Sarah Petty

Sarah Petty serves as Associate Professor and Assistant Dean for the Class of 2030 in the Department of Chemistry at College of the Holy Cross, where she has taught since 2006. Her academic foundation includes a Ph.D. from the University of Liverpool.

Her research program investigates protein misfolding mechanisms using infrared spectroscopy, with direct relevance to neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Current laboratory projects focus on reversing pathological peptide misfolding and analyzing stabilizing interactions in short alanine-based peptides. This work bridges fundamental biophysical chemistry with biomedical applications through structural analysis of disease-related protein aggregates.

Professor Petty maintains an active publication record through 2020, demonstrating consistent research output in journals spanning vibrational spectroscopy, chemical physics, and biochemical communications. Her collaborative approach regularly includes undergraduate co-authors, reflecting integration of research and teaching missions.

She mentors undergraduate researchers in laboratory techniques and scientific communication, with students contributing to publications and gaining hands-on experience in chemical instrumentation. Her administrative role as Assistant Dean further demonstrates institutional commitment beyond traditional faculty responsibilities.

The laboratory environment emphasizes practical spectroscopy skills and structural analysis of biological molecules, providing students with technical proficiency applicable to graduate studies or scientific careers. Current projects specifically target disease-related peptide misfolding mechanisms through infrared spectral analysis.