Zetandro Banarjee

As a Graduate Teaching Lab Assistant at Southeast Missouri State University, I instructed and supervised General Chemistry and Organic Chemistry I & II laboratory sessions, ensuring students developed a strong understanding of fundamental concepts. I provided individualized instruction and mentoring, assisting students with problem-solving, data analysis, and laboratory techniques. Additionally, I developed and implemented interactive learning materials, including lab protocols, syllabi, and instructional handouts, to enhance student engagement. My role also involved grading assignments, maintaining records, and preparing reports, ensuring timely feedback and academic support. I enforced laboratory safety protocols, guided students in proper chemical handling and lab procedures, and conducted review sessions and tutorials to clarify complex topics such as reaction mechanisms, spectroscopy, and stereochemistry.

As a Discussion Teaching Assistant for Organic Chemistry 1 & 2 at The University of Iowa, I facilitated engaging discussion sessions to reinforce key lecture concepts and improve student understanding. I guided students through problem-solving exercises, group discussions, and conceptual reviews, helping them develop critical thinking and analytical skills. I created an interactive and supportive learning environment that encouraged student participation by adapting teaching strategies to accommodate diverse learning styles. Additionally, I provided individualized assistance, clarifying complex topics and addressing student questions to enhance comprehension. I also collaborated with faculty to align discussion content with course objectives, assisted in grading assignments, and offered constructive feedback to support student success.

In addition to my teaching responsibilities, I have gained extensive research experience as a Graduate Research Assistant at The University of Iowa. My research focuses on transition metal catalysis, organic synthesis, and mechanistic studies, where I investigated the influence of transition metals on cycloaddition and cross-coupling reactivity of boron-centered ligands. I have also conducted total synthesis and mechanistic studies of neuroprotective limonoid natural products, exploring their structure-activity relationships. My work involves data analysis using advanced statistical tools, conducting literature reviews to enhance research quality, and collaborating with faculty and research teams to develop innovative experimental strategies. I have presented my findings at conferences and workshops, contributed to managed multiple research projects while ensuring adherence to high scientific standards.

• Poster Presentation, University of Iowa Open House, 09/01/23
• Poster Presentation, ACS Midwest Regional Meeting, 09/01/22
• Poster Presentation, American Chemical Society (ACS), 03/01/21
• Poster Presentation, Southeast Missouri State University Annual Student Research Conference, 03/01/21

• NIH
• NSF

At the Annual Student Research Conference at Southeast Missouri State University, I presented my research on the oxidative cleavage of alkynes using solid-supported ruthenium tetroxide (RuO₄). My work focused on developing a greener and more sustainable catalytic approach by immobilizing RuO₄ on a solid support to enhance reaction efficiency and recyclability while minimizing hazardous waste. I discussed the reaction mechanism, catalyst stability, and product selectivity, highlighting its potential applications in organic synthesis. Through this presentation, I engaged with faculty and peers, defended my findings, and gained valuable experience in scientific communication and research dissemination.