Nicole James
Post-Doctoral Scholar — Northern Illinois University
Ph.D. Chemistry, The University of Chicago
M.S. Chemistry, The University of Chicago
B.A. Chemistry & German Studies, Whitman College
About Me
I was a first generation college student from a low-income, rural family. A high-quality education transformed my life. I am dedicated to making this path more available to students from all backgrounds.
My graduate work focused on interfacial surface chemistry in suspensions. This broad, interdisciplinary field showed me how difficult it is for students (and experts) to employ their classroom chemistry skills in new contexts. Being able to apply knowledge flexibly is integral for academic success, research progress, and general scientific literacy. This motivated me to turn my focus to helping students from all backgrounds develop these skills.
I have always been happiest in the classroom. I am pursuing teaching-centered positions, and hopeful for the opportunity to contribute to institutional assessment and research when possible.
Teaching
I have extensive experience in the introductory, GOB, and General Chemistry sequences, and am interested in further developing my skill teaching Organic Chemistry.
I am comfortable teaching higher-level or special topics courses in physical or analytical chemistry.
I am particularly interested in teaching special topics or general education classes, on topics such as food chemistry, nanomaterials, and every-day materials such as concrete (it's actually VERY interesting!).
What students say:
"I have really enjoyed your class so far! I came in with the mindset that I am bad at chemistry and that chemistry is hard to learn. But your class and your method of teaching have completely changed that"
-Remote, introductory chemistry student (Fall 2020)
Research Interests
Current Work: Chemical Education Research
Supporting all students & reducing equity gaps
Interdisciplinary preparedness, student perception of the connections between chemistry and other disciplines
The interdependence of evidence-based curricula and pedagogical implementation
PhD research: Soft Matter Chemistry
Concentrated colloidal suspensions
Interfacial surface chemistry in non-Newtonian fluids
Rheological characteristics of complex, out-of-equilibrium materials