Bring on advanced chemistry learners from Albion College to be your virtual interns, in a project-based experience as they are introduced to topics in quantum chemistry, molecular modeling, and molecular dynamics. Learners will work on one or more projects of your choosing over the internship period, connecting with you via virtual communication tools, as needed.

The students are enrolled in a course that delves into the microscopic and molecular foundations of chemistry, exploring topics such as molecular mechanics and quantum mechanics techniques which are used to predict the structures, energies, and fundamental properties of atoms and molecules. Learners will gain experience in ab initio quantum mechanics methods (Hartree-Fock, Moeller-Plesset/Configuration Interaction, and density functional theory (DFT) ), semi-empirical methods (MNDO, PM3, ZINDO), and molecular mechanics which can be used to perform molecular geometry optimizations, determine molecular orbitals and energies, and can be used to calculate molecular, thermodynamic, and spectroscopic properties. These methods involve building and visualizing molecules in three dimensions (3D) and performing calculations on molecules containing atoms ranging from two to hundreds.

Learners will also be introduced to the fundamentals of molecular dynamics calculations and simulations which can be used to predict atomic trajectories for complex systems.

Deliverables are negotiable, and will seek to align the needs of the learners and the organization. 

Some final project deliverables might include: 

1. A 10-15 minute presentation on key findings and recommendations
2. A detailed report including their research, analysis, insights and recommendations