Alex Blom

Alex Blom is a Professor and Chair of the Department of Physical Sciences at Alverno College, where he has taught since 2009. He instructs courses including Foundations of Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, Chemistry of Bio-organic Molecules, Instrumental Analysis, Chemistry of Inorganic Materials, and Integrated Science.

Education:

• Bachelor of Science in Chemistry with minor in Mathematics from Minnesota State University, Mankato
• PhD in Physical Chemistry from Iowa State University

Research Interests:

Dr. Blom's work bridges core chemical disciplines with critical environmental applications. His expertise in Thermodynamics and Kinetics informs studies on pharmaceutical breakdown in aquatic ecosystems, while Quantum Mechanics and Computational Chemistry underpin analyses of molecular interactions in contaminated water systems. His field-focused approach emphasizes practical solutions for Water Quality challenges like lead contamination.

Grants and Advising:

Professor Blom has secured multiple equipment and research grants, most significantly a $275,000 USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture award—the college's first major Hispanic Serving Institution grant—to develop an aquaponics-equipped greenhouse for hands-on learning. He actively mentors undergraduate researchers through industry partnerships with MillerCoors and ACL Laboratories, focusing on low-cost technological enhancements for educational settings.

Institutional Engagement:

• Chair of Physical Sciences Department
• Member of Alverno College Transfer Task Force