BENJAMIN K. KAKRA
Greeley,CO
Summary
Motivated and research-driven chemistry graduate student with hands-on experience in photoredox catalysis, polymer chemistry, pharmaceutical analysis, and chemical ecology. Proven expertise in organic synthesis, analytical instrumentation, and scientific communication. Passionate about advancing sustainable chemistry through doctoral studies and contributing to research and mentorship in both academic and applied science settings.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
Work History
Graduate Research Assistant, Buss Lab
University of Northern Colorado
08.2023 - Current
- Synthesizing polymer-supported phenoxazine-based photoredox catalysts via ROMP.
- Characterizing materials using UV-Vis, GPC, fluorescence spectroscopy, and cyclic voltammetry.
- Conducting light-driven transformations as part of NSF SUPRCAT initiative.
- Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams and presenting at conferences.
Teaching Assistant
University of Northern Colorado
08.2023 - Current
- Instruct undergraduate general and organic chemistry labs.
- Supervise experiments, assess reports, and ensure safety compliance.
- Graded assignments, maintained student records, and provided individual tutoring.
- Provide academic support and mentorship.
Teaching and Research Assistant
Kumasi Technical University
11.2022 - 08.2023
- Instruct undergraduate general chemistry labs.
- Supervise experiments, assess reports, and ensure safety compliance.
- Graded assignments, maintained student records, and provided individual tutoring.
- Advised students on academic planning and coursework selection.
Undergraduate Researcher, Organic Chemical Ecology
Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology
01.2021 - 01.2021
- Conducted GC-MS analysis of insect-induced plant volatiles for bioactive compound identification.
- Investigated semiochemicals for pest control and sustainable agriculture.
Science Teacher
Abrobiano Islamic Basic School
06.2020 - 01.2021
- Taught science, mathematics, and social studies.
- Adapted content for diverse learning needs.
Education
M.S. - Chemistry
University of Northern Colorado
Greeley, CO07.2025
B.Sc. - Chemistry
Kwame Nkrumah University of Science And Technology
Kumasi, Ghana01.2022
High School Diploma - General Science
Edinaman Senior High School
Elmina, Ghana05.2017
Skills
- Instrumentation: GC-MS, NMR, UV-Vis, Fluorescence Spectroscopy, FTIR, and GPC
- Synthesis Techniques: ROMP, air-sensitive reactions, multistep organic synthesis
- Analysis Tools: Data interpretation, scientific writing, research reporting
- Lab Practices: Safety protocols, equipment maintenance, reagent preparation
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Self-directed and motivated
- Academic presentations
- Literature reviews
- Scientific communication
- Problem-solving
- Strong work ethic
Affiliations
- Sodexo UNC Student Staff Rookie of the Year
- Sodexo UNC Student Staff Employee of the Month
- Member, SUPRCAT Research Group
- Member, American Chemical Society (ACS)
- Member, Ghana Students’ Chemical Society (GSCS)
Languages
English
Native or Bilingual
French
Elementary
Timeline
Graduate Research Assistant, Buss Lab
University of Northern Colorado
08.2023 - Current
Teaching Assistant
University of Northern Colorado
08.2023 - Current
Teaching and Research Assistant
Kumasi Technical University
11.2022 - 08.2023
Undergraduate Researcher, Organic Chemical Ecology
Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology
01.2021 - 01.2021
Science Teacher
Abrobiano Islamic Basic School
06.2020 - 01.2021
M.S. - Chemistry
University of Northern Colorado
B.Sc. - Chemistry
Kwame Nkrumah University of Science And Technology
High School Diploma - General Science
Edinaman Senior High School
Publications
- KNUST Annual Scientific Research Conference, KNUST-Ghana, June 2022
- SUPRCAT Annual Research Conference, Colorado State University, April 2024
- Polymer Day Annual Conference, Colorado State University, June 2024
- Teaching Conference for GPIs and GTAs, UNC, August 2024
- PreTeXt Workshop, UNC, OER Conference
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