The Ohio State University

Ian Jones
Class of 2007
Majors: Chemistry, Microbiology

Ian Jones works in an organic chemistry lab studying branched polymers, called dendrimers, which adopt helical conformations. He is trying to design and synthesize a dendrimer that folds and unfolds as the pH of its environment changes.

"I enjoy the challenge of working on my own project, the practical skill that I learn from working in the lab and the scholarships that OSU provides for good projects," he says.

Jones became involved in research after taking the honors organic chemistry laboratory sequence of classes, during which many of the chemistry department's faculty members presented their research. "Afterward I was able to choose the one that seemed most interesting," he notes.

Jones says that his experience with research as an undergraduate allowed him to make sure he wanted to work in a lab in graduate school, but concedes that at first it was difficult to balance research with his course load. He recommends that students wait until after their sophomore year to start research. "It's a big time commitment and the first two years should be left for class work and other types of college activity," he explains.

He says students interested in doing chemistry research should take the honors organic chemistry lab sequence, noting that, "It will prepare you like no other class can," Jones said.
 

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