Leroy E. Laverman

Leroy E. Laverman is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry at the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB), with a joint appointment in the College of Creative Studies. His primary roles involve teaching and curriculum development, particularly in analytical chemistry, physical chemistry, and instrumental analysis laboratories. He received his Ph.D. from UCSB in 1999 under Dr. Peter Ford, focusing on nitric oxide reaction mechanisms with metalloporphyrins.

Dr. Laverman has been instrumental in modernizing upper-division chemistry laboratory curricula through grants such as the $30,000 Camille and Henry Dreyfus Foundation award (2023), which funded new instrumentation including UV-Vis spectrometers, fluorimeters, and Raman spectrometers. His research interests span chemical education, physical chemistry, and spectroscopic methods, with a focus on integrating advanced instrumentation into undergraduate teaching.

Recent work includes developing experiments around quantum dots, semiconductor materials, and photophysical properties of transition metal complexes. Collaborations with Dr. Geoff Strouse highlight his commitment to advancing hands-on learning through innovative laboratory modules.

• Affiliations: College of Creative Studies, Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry
• Key Projects: Dreyfus Foundation-funded lab instrumentation upgrades