World of Chemistry Science and technology greatly contribute to our happy and long lives. The goal of this course is to learn how chemistry impacts our daily lives in common and extraordinary ways. After learning basic concepts of elements, atoms, and molecules, we will explore topics in energy (nuclear, solar, batteries, fuel cells, fossil fuels, and metabolism), environmental issues (acid rain, global warming, and ozone depletion), health (food and drug), synthetic material, and art (color, forgery detection, and art restoration).

Foundations of Chemistry CHEM 0102 is the foundational course required for all students beginning chemistry. In this course, we will introduce the essential vocabulary and symbolism used to describe matter, the chemical theories that relate microscopic structure and composition to macroscale physical properties, and the mathematical use of measurements and chemical equations to relate products and reactants (i.e., stoichiometry) in pure substances and solutions. We will use short lectures and small group work to solve problems collaboratively. During discussions, we will show demonstrations and apply theory to analyze observations. Students should visit go/chemplacement to determine if they are eligible to enroll directly into CHEM 0105.

General Chemistry I Major topics will include atomic theory and atomic structure; chemical bonding; stoichiometry; introduction to chemical thermodynamics. States of matter; solutions and nuclear chemistry. Laboratory work deals with testing of theories by various quantitative methods. Students with strong secondary school preparation are encouraged to consult the department chair for permission to elect CHEM 0104 or CHEM 0107 in place of this course. CHEM 0103 is also an appropriate course for a student with little or no prior preparation in chemistry who would like to learn about basic chemical principles while fulfilling the SCI or DED distribution requirement. Students with AP Chemistry scores of 4 or 5 OR Chemistry Placement scores of 21 or higher are NOT allowed to enroll in CHEM 103. Students MUST have taken the Chemistry placement exam and earned a score of 20 or less.

General Chemistry II In this course, we will cover introductory chemistry topics including chemical kinetics, chemical equilibrium, acid-base equilibria, chemical thermodynamics, and electrochemistry. Lab work includes inorganic synthesis, qualitative analysis, and quantitative analysis in kinetics, acid-base and redox chemistry. Students may only enroll in this course if they have previously taken and passed CHEM 0103. This course will be offered for the last time in Spring 2026.

General Chemistry In this course we will introduce students to the fundamental theories and concepts in chemistry. We will consider matter at the electronic level and build up to various bonding theories, apply thermodynamics to explore physical and chemical processes, and study fundamental concepts of equilibrium and kinetics. Class time will include short lectures and group-based problem-solving sessions. Lab work includes qualitative and quantitative analysis, kinetics, and acid-base chemistry.

Advanced General Chemistry This course is a one-semester alternative to one year of general chemistry (CHEM 0103 and CHEM 0104). It is open to all students who have received a 4 or 5 on the Advanced Placement test in Chemistry. Students who have two or more years of high school chemistry without AP credit may enroll with permission of the instructor. Topics will be drawn from the traditional general chemistry curriculum, but discussed in greater detail with a more thorough mathematical treatment. Special emphasis will be placed on chemical bonding, coordination chemistry, and real world research in chemistry.

Exercise Biochemistry and the Limits of Human Endurance In this course we will investigate the biochemical, biological, genetic, and psychological factors associated with athletic performance.  We will discuss the origins of exercise physiology in the early 1900’s, introducing topics such as metabolic fuels and their utilization, oxygen and water, and physiological adaptations to training.  Special attention will be paid to muscle (power), pulmonary organization and function (VO2 max),  and how psychology and the brain (the master regulator) contribute to achieve maximum performance.  We will also read and discuss recent papers from popular and primary literature.   Films and guest lectures by experts and accomplished endurance athletes will provide a personal perspective.  Laboratory and training room sessions will put themes into practice. We will also consider controversies such as performance enhancing drugs and sex determination.

Organic Chemistry I: Structure and Reactivity The course will provide students with an introduction to the structure and reactivity of organic molecules sufficient to continue directly to the study of biochemistry (CHEM 0322). Topics covered will include models of chemical bonding, acid-base relationships, three-dimensional molecular structure (conformations and stereochemistry), reaction mechanisms and energy diagrams, substitution and elimination reactions, carbonyl reactions (additions, reductions, interconversions, and alpha-reactivity), and the fundamentals of biological molecules (carbohydrates, DNA, and RNA). Laboratory experiments will relate to purification techniques (recrystallization, distillation, extraction, and chromatography), as well as microscale organic reactions that complement the lecture material.

Organic Chemistry II: Synthesis and Spectroscopy In this course we will explore how organic molecules are made and their structures are identified. The study of organic reactions will continue from CHEM 0203 with radical reactions, alkene and alkyne additions, aromatic reactions, oxidations and reductions, and additional carbonyl reactions. Emphasis in this course will be placed on using reactions in sequences to synthesize larger and more complex molecules. The theory and practice of mass spectrometry and UV-Vis, IR, and NMR spectroscopy will be studied as a means to elucidate the exact structures of organic molecules. Laboratory experiments will focus on synthetic techniques that complement the lecture material and the identification of complex unknowns via  GC-MS, IR, and NMR.

Organic Chemistry I: Structure and Reactivity In this course we will provide students with an introduction to the structure and reactivity of organic molecules sufficient to continue directly to the study of biochemistry (CHEM 0322). Topics covered will include models of chemical bonding, acid-base relationships, three-dimensional molecular structure (conformations and stereochemistry), reaction mechanisms and energy diagrams, substitution and elimination reactions, carbonyl reactions (additions, reductions, interconversions, and alpha-reactivity), and the fundamentals of biological molecules (carbohydrates, DNA, and RNA). Laboratory experiments will relate to purification techniques (recrystallization, distillation, extraction, and chromatography), as well as microscale organic reactions that complement the lecture material.

Foundations of Analytical Chemistry In this course we will introduce fundamental concepts of analytical chemistry. Topics will include the tools and vocabulary of analytical chemistry, data evaluation, method standardization, sources of error, sample collection and preparation, chemical equilibrium, and titrations. The laboratory component of this course will give students hands-on experience with the tools and techniques in analytical chemistry, including using analytical glassware, calibration and experimental design, data handling and visualization, lab report generation, and keeping a scientific notebook. Lab projects will incorporate UV/Vis, titration, separation, and electrochemical methods for chemical, biomedical, and/or environmental applications. (CHEM 0104 or CHEM 0105 or CHEM 0107) 3 hr. lect., 3 hr. lab.

Bioinorganic Chemistry Bioinorganic chemistry focuses on the role of metals and metal ions in many biological contexts. Whether it is calcium in cell signaling and muscle contraction or iron for the transport and storage of O2 molecules in the blood, metals are engraved in bioorganic systems in different states and concentrations. In this course, we will first familiarize ourselves with the basics of inorganic chemistry needed for understanding bioinorganic chemistry. We will learn the nature of chemical bonding in bioinorganic systems with the theories and examples associated with them. We will then move toward the biochemistry of molecules - the building blocks of proteins: amino acids, followed by processes of RNA, DNA, and protein synthesis. We will conclude the course with a broad discussion on the role of metals in biological systems and their applications with possibly a few specific examples in detail.

Foundations of Inorganic Chemistry This course will expand on general chemistry topics (atomic structure, periodic trends, and bonding theory) to survey inorganic chemistry. This course introduces students to new topics such as solid-state materials chemistry and coordination chemistry and applies these topics in areas such as acid-base and redox chemistry. The relevance of this content to energy technologies, medicine, environmental chemistry, and industrial processes will be discussed. Students will develop an understanding of chemical reactivity across the periodic table, while learning science communication skills through project-based learning. The laboratory component of the course introduces students to the synthesis of inorganic molecules and materials and physical characterization methods 3 hr. lect., 3 hr. Lab. (CHEM 0104 or 0105 or 0107).

Chemistry of Energy Conversion With global energy use on the rise, it is essential to understand the different energy systems that are currently in place and how they can, or in many cases, cannot meet the world’s future energy demands in a sustainable manner. In this course we will begin with a brief overview on the energy sources themselves: potential energy (hydro), kinetic energy (wind, tidal), thermal energy (geothermal, ocean thermal), radiant energy (solar), chemical energy (oil, coal, gas, biomass), and nuclear energy (uranium, thorium). Once we understand the energy sources, we will apply the tools of inorganic chemistry (simple bonding, symmetry, transition metal chemistry, ligand field theory, and thermodynamics) to explore the larger topic of energy conversion. We will examine how chemistry provides an incredible opportunity when it comes to understanding energy conversion by approaching the problem from the atomic level all the way up to the empirical macroscopic world. Although the path to sustainable energy will be examined primarily through the lens of chemistry, our learning will be placed in the context of political, social economic and environmental goals, which strongly influence future energy production.

Environmental Chemistry & Health IIn this course we will investigate the relationship between molecular structure and the behavior of chemical pollutants in natural and built environments, the science underlying health effects of toxic exposures, and environmental justice concerns associated with pollutant exposures. Through readings and active problem solving, we will examine the chemistry governing global transport and partitioning of chemicals among soils/sediments, waters, the atmosphere, and biota (including humans), as well as contaminant remediation strategies. We will study foundational principles of environmental toxicology and take a case study approach to identifying patterns of environmental injustice. In the laboratory, we will apply methods for monitoring pollution, understanding pollutant behavior, and assessing toxicity.

Medicinal Chemistry Medicinal chemistry combines organic chemistry with biochemistry, analytical chemistry, physical chemistry, molecular biology, pharmacology, and medicine. As chemists we try to correlate the molecular structure of pharmaceutical treatments (i.e., "drugs") with their biological activity to understand disease and to develop both new and improved treatments. In this course we will survey the major categories of diseases, drug targets, and drugs using a case-study approach. In addition to mid-term exams and a shorter group presentation on a disease category, the course will culminate with group-based final projects (presentation and written paper) about the design, development, and proposed future directions of treatments targeting a specific disease.

Chemical Biology In this course we will explore scientific advances propelled by research at the interface of organic chemistry and molecular biology. The field of chemical biology involves the manipulation of biological macromolecules (proteins, nucleic acids, lipids, and carbohydrates) using synthetic organic chemistry. These organic transformations are not used by nature and thus permit site-specific modifications that enable study or alteration of macromolecule function. Examples include antibody-drug conjugates for targeted chemotherapy and fluorescent probes of macromolecule interactions. In the lab, we will apply the techniques of chemical biology and ask new research questions. Fundamentals of molecular biology will be discussed as they pertain to our exploration of chemical biology. (CHEM 0205) (5 hrs lect., 5 hrs lab).

Organic Chemistry II: Synthesis and Spectroscopy In this course students will explore how organic molecules are made and their structures are identified. The study of organic reactions will continue from CHEM 0205 with radical reactions, alkene and alkyne additions, aromatic reactions, oxidations, reductions, and additional carbonyl reactions. Emphasis will be placed on using reactions in sequences to synthesize larger and more complex molecules. The theory and practice of mass spectrometry and UV-Vis, IR, and NMR spectroscopy will be studied as a means to elucidate the exact structures of organic molecules. Laboratory experiments will focus on synthetic techniques that complement the lecture material and the identification of complex unknowns via spectrometry and spectroscopic techniques.

Instrumental Analysis In this course we will learn fundamental concepts of analytical chemistry, instrumental analysis, and scientific writing. Lecture topics include experimental design and quality control; sample collection and preparation; calibration, error, and data analysis; statistics; and the theory and operation of chemical instrumentation. Multi-week laboratory projects provide hands-on experience in qualitative and quantitative analysis using a variety of research-quality instrumentation (e.g., UV/Vis spectrophotometry, gas chromatography mass spectrometry, inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry). Writing workshops promote professional scientific writing skills through guided practice in writing analysis, peer review, and revision. (CHEM 0204 or CHEM 0242) 3 hr. lect., 6 hrs. lab.

Inorganic and Physical Chemistry Laboratory In this course students will carry out experiments in the field of inorganic and physical chemistry and write journal-style reports based on their results.  In the first half of the semester students will conduct a multi-step synthesis and characterization of a Mo-Mo complex with a quadruple bond.  Students will learn inert atmosphere synthetic techniques and how to use a glove box.  The synthesized Mo-Mo complex will be characterized by UV-Vis, IR, 1H and 31P NMR spectroscopies, and cyclic voltammetry.  In the second half of the semester students will conduct two physical chemistry experiments.  First students will carry out a kinetic study of the  isomerization of the  Mo-Mo (alpha to beta or beta to alpha) complex by UV-Vis spectroscopy.  Finally, students will obtain the high-resolution IR spectra of acetylene and deuterated acetylene and analyze the rotation-vibration spectra using statistical and quantum mechanics to obtain structural data and interpret the peak intensities.  In addition to the laboratory activities, there will be lectures on metal quadruple bonds, principles of UV-Vis , IR, 1H and 31P NMR spectroscopies, cyclic voltammetry, and statistical mechanics.

Biochemistry Laboratory Experimental biochemistry emphasizing the isolation, purification and characterization of enzymes and the cloning of genes and expression of recombinant protein. Traditional biochemical techniques such as UV-VIS spectroscopy, gel filtration, ion exchange and affinity chromatography, electrophoresis, and immunoblotting will be used in the investigation of several enzymes. Specific experiments will emphasize enzyme purification, enzyme kinetics, and enzyme characterization by biochemical and immunochemical methods. Major techniques in molecular biology will be introduced through an extended experiment that will include DNA purification, polymerase chain reaction, bacterial transformation, DNA sequencing, and the expression, purification, and characterization of the recombinant protein. Class discussions emphasize the underlying principles of the biochemical and molecular techniques employed in the course, and how these experimental tools are improved for particular applications. Laboratory reports stress experimental design, data presentation, and interpretation of results. (CHEM 0322) 2 hr. lect., 6 hrs. lab.

Biochemistry of Macromolecules This course is an introduction to biochemistry that focuses on the chemical and physical properties of amino acids, proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids. Specific topics include the structure and function of proteins, enzyme mechanisms and kinetics, how carbohydrates and lipids contribute to vital cellular and organismal functions, and informational biochemistry (DNA, RNA, and specific enzymes and processes leading to the production of regulatory RNA and proteins). Specific topics from the primary literature will be explored to illustrate how particular techniques and experimental approaches are used to gain a new understanding of biochemistry and molecular biology.

Quantum Chemistry and Spectroscopy Quantum theory is developed and applied to atomic structure and molecular bonding. Spectroscopy is examined as an application of quantum theory.

Thermodynamics and Kinetics for Chemical and Biological Sciences In this course students will learn the central ideas that frame thermodynamics and kinetics.  The application of these ideas to chemical, biological, and the environmental processes will be covered using examples such as refrigerators, heat pumps, fuel cells, bioenergetics, lipid membranes, and catalysts (including enzymes).  (CHEM 0203 Or CHEM 0205 Or CHEM 0211 Or CHEM 0231) 3 hrs lect., 1 hr disc.

Environmental Chemistry & Health In this course we will investigate the relationships between the molecular structure of major classes of environmental pollutants and their properties, environmental fate and transport, and environmental health concerns. Through readings, discussion, and quantitative problem solving, we will examine the chemistry governing global transport and accumulation of pollutants in soils/sediments, waters, the atmosphere, and biota, including the human body. We will examine patterns and causes of environmental injustice associated with toxic exposures and approaches for promoting a more sustainable and just chemical enterprise. Laboratory projects will focus on methods for monitoring and remediating pollution, for elucidating pollutant properties and behavior, and for understanding place-based factors that govern the nature and magnitude of pollution. (any 0200-level CHEM course) 3 hr. lect., 3 hr. lab.

Seminar in Chemical Research This seminar provides students with experiences to support the preparation of a senior thesis. As the course involves participation in a mentored laboratory project and the intent to complete a senior thesis, students must make arrangements to work with a faculty advisor prior to gaining approval for course registration. The classroom portion of this seminar focuses on reading the scientific literature, giving effective oral presentations, and writing the thesis introduction. Particular emphasis will be given to computer and technology issues related to oral and written presentations. Participation will normally be followed by registration for CHEM 0500 or CHEM 0700 (winter term and spring).

Instrumental Analysis In this course we will learn fundamental concepts of instrumental analysis and scientific writing. Lecture topics include experimental design and quality control; sample collection and preparation; calibration, error, and data analysis; statistics; and the theory and operation of chemical instrumentation. Multi-week laboratory projects provide hands-on experience in qualitative and quantitative analysis using a variety of research-quality instrumentation (e.g., UV/Vis spectrophotometry, gas chromatography mass spectrometry, inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, voltammetry and amperometry). Writing workshops promote professional scientific writing skills through guided practice in writing analysis, peer review, and revision. (CHEM 0203 or CHEM 0205 and CHEM 0211) 3 hr. lect., 3 hr. Lab.

Biochemistry Laboratory In this course we will explore traditional methodology and techniques in a modern biochemistry laboratory setting. Students will become competent at working with major types of biomolecules, including isolating, purifying, and characterizing proteins, as well as completing independent research projects. Interpretation and presentation of scientific data will also be covered in both written and oral formats, focused on writing for a scientific audience. (CHEM 0322; CHEM 0211 or BIO 0145 strongly encouraged for all students and required for students matriculating in fall 2025 or later).

Biochemistry of Metabolism A living organism requires thousands of coordinated individual chemical reactions for life.  In this course we will survey the major integrated metabolic pathways of living cells and whole organisms, with particular attention to enzyme mechanisms, as well as the regulation, and integration of metabolism from the molecular to the whole organism level. The synthesis and degradation of carbohydrates, amino acids, lipids, and nucleotides are investigated, along with the mechanisms of energy flow and cell-to-cell communication.   While common metabolic processes are emphasized, unique aspects of metabolism that permit cells to function in unusual niches will also be considered.  Mechanistic and regulatory aspects of metabolic processes will be reinforced through an investigation of inborn errors and organic defects that lead to disease.

Advanced Inorganic Chemistry Atomic structure, bonding theories, and properties applicable to inorganic and organometallic compounds will be developed in depth. Specific topics will include valence bond theory, molecular orbital theory, ligand field theory, applications of group theory, and reaction mechanisms. ((CHEM 0205 Or CHEM 0203) AND (CHEM 0305 Or CHEM 0204))

Advanced Organic Chemistry        This course covers advanced topics in organic chemistry, with the goal of bringing students to the point where they have the knowledge necessary to become lifelong learners of organic chemistry through primary literature, rather than reliance on textbooks.  With this goal in mind, the course will cover qualitative molecular orbital theory and reactive intermediates beyond the anion and cation chemistry which form the main body of the introductory organic chemistry sequence.  More advanced techniques in NMR spectroscopy, stereochemistry, and conformational analysis will also be covered, and the course will culminate in literature examples of total synthesis of natural products, and a final project involving authoring a Wikipedia page on a topic of interest relating to organic chemistry.

Quantum Chemistry and Spectroscopy In this course, we will delve into the foundations of quantum mechanics with an emphasis on atomic structure and molecular rotations, vibrations, and bonding. Approximation methods for multielectron atoms and molecules will be introduced, along with an examination of how spectroscopy provides insight into the microscopic world of molecules. Laboratory experiments, including UV-Vis absorption, infrared absorption, and visible emission spectroscopy, will deepen our understanding of molecular behavior. Additionally, basic computer coding will be introduced to facilitate quantum mechanical calculations and visualization of results. (any CHEM 200-level course; MATH 0122 or if you placed out of MATH 0122 based on high school work, any fall/spring MATH course numbered higher than 0122 or STAT course numbered 0201 or higher; PHYS 0108 or PHYS 0109) 3 hrs. Lect., 3 hrs. Lab

Exercise Biochemistry In this course we will investigate the biochemical, biological, genetic, and psychological factors associated with athletic performance. In lectures and active discussion, we will begin by discussing the origins of exercise physiology in the early 1900’s, introducing topics such as metabolic fuels and their utilization, oxygen and water, metabolism, and physiological adaptations to training. Special attention will be paid to muscle (power) and pulmonary organization and function (VO2 max), and how psychology and the brain (the ‘master regulator’) contribute to achieve maximum performance. We will read several books and papers from the popular and primary literature and consider how they inform our study of exercise. Films and guest lectures by experts and by accomplished endurance athletes will provide a personal perspective. Laboratory and training room sessions will put these themes into practice. We will conclude with student-led group presentations on controversies such as performance enhancing drugs, the efficacy of aggressively marketed supplements, sex determination, technological enhancements and equipment advancements, human rights and political protests, and athlete health and safety.

AJ Vasiliou

Alex Bredar

Ben Cotts

Bob Cluss

Cole Dovey

David Pratt

Emma Guiberson

James Gallagher

James Larrabee

Jeff Byers

Jessica Burl

Kira Rahn

Kristina Shrestha

Linamarie Miller

Lindsay Repka

Logan Fischer

Mary Jane Simpson

Michael French

Michele Dube

Molly Costanza-Robinson

Rick Bunt

Robert Izsak

Roger Sandwick

Sunhee Choi

Thomas Anderson

Read 477 reviews for Chemistry and Biochemistry courses at Middlebury College. Find the best Chemistry and Biochemistry professors and courses.  Discover your new major today!

Professor Rahn was super nice and the exams weren't as difficult as I expected. There were weekly online problem sets, but they were very manageable. Although I feel like the group work in class was a bit redundant, I still enjoyed taking the class.

Prof. Bredar is an enthusiastic, high energy, and kind instructor. Very enjoyable to learn from, and to yap to outside of class. I highly recommend any course by her. 231 was interesting and I found some topics pretty neat.

Biochemistry can be a difficult area to learn about but Professor Miller's teaching style was a huge help. She is very clear about exactly what we are expected to learn and the exams fit the study guides very closely. That said there is a good amount of work and some very tough academic papers that we will read and answer questions about so expect to do ~6 hours of work outside of class on average per week. 