Senior Received Drinko Grant for Interdisciplinary Research

Natasha Kassim, a Westminster College senior biochemistry and political science major, received an Undergraduate Research Grant from Westminster's Drinko Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning.

Kassim is a daughter of Laurie Kassim of Canfield, Ohio, and a graduate of Canfield High School.

Kassim's research is in two parts, covering her Honors Program project in both of her majors.

"Characterization of Nanoparticles via Conventional Microwave-Assisted vs. Simultaneous Heating and Cooling (SiHCo) Methods" compares two different microwave syntheses of zinc oxide nanoparticles and analyzes the results with scanning electron microscope and energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy. This portion of the research will be presented at the Pittsburgh Conference on Analytical Chemistry and Applied Spectroscopy in Orlando in March.

The chemistry component of the research was conducted under the supervision of Dr. Helen Boylan, Westminster associate professor of chemistry.

Part two of the project, "TBD: Characterization of ZnO Nanoparticles Synthesized via Two Microwave Methods and an Analysis of International Nanotechnology Regulatory Efforts," explores current international nanotechnology regulation efforts and institutions and offers recommendations for regulation moving forward.

"The paper includes an introduction to common international environmental principles and strategies, and takes a close look at the U.S. and the European Union's nanotechnology policies to assess the potential divergence or convergence of nanotechnology regulation by the world's leading industrialized nations," Kassim explained. "The paper also addresses the growing division between developed and developing nations and looks at the unique challenges posed to the international community as more developing nations begin to research and use nanotechnology."

This portion of the research was conducted under the supervision of Dr. Edward Cohen, associate professor and chair of Westminster's Department of Political Science and Sociology.

"Natasha's project combines original scientific research with an analysis of the political implications of scientific innovation at the national and international levels," Cohen said. "Her work is on the cutting edge of political science research into the potential impact of nanotechnology on the relationship between government regulation and scientific progress."

Westminster's All-College Honors Program provides opportunities for academically outstanding students to pursue projects beyond the regular course work. Selection for the program is competitive.

The Drinko Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning was created to enrich undergraduate education at Westminster through advancing world-class teaching as well as by participating in collaborations that address community and regional needs including strengthening K-12 education. The Undergraduate Research Initiative provides funding for students to conduct research and to present their research at regional and national conferences.

Contact Cohen at (724) 946-7304 or e-mail cohenes@westminster.edu for more information. Visit www.westminster.edu/drinko and www.westminster.edu/honors for additional information about the Drinko Center and the Honors Program.

Natasha Kassim