based antimalarial dimers, and total synthesis of (+)-iriomoteolide 1a; W. Quintana, Ph.D. (Pennsylvania) – inorganic chemistry, boron chemistry, chemical education; G. D. Rayson, Ph.D. (Texas-Austin) – analytical chemistry: spectroscopy; A. Rowland, Ph.D. (University of Utah) – toxicology, in vitro mechanisms of toxicology related to Cyp2S1 gene expression in epithelial disease; S. N. Smirnov, Ph.D. (Novosibirsk) – physical chemistry: photo-induced charge separation; D. E. Smith, Ph.D. (California-Berkeley) – physical chemistry: molecular dynamics in condensed phase; J. M. Smith, Ph.D. (University of Witwatersrand) – inorganic chemistry: synthetic models of metalloenzyme active sites, small molecule activation; H. Wang, Ph.D. (Wayne State) – physical chemistry: reaction kinetics in complex systems; C. G. Zoski, Ph.D. (Trent University, Canada) – analytical chemistry: theoretical and experimental electrochemistry

DEGREE: Master of Science
MAJOR: Chemistry

DEGREE: Doctor of Philosophy
MAJOR: Chemistry

MINOR: Biochemistry
MINOR: Chemistry

The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry offers programs leading to the M.S. and Ph.D. degrees in the areas of physical, organic, inorganic, biological, and analytical chemistry. Admission to these programs without deficiency is based on an undergraduate program essentially equivalent to that pursued by a chemistry or biochemistry major at this university. An entering student is encouraged to take the Graduate Record Examination (aptitude) to increase his or her chances for financial support. All foreign students must take GRE and TOEFL and must demonstrate adequate English speaking and writing skills.

Students who wish may take a minor in chemical toxicology or molecular biology. The core course work required of students entering with no previous graduate study in chemistry or biochemistry consists of basic core courses completed in one of the following options: (i) two courses chosen respectively from two of the five major areas represented in the department apart from a student's elected field of thesis research; or (ii) one course chosen from the five major areas apart from the student's elected field of thesis research plus one graduate-level course in a discipline outside the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry. A master's candidate will plan an appropriate program of further study with his or her advisor and is also required to prepare a thesis. The thesis requirement may be waived upon application to the department head, after completion of the doctoral comprehensive examination requirements. A chemistry student who successfully completes the Ph.D. qualifying examination will begin writing the cumulative examinations, which constitute the written portion of the comprehensive examination. A biochemistry student who successfully completes the Ph.D. qualifying examination will begin preparation of a research proposal which will be orally defended for completion of the comprehensive examination. After completion of the qualifying exam, a doctoral committee is formed to assist the student in planning a program appropriate to his or her background and goals. Since research is central in both the master's and doctoral programs, the early selection of a research advisor is encouraged. The student is expected to participate in the colloquia and seminar programs. Financial support is available to graduate students in chemistry and biochemistry through numerous teaching and research assistantships as well as federally supported traineeships and fellowships. Inquiries regarding these opportunities should be directed to the head of the department.

CHEMISTRY

CHEM 451. Special Topics 1-3 cr.
Specific subjects to be announced in the Schedule of Classes. Prerequisite: consent of instructor. May be repeated for a maximum of 12 credits.
CHEM 452. Integrated Advanced Laboratory 3 cr.
Applications of the principles of organic, inorganic, physical, and analytical chemistry to solve particularly defined but open-ended problems in chemistry. Prerequisites: CHEM 315, CHEM 356, CHEM 371, CHEM 433.
CHEM 455. Independent Studies 1-3 cr.
Independent studies directed by consulting faculty. Prerequisite: consent of instructor.
CHEM 456. Inorganic Structure and Bonding 3 cr.
Theoretical principles and a systematic study of the periodic table. Prerequisite: CHEM 356 or CHEM 431 or CHEM 433.
CHEM 466. Advanced Organic Chemistry 3 cr.
Recent developments in synthesis and theoretical principles of organic chemistry. Prerequisite: CHEM 314.
CHEM 466 H. Advanced Organic Chemistry Honors 3 cr.
Same as CHEM 466. Additional work to be arranged.
CHEM 471. Instrumental Methods of Analysis 4 cr. (3+3P)
Analytical techniques, including optical and procedures. Prerequisites: CHEM 371 and either PHYS 212G or PHYS 216G.
CHEM 472. Analytical Methods for Toxic Organics and Metal Ions in the Environment 3 cr. (2+3P)
Laboratory course with lectures on principles of analytical techniques related to environmental monitoring of pollutants and waste management. Prerequisite: CHEM 371 or C E 462 or consent of instructor.
CHEM 500. Seminar in Inorganic Chemistry 1 cr.
Current topics. May be repeated.
CHEM 506. Atomic and Molecular Structure in Inorganic Chemistry 3 cr.
Theories of ionic and molecular bonding.
CHEM 507. Chemistry of the Elements 3 cr.
Discussion of the reactions and structures of inorganic compounds.
CHEM 508. Main Group Chemistry 3 cr.
Chemistry, structure and bonding of main group elements are covered along with some spectroscopy.
CHEM 509. Transition Metal Chemistry 3 cr.
The chemistry, bonding theory, spectroscopy and industrial applications of the transition metals will be covered.
CHEM 510. Seminar in Organic Chemistry 1 cr.
Current topics. May be repeated.
CHEM 514. Organic Structure Determination 3 cr.
Modern spectroscopic techniques for characterization of organic compounds.
CHEM 515. Modern Organic Chemistry 3 cr.
Recent developments in synthesis and theoretical principles of organic chemistry.
CHEM 516. Physical Organic Chemistry 3 cr.
Physical organic chemistry.
CHEM 517. Synthetic Organic Chemistry 3 cr.
Synthetic methods in organic chemistry.
CHEM 518. Chemistry for Educators 3 cr.
This is a course for Graduate Masters of Arts in teaching.
CHEM 520. Seminar in Analytical Chemistry 1 cr.
Current topics. May be repeated.
CHEM 521. Chemical Instrumentation 3 cr. (2+3P)
Theory and application of electronic devices to chemical analysis.
CHEM 526. Advanced Analytical Chemistry 3 cr.
Equilibria, and the theories of gravimetric, volumetric, and instrumental analysis.
CHEM 527. Separations 3 cr.
Covers the fundamentals of separation methods and relationships to modern analytical techniques such as gas chromatography and liquid chromatography.
CHEM 528. Electroanalytical Techniques 3 cr.
Theory and application of modern electrochemical methods of analysis including voltammetry, amperometry, modern cyclic and pulse methods, and stripping analysis.
CHEM 529. Spectrochemical Analysis 3 cr.
Fundamentals, instrumentation, and applications of spectrochemical analysis.
CHEM 530. Seminar in Physical Chemistry 1 cr.
Current topics. May be repeated.
CHEM 536. Chemical Thermodynamics 3 cr.
First, second, and third laws of thermodynamics, and the concepts, interrelations, and applications of thermodynamic state functions.
CHEM 537. Quantum Chemistry 3 cr.
Fundamentals of quantum mechanics. Prerequisite: consent of instructor.
CHEM 538. Chemical Kinetics 3 cr.
Empirical analysis of rate measurements, collision theory, transition state theory, and chain reactions.
CHEM 539. Spectroscopy 3 cr.
Molecular spectroscopy for physical chemistry. Quantum mechanics applied to spectroscopy of polyatomic molecules: UV-VIs, IR, magnetic resonance. CHEM 537 desired but not required. Prerequisite: consent of instructor. Prerequisite: consent of instructor.
CHEM 540. Seminar in Environmental Chemistry 1 cr.
Current topics in environmental chemistry. May be repeated for a maximum of 3 credits.
CHEM 550. Discussions in Inorganic Chemistry 1 cr.
Current research problems in inorganic chemistry. May be repeated. Graded S/U.
CHEM 560. Discussions in Organic Chemistry 1 cr.
Current research problems in organic chemistry. May be repeated. Graded S/U.
CHEM 570. Discussions in Analytical Chemistry 1 cr.
Current research problems in analytical chemistry. May be repeated. Graded S/U.
CHEM 580. Discussions in Physical Chemistry 1 cr.
Current research problems in physical chemistry. May be repeated. Graded S/U.
CHEM 590. Discussions in Environmental Chemistry 1 cr.
Current research problems in environmental chemistry. May be repeated for a maximum of 3 credits. Restricted to majors. Graded S/U.
CHEM 598. Special Research Programs 1-3 cr.
Individual investigations, either analytical or experimental. Graded S/U.
CHEM 599. Master's Thesis 0-88 cr.
Thesis preparation.
CHEM 600. Research 1-88 cr.
Course used for assigning credit for research performed prior to successful completion of the doctoral qualifying examination.
CHEM 609. Topics in Inorganic Chemistry 1-3 cr.
Selected topics of current interest designated by subtitle.
CHEM 619. Topics in Organic Chemistry 1-3 cr.
Selected topics of current interest designated by subtitle.
CHEM 629. Advanced Topics in Analytical Chemistry 3 cr.
Discussion of advanced topics in the field of analytical chemistry. May be repeated with different subtitles. Consent of instructor required.
CHEM 639. Topics in Physical Chemistry 1-3 cr.
Selected topics of current interest designated by subtitle.
CHEM 650. Advanced Seminar 1 cr.
Intended for students who have earned a master s degree or the equivalent. A discussion of current topics of interest in chemistry. May be repeated.
CHEM 700. Doctoral Dissertation 0-88 cr.
Dissertation preparation.

BIOCHEMISTRY

BCHE 451. Special Topics 1-3 cr.
Same as CHEM 451. Prerequisite: consent of instructor. May be repeated for a maximum of 12 credits.
BCHE 455. Independent Studies 1-3 cr.
Independent studies directed by consulting faculty. Prerequisite: consent of instructor.
BCHE 494. Techniques in Genetic Engineering 4 cr. (2+6P)
Basic laboratory techniques required for research involving recombinant DNA technology: structured experimental procedures, including nucleic acid isolation and purification, as well as the identification and manipulation of genes and genetic material of both bacterial and plant origin. Prerequisites: BCHE 395, 396, and consent of instructor.
BCHE 540. Seminar in Biochemistry 1 cr.
Formal seminar presentation in current topics in biochemical research. May be repeated for a maximum of 3 credits.
BCHE 542. Biochemistry I 3 cr.
Relationship between macromolecular structure and function. Basic enzymology. Energy metabolism. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 314 and CHEM 431 or CHEM 433; or BCHE 395 or equivalent.
BCHE 545. Molecular and Biochemical Genetics 3 cr.
An accelerated treatment of the molecular basis of gene expression. Discussion of chemical, enzymological, and genetic techniques of molecular biology. Prerequisite: BCHE 542 or equivalent. Same as BIOL 545.
BCHE 546. Biochemistry II 3 cr.
Intermediary metabolism: catabolic and anabolic pathways of carbohydrates, lipids, amino acids, and nucleic acids, including their regulation. Prerequisite: BCHE 542 or BCHE 395 with consent of instructor.
BCHE 590. Discussions in Biochemistry 1 cr.
Current research problems in biochemistry. May be repeated for a maximum of 6 credits. Graded S/U.
BCHE 598. Special Research Programs 1-3 cr.
May be repeated for a maximum of 6 credits. Same as CHEM 598. Graded S/U.
BCHE 599. Master's Thesis 0-88 cr.
May be repeated for a maximum of 6 credits. Same as CHEM 599.
BCHE 600. Research 1-88 cr.
May be repeated for a maximum of 20 credits. PR/U grading. Same as CHEM 600.
BCHE 645. Nucleic Acid Metabolism 3 cr.
Study of the enzymology of proteins that act on nucleic acids as well as the effect of DNA and RNA structure on metabolic processes. Taught with BCHE 451. Prerequisite(s): 'C' or better in BCHE 395 or BCHE 542.
BCHE 647. Physical Biochemistry 3 cr.
Fundamental applications of physical chemistry to the investigation of biological metabolites and biological macromolecules, including proteins, oligo-nucleotides, and molecular arrays with an emphasis on understanding biological functions based on chemical structures. Taught with BCHE 451. Prerequisite(s): 'C' or better in CHEM 431 or CHEM 433 or BCHE 542.
BCHE 648. Proteins and Enzymes 3 cr.
Theories and mechanisms of enzyme catalysis, chemical modification of proteins, general acid-base catalysis and nucleophilic catalysis as they pertain to enzymes, advanced enzyme kinetics, and formulation of enzymatic rate equations. Prerequisite: BCHE 546.
BCHE 649. Topics in Biochemistry 1-3 cr.
Selected topics of current interest designated by title and credit. May be repeated for a maximum of 3 credits.
BCHE 650. Advanced Seminar 1 cr.
Discussion of biochemical research in progress that relates to a doctoral candidate's thesis research. Intended for students who have earned a master's degree or the equivalent and has made significant research progress for preparation of the doctoral dissertation. May be repeated for a maximum of 3 credits.
BCHE 700. Doctoral Dissertation 0-20 cr.
May be repeated for a maximum of 20 credits. Graded PR/U. Same as CHEM 700.

TOXICOLOGY

Industry, as well as federal, state, and municipal government agencies, has a growing need for scientists and engineers with an understanding of toxicological problems. The Toxicology Program has been designed to provide instruction in general, environmental, and occupational toxicology for students majoring in areas of science, agriculture, or engineering. Master's or doctoral students may minor in toxicology by completing the introductory course and at least two of the advanced courses.

TOX 453. Regulatory Toxicology 2 cr.
Laws and regulations governing production, use and disposal of toxic or hazardous materials. Prerequisite: consent of instructor. Same as E S 453.
TOX 461. Toxicology I 3 cr.
Introduction to principles of toxicology. Prerequisite(s): BIOL 111G or BIOL 211G, and CHEM 345. Restricted to: Main campus only. Crosslisted with: ANSC 461
TOX 523. Environmental Toxicology 3 cr.
Introduction to the science of environmental toxicology. This course examines common pollutants and their impact on human and environmental health. It also evaluates the role of environmental protection agencies in monitoring and regulating these substances. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 211 or CHEM 313-314. Restricted to: Main campus only.
TOX 550. Special Topics 1-3 cr.
Readings, discussions, and/or field and laboratory investigation of selected problems. Typical examples: pharmacology, reproductive toxicology, environmental toxicology, or mutagenesis. Prerequisite: consent of instructor, and designation of a specific topic before registration.
TOX 598. Special Research Programs 1-3 cr.
Individual investigations, either analytical or experimental. Graded S/U..