Amelia Sweet is a dedicated graduate student pursuing a Ph.D. in Computational Chemistry at the University of Iowa. With a strong background in both theoretical and applied chemistry, Amelia focuses on the study of molecular interactions and surface phenomena. Her research involves advanced computational techniques and has resulted in several notable publications and presentations. Amelia’s professional journey reflects a commitment to both research and education in the field of chemistry.

Author Metrics

Scopus Profile

ORCID Profile

Amelia Sweet has demonstrated notable contributions to the field of computational chemistry, evidenced by her publications and presentations. Her work on DFT studies and adsorption phenomena has garnered attention in scientific communities, as shown by her published paper in Surface Science and multiple presentations at significant chemistry conferences.

• Citations: 1,703 across 1,451 documents
• Documents: 102
• h-index: 19

Education

Amelia completed her Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry from Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota in May 2020, where she received the American Chemical Society Award for her thesis work on tungsten-based polyoxometalates. She is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Chemistry at the University of Iowa, under the co-advisement of Dr. Sara Mason and Dr. Scott Shaw. Her doctoral research focuses on computational studies of molecular adsorption and interactions.

Research Focus

Amelia’s research primarily revolves around the use of Density Functional Theory (DFT) to study molecular interactions with metal surfaces. Her work involves conducting DFT calculations using VASP and performing adsorption studies of organic molecules, specifically nitrobenzene, on metal surfaces like Ag(111). Her research aims to deepen the understanding of surface chemistry and adsorption phenomena.

Professional Journey

Amelia’s professional journey includes roles as a Research Assistant and Teaching Assistant at the University of Iowa. As a Research Assistant, she has been engaged in conducting periodic DFT calculations and studying adsorption processes. Her experience as a Teaching Assistant involved instructing undergraduate students in introductory chemistry and analytical measurements laboratories. Additionally, Amelia participated in a Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) program at Coe College, where she developed scintillating glass for high-energy applications.

Honors & Awards

Amelia was honored with the American Chemical Society Award during her undergraduate studies for her exceptional thesis on tungsten-based polyoxometalates. This recognition highlights her academic excellence and potential in the field of chemistry.

Publications Noted & Contributions

Amelia has contributed to several key publications and presentations in her field. Notably, she has published an article on the interaction of nitrobenzene with the Ag(111) surface in Surface Science. Her research has also been presented at various conferences, including the Midwest and National Meetings of the American Chemical Society, showcasing her work on molecular adsorption and DFT studies.

Books and Book Chapters

Title: Naturally Occurring Chemicals for the Treatment and Management of Diabetes Mellitus and Related Disorders

• Year: 2024
• DOI: 10.52305/WBBQ6236
• Contributors: Ajmer Singh Grewal, Geeta Deswal, Ashwani Kumar Dhingra, Priyanka Kriplani, Bhawna Chopra, Shikha Baghel Chauhan

Journal Articles

Title: Aaptamine: A Versatile Marine Alkaloid for Antioxidant, Antibacterial, and Anticancer Therapeutics

• Journal: Chemistry
• Date: August 3, 2024
• DOI: 10.3390/chemistry6040040
• Contributors: Navin Kumar Tailor, Geeta Deswal, Ajmer Singh Grewal

Title: Benefits of Medicinal Plants in Boosting Immunity against Viral Infections Including COVID-19

• Journal: Current Traditional Medicine
• Date: January 24, 2024
• DOI: 10.2174/0122150838266498231130014802
• Contributors: Uday Bhan Prajapati, Arun Lal Srivastav, Ajmer Singh Grewal

Title: Novel Cinnamic Acid Derivatives as Potential Anticancer Agents: Synthesis, In Vitro Cytotoxicity and Molecular Docking Studies

• Journal: Biointerface Research in Applied Chemistry
• Year: 2023
• DOI: 10.33263/BRIAC132.150
• EID: 2-s2.0-85127986213
• Contributors: Kaur, P., Grewal, A.S., Pandita, D., Lather, V.

Title: Role of Medicinal Plants in the Management of Inflammatory Disorders: An Overview

• Journal: Recent Advances in Inflammation & Allergy Drug Discovery
• Year: 2023
• DOI: 10.2174/2772270817666230227140659
• WOSUID: WOS:001042798300004
• Contributors: Garg, Madhukar; Sharma, Abhinav; Bansal, Shivam; Grover, Rupanshi; Sharma, Tanya; Kumari, Sapna; Goyal, Anju; Bhatia, Shiveena; Vaid, Lavish; Deswal, Geeta et al.

Research Timeline

Amelia’s research timeline includes her initial work in the REU program in 2019, followed by her continued research and doctoral studies starting in 2020. Her current research involves ongoing studies of adsorption phenomena and DFT calculations. Key milestones include her presentations and publications from 2022 to 2024, reflecting the progression and impact of her research.

Collaborations and Projects

Amelia’s research is collaborative, involving work with Dr. Sara Mason and Dr. Scott Shaw at the University of Iowa. Her projects include the study of molecular adsorption using computational methods and the development of educational materials for teaching collaborative science. Her collaborative efforts extend to presenting and publishing research findings in partnership with other chemists and educators.

Strengths of the Best Researcher Award

1. Significant Research Contributions: Prof. Ajmer Singh Grewal’s extensive publication record demonstrates a deep and impactful contribution to drug discovery and medicinal chemistry. His research on naturally occurring chemicals and medicinal plants is highly relevant and influential.
2. Diverse Research Topics: The breadth of his work, ranging from diabetes management to anticancer agents and antioxidant therapeutics, highlights his versatility and comprehensive approach to medicinal chemistry.
3. High Citation Metrics: With 1,703 citations across 1,451 documents and an h-index of 19, Prof. Grewal’s work is well-recognized and respected in the scientific community, indicating significant influence and impact.
4. Collaboration with Renowned Researchers: His collaborations with prominent researchers, such as Geeta Deswal and Ashwani Kumar Dhingra, enhance the quality and reach of his research, contributing to its high visibility and credibility.
5. Recognition and Awards: The Best Researcher Award is a testament to Prof. Grewal’s contributions to the field. It acknowledges his excellence in research and his role in advancing drug discovery.

Areas for Improvement

1. Research Focus Narrowing: While the diversity of research topics is a strength, narrowing the focus to a few key areas could lead to more in-depth studies and potentially more groundbreaking discoveries.
2. Public Engagement: Increasing public engagement through popular science articles or community outreach can help translate his research into broader societal benefits and enhance public understanding of his work.
3. Interdisciplinary Research: Expanding into interdisciplinary research areas, such as combining drug discovery with biotechnology or artificial intelligence, could provide new insights and opportunities for innovation.
4. Collaborative Efforts: Although collaborations are strong, fostering new partnerships with institutions or researchers in different regions or fields could provide fresh perspectives and broaden the scope of research.
5. Funding and Resources: Securing additional funding and resources could enhance research capabilities, allowing for more extensive studies and the development of new technologies or methodologies.

Conclusion

Prof. Ajmer Singh Grewal’s recognition with the Best Researcher Award reflects his outstanding contributions to the field of drug discovery and medicinal chemistry. His research spans a wide range of topics and has significantly impacted the scientific community, as evidenced by his high citation metrics and collaborative efforts. While there are areas for improvement, such as narrowing research focus and enhancing public engagement, Prof. Grewal’s accomplishments highlight his leadership and influence in advancing medicinal chemistry. His future work, potentially incorporating interdisciplinary approaches and expanded collaborations, promises to further elevate his impact on the field.