Jacob Wainman

Jacob Wainman serves as an Associate Professor in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at the University of Minnesota Duluth within the Swenson College of Science and Engineering. He teaches Biochemistry, General Chemistry, and previously instructed General Physics, leveraging his interdisciplinary background to enhance science education.

His educational journey includes:

• B.S. in Biology from the University of Minnesota Duluth
• B.S. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from the University of Minnesota Duluth
• M.S. in Chemistry from the University of Minnesota Duluth
• Ph.D. in Biological Chemistry with an Emphasis in Molecular and Cellular Biophysics from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (2016)

Dr. Wainman's research centers on evidence-based teaching practices in chemistry education, with dual focus on specifications-based grading systems and laboratory skill assessment through digital badging. His work investigates student engagement, retention mechanisms, and self-assessment calibration in general chemistry courses, emphasizing active learning and inclusive pedagogy for underrepresented groups.

His 14 publications (2011-2023) reveal a distinct research evolution: early work in biochemistry/biophysics (DNA repair, protein dynamics) transitioned post-2016 to dedicated chemistry education research. Recent studies address grading innovations, lab technique mastery, and gender-inclusive active learning, reflecting a commitment to data-driven pedagogical improvements in STEM education.

No scientific awards were mentioned in the provided text.

Dr. Wainman actively mentors students through the Wainman Group, with co-authorship on recent publications indicating strong student involvement. While specific grant details are absent, his research on specifications-based grading and digital badging systems demonstrates applied educational scholarship directly impacting curriculum design.

The Wainman Group currently operates two major projects: Specifications-Based Grading in General Chemistry II (examining competency-based assessment and knowledge retention) and Assessing General Chemistry Lab Skills (using video submissions and digital badging to evaluate pipetting, volumetric technique, and self-assessment accuracy). These initiatives collaborate with departmental colleagues to enhance student success metrics across chemistry programs.