Adam Kinyua
Louisville,KY
Summary
I'm a computational chemistry graduate student specializing in modeling electron-remnant coupling during photodetachment processes using time-dependent configuration singles. My work heavily utilizes Gaussian 16 and Merced quantum chemistry Package (mqcPack) for quantum chemistry simulations, with Fortran as my primary coding language and Python-based scripting for automation. Skilled in data cleaning via command-line tools and data visualization in Python, I also write research papers in LaTeX for structured presentation. Beyond computational chemistry, I have expertise in machine learning and software development. My goal is to transition into data science or software development, leveraging my analytical and programming skills to solve real world problems
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
Work History
Graduate Research Assistant
Dr. Lee Thompson
01.2024 - Current
- Develops computational methods in Fortran to study photodetachment processes and associated interactions.
- Utilizes Bash commands for efficient data preprocessing, subsequently parsing cleaned data into MATLAB or Python for analysis and visualization.
- Engages in regular research meetings with the principal investigator and group members, providing weekly updates and delivering structured presentations.
- Contributed to manuscript preparation, leading to the publication of an article in the Journal of Chemical Physics.
Graduate Teaching Assistant
University of Louisville
08.2021 - 12.2023
- Checked assignments, proctored tests and provided grades according to university standards.
- Developed strong rapport with students through open communication channels, fostering an inclusive learning environment.
- Enhanced student comprehension by incorporating visual aids and real-world examples into lectures.
- Provided timely and constructive feedback on assignments, enabling students to refine their work and achieve higher grades.
- Supported instructors in grading exams and papers, maintaining accurate records of student performance throughout the semester.
- Served as a liaison between faculty members and students, addressing concerns and facilitating resolution of issues promptly.
- Documented attendance and completed assignments to maintain full class and student records.
- Mentored students through office hours and one-on-one communication.
- Collaborated with fellow teaching assistants to provide additional support for struggling students, leading to improved academic outcomes.
- Managed a classroom of diverse learners, implementing differentiated instruction strategies to meet individual student needs.
- Assisted in the development of course materials, ensuring content was relevant and engaging for students.
Head of Chemical Hygiene
Berea College
08.2020 - 05.2021
- Successfully oversaw and maintained the storage of chemicals in the lab
- Duties included organizing chemicals in a chronological manner, and training students and other teaching assistants on laboratory safety
- Collaborated with the head teaching associate to oversee and manage the workload of 15 teaching assistants in the chemistry department
Summer Research Assistant
Berea College
05.2019 - 05.2019
- Worked under Dr. Matthew Saderholm to synthesize C-terminal peptide aldehydes using Liberty Lite Peptide Synthesizer
- Learned the fundamentals of literature review, project conception and design, data collection and analysis, writing reports and the presentation of findings
Summer Research Assistant
University of Kentucky
05.2018 - 07.2018
- Worked under Prof. John Anthony to make low-cost, carbon based solar cells and transistors through bulk hetero-junction organic photovoltaic process
Education
Master of Science (M.S.) - Computational Chemistry
University of Louisville
Louisville, Kentucky12.2023
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) - Chemistry, Biology
Berea College
Berea, Kentucky05.2021
Skills
- Python
- Fortran
- Bash
- Data Analysis
- Machine learning
- Software development
- Quantum Mechanics
- Classical Mechanics
- Academic presentations
- Research and analysis
- Data analysis
Projects And Research Work
Investigation of Diffuse Electron Effects on Molecules, with a Focus on 2-butene and Hydrogen Molecules, Came up with a method for computing the natural orbital of dynamic molecular structures., Developed a computational model to simulate the effects of moving point charges on molecular systems.
Presentations
- Presented research at the Kentucky Academy of Science (KAS).
- Participated in the Berea Undergraduate Research Symposium (BURS).
- Presented at NOBCChE conference held in October, 2024 in Florida
Awards
- Best Chemistry Teaching Assistant Award, 03/01/23, Recognized for outstanding contributions to the Chemistry Department.
- Louise Veltin Memorial Award, 01/01/21, Recognized for exemplary citizenship.
- Class of 1958 Chemistry Academic Achievement Award, 01/01/21, Acknowledged for outstanding performance in Chemistry.
- Pinnacle Honor Society Award for Non-Traditional Students, 01/01/21, Recognized for academic excellence.
- Paul Vernom Kreider Jr. Award, 01/01/21, Awarded for reading over 30 books from personal library.
- Best graduate teaching assistant, UofL chemistry department, 2023
Accomplishments
1. Developed a semi-classical model to study electron-remnant coupling based on Time-dependent Configuration Interaction Singles that leading to a publication
2. Currently advancing the semi-classical model above to full quantum chemistry model
Publications
1. Photoelectron-remnant interaction effects on remnant wavefunctions in low kinetic energy electron detachment events Kinyua, A. M.; Hratchian, H. P.; Jarrold, C. C.; Thompson, L. M. J. Chem. Phys. 2025 , 162 (6), 064304.
Languages
English
Native or Bilingual
Swahili
Native or Bilingual
Timeline
Graduate Research Assistant
Dr. Lee Thompson
01.2024 - Current
Graduate Teaching Assistant
University of Louisville
08.2021 - 12.2023
Head of Chemical Hygiene
Berea College
08.2020 - 05.2021
Summer Research Assistant
Berea College
05.2019 - 05.2019
Summer Research Assistant
University of Kentucky
05.2018 - 07.2018
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) - Chemistry, Biology
Berea College
Master of Science (M.S.) - Computational Chemistry
University of Louisville
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