Chemistry Students Conduct Advanced Research at Clarkson University

Chemistry students at Jefferson Community College (JCC) recently gained advanced, hands-on research experience through a collaborative project with Clarkson University. As part of their Honors Program chemistry research, students extracted pectin from fruit in Jefferson’s laboratories under the guidance of Instructor Rabab Aoun, Ph.D., to explore how this natural material can enhance aerogels used in applications such as wound dressings, food gels, and agriculture.

Building on their on-campus work, Jefferson students visited Clarkson University’s Science Center to continue their research in a university-level laboratory environment. In Professor Silvana Andreescu’s lab and under the mentorship of Clarkson graduate student Jehad Abdelnabi, students conducted experiments using the pectin they produced at Jefferson and were able to work with advanced scientific instrumentation.

The collaboration provided students with exposure to real-world applications of sustainable materials research while strengthening foundational lab skills, including the use of infrared (IR) spectroscopy for product analysis. The experience also allowed students to explore pathways for future study and careers in STEM fields.

“Providing meaningful, hands-on learning is central to our mission,” said Daniel J. Dupee, II, President. “This collaboration with Clarkson University gives our students direct access to advanced research environments and reinforces the power of partnerships in strengthening educational opportunities across the North Country.”

“This project showcases how our undergraduate students can engage in authentic scientific inquiry,” said Donna Stevenson, Associate Vice President of STEM, Health Professions, and Business. “By beginning their research at Jefferson and then expanding it in Clarkson’s laboratories, students gain both the foundational skills and the broader perspective needed to succeed in STEM pathways.”

This collaboration reflects Jefferson’s mission to educate, inspire, and empower students through meaningful, hands-on learning experiences that prepare them for transfer and career success.