Peter Balanda

Peter Balanda serves as Professor in the Department of Physical Sciences at Ferris State University's College of Arts, Sciences and Education, with contact details including email PeterBalanda@ferris.edu and phone (231) 591-5870.

His academic credentials comprise:

• PhD, University of Florida, Chemistry
• BA, Albion College, Biology

Dr. Balanda's research integrates synthetic organic chemistry and pedagogical innovation, specializing in benzoxazole synthesis from resorcinol/hydroquinone derivatives and copolymerization kinetics. His chemical education work focuses on developing collaborative research-based organic chemistry laboratory curricula, presented at premier forums including ACS National Meetings and Gordon Research Conferences.

He mentors undergraduate researchers such as B. Hull and D. Taylor on synthesis projects, with findings showcased at university symposia. His laboratory pedagogy initiatives receive grant support including NSF-funded instrumentation upgrades like FT-NMR systems for enhanced spectroscopic analysis in teaching labs.

Within the Physical Sciences department, Dr. Balanda maintains active research partnerships with colleagues D. Adsmond and D. Frank, collectively advancing evidence-based chemistry education practices through conference presentations and curriculum implementation studies.