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In our academic unit we recognize that graduate students in chemistry face multiple and complex challenges in their research careers beyond technical setbacks, so the Department of Chemistry has developed an Introductory Professional Development Class for Chemists, serving students since 2014. The course has greatly evolved since then and now encompasses a myriad of topics that work in tandem to best prepare future scientists for the workplace and for their research fields.
CHEM 591 is taken by both chemistry and chemical & biomolecular engineering graduate students in their first semester on campus to provide a broad overview of non-research skills that are important during graduate school and for their professional careers. The class presents students with challenging conversations, difficult topics, assignments in self-reflection of professional growth, and opportunities to engage in meaningful dialogue. Attendance is required, and the class meets weekly for 1.5 hours in the Fall semester of each academic year.
This course will cover topics to prepare graduate students for all aspects of graduate culture, which include:
- Developing cultural competence and awareness to enable effective professional interactions with scientists from all backgrounds through lenses of understanding, respect and collaboration.
- Grasping the dimensions and limitations in responsible conduct in research, data management, and publications.
- Developing a skillset essential to graduate school success in areas such as program management, conflict resolution, and time management.
- Grasping the importance and the relevance of managing mental health and wellness throughout their careers and in their specialized areas of work.
- Understanding the departmental expectations on appropriate professional conduct.
- Acquiring the necessary knowledge to promote and protect safety standards inside and outside of the laboratory setting.
- Exploring your own identity as a scientist and as a researcher.
The course is taught by the Assistant Director of Student Wellness and Advocacy in the Chemical Sciences, Raylene Bentlin. And it is geared towards promoting a sense of wellness and awareness for all graduate students in the areas of cultural competency, safety standards, research and professional expectations, and professional development.
More information on the specialized topics and sessions for the Fall of 2026 will be coming soon!
Contact Raylene Bentlin: