Dr. Carmen Huffman

Biography

I am originally from New Hampshire and have been working my way south with stops in Rhode Island and the Washington DC area to support my education. I have lived in North Carolina since 2005 and am happy to call this Cullowhee valley my home. I have two boys. I love crafts, particularly knitting, sewing, and making stationary. I also play the piano and love to spend time in the garden hanging out with my chickens.

Education

• Ph D, University of Maryland-College Park, Chemistry
• BS, University of Rhode Island, Chemistry

Teaching Interests

physical chemistry - CHEM 352, 372, 453, 473, 553<br>general chemistry - CHEM 139, 140<br>graduate seminar - CHEM 596, 696

Research Interests

<u>Molecular Structure and Binding at Solid/Aqueous Interfaces</u><br>As a physical chemist, my research focuses on understanding why and how molecules behave the way they do. One aspect of particular interest for our group is exploring adsorption mechanisms. These are the ways in which molecules bind to surfaces. One system we are currently studying is the binding of heavy metal ions to natural products for the purpose of removing pollutants from water systems. We also explore the binding of nanoparticles to a variety of surfaces, such as cotton, for antimicrobial uses.