“I always wanted to go into science, do some kind of research, and win a Noble Prize.”

1. Dynamic-Covalent Macromolecular MaterialsBrent S. Sumerlin, Southern Methodist University, DMR 0846792 Block copolymers linked by dynamic-covalent bonds can exchange their components in response to changes in their environment. We have prepared a variety of dynamic-covalent polymer materials and are investigating their potential to serve as self-healing coatings and “smart” scaffolds. Block copolymers can self-assemble in water to form nano-sized aggregates. As opposed to traditional surfactants, many “smart” block copolymers can undergo self-assembly or dissociation in response to a specific external stimulus. We have prepared new block copolymers that respond to changes in the surrounding glucose concentration, potentially allowing new therapeutic strategies for the treatment of diabetes.

2. Dynamic-Covalent Macromolecular MaterialsBrent S. Sumerlin, Southern Methodist University, DMR 0846792 “I always wanted to go into science, do some kind of research, and win a Noble Prize.” Florance Fishman Brookhaven Community College student Our group includes researchers with a variety of backgrounds and experience. In addition to SMU undergraduate and graduate students, postdoctoral research associates, and area high school students, community college students were specifically sought. By offering research opportunities for community college students, we include a more diverse pool of candidates, while simultaneously helping highlight career opportunities available in polymer and materials chemistry. In collaboration with the SMU Chemistry Graduate Council, we helped organize the first annual SMU Chemistry Camp to expose area high school students to fundamental laboratory principles, including several experiments on polymeric materials. Florance Fishman Brookhaven Community College student Florance FishmanVisiting Researcher from Brookhaven Community College SMU Chemistry Camp SMU Chemistry Camp