Jason Dwyer
Professor, Chemistry
Dwyer’s research program spans analytical and bioanalytical chemistry, environmental monitoring, nanofabrication and materials science, sensor development, and biopolymer analysis. He is interested in developing and applying tools to help researchers to better detect problem molecules and particles wherever they occur, characterize their properties and reveal their interactions with other species, and provide understanding that can support efforts such as material repurposing, remediation, and extraction of higher-value components from complex mixtures. Projects have included improving DNA sequencing technology and advancing the analysis of carbohydrate biopolymers, where both of these biologically important polymer classes are important in environments as diverse as human blood and marine waters. Nanopore sensing capable of electronically detecting and characterizing single molecules and Raman spectroscopy capable of optically analyzing complex mixtures—are two of the principal techniques used in my research group. Both are very useful for characterizing the identity and properties of plastics on the microscopic and molecular levels.
“We work to develop new technology to detect and profile polymers with a particular focus on high-value biopolymers used in clinical therapeutics and food products. Our technology can be used for quality assurance; product purification by physically, chemically, and electrically controlled filtrations/separations; and to study polymer degradation products and pathways.”
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Header image credit: Jasmin Sessler