As early as freshman year, chemistry majors are encouraged to become involved in research projects and work under close supervision with faculty in the department. Stipends are available to fund students to work on a broad range of research projects during the summer and school year. The results of these projects are often presented by students at the American Chemical Society national meetings and other major conferences. Also, students are often co-authors of research publications in major international science journals.
Examples of some of the projects that faculty and students are currently pursuing include:
- Studies of short-lived, metal-containing radicals using laser spectroscopy.
- Development of new catalysts to convert carbon dioxide to methane
- Synthesis of novel organic compounds that could lead to new anti-parasitic drugs
- Synthesis of compounds to investigate the mechanisms of neurotransmitters
- Measurement of pollutants in ground water
- Development of new photo catalysts
- Investigations of the structure of RNA and development of RNA probes.
Canisius College Student Chemistry/Biochemistry Club
The Canisius College student-affiliate chapter of the American Chemical Society (ACS) is a very active club that has received national recognition and numerous awards from the ACS. Membership is open to all chemistry and biochemistry majors. This club conducts many activities, which include demonstrations at local schools and other venues during National Chemistry Week; community service activities like the Beach Sweep and after-school programs for city school children; and the Chemistry Olympiad competition. The ACS student affiliate chapter also invites chemistry speakers to campus and organizes several social activities, including excursions to Bills games, movie nights, banquets and museum visits.