Jason Belitsky

Jason Belitsky is an Associate Professor of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Oberlin College, part of the College of Arts and Sciences. He earned his BA from Amherst College (1997) and PhD from the California Institute of Technology (2002). Postdoctoral training at UCLA under Nobel Laureate J. Fraser Stoddart preceded his academic career at Oberlin. He co-founded the Center for Learning, Education, and Research in the Sciences (CLEAR), emphasizing pedagogical innovation. Teaching includes general, organic, and biochemistry courses (e.g., CHEM 254: Bioorganic Chemistry).

Research focuses on melanin’s molecular recognition properties, exploring its roles in biology, disease, and applications like water purification and heavy metal sensing. His NSF-funded project, “Bioorganic Chemistry of Eumelanin,” investigates melanin self-assembly and interactions with pollutants. Collaborations with students (e.g., CHEM 254) yield practical insights, such as melanin-inspired coatings for environmental sensing. Recent grants include NSF support, and awards include a 2024 Top Poster Award for integrating undergraduate research into his work.

Publications span topics from melanin synthesis to atmospheric chemistry mechanisms. He actively publishes in journals like ACS Earth and Space Chemistry and Supramolecular Chemistry. His lab employs organic synthesis, biochemical, and materials science approaches to bridge fundamental and applied research.