Research in the Potts Lab

Research in the Potts Lab

I have several research interests including: analytical spectroscopy, forensic chemistry, environmental analytical chemistry, bioremediation, lasers, plasma sources, optics and sensors.

Research Goals and Objectives: Presenting real-world applications of scientific theories gives the students the opportunity to understand how science interacts with their everyday lives. In addition, scientific material may seem less daunting when societal issues are addressed. Hands-on experience and applicability to the real world are key factors in encouraging students to think creatively and to expand on class-taught theories. Therefore, independent research is an essential component of undergraduate education. My research projects combine environmental and forensic science with analytical instrumentation to solve urgent issues. Research is conducted throughout the year, but it will be divided into short-term goals that can be accomplished during the summer term as well as during an academic semester. I believe that students who are engaged in dynamic problem solving develop essential skills that help them continue the learning process following their formal education.


 Past Group Members (list of past students and projects)

(UTC Graduation year in parenthesis, departmental honors thesis indicated by asterisk)
  • Mitchell Lutey (2021)
  • Robert Donaldson (2020-2021)
  • Alivia Fann (2020-2021)
  • Samantha Sweck (2020)
  • Elizabeth Zuy (2020)*
  • Cintly Guzman-Hernandez (2018)*
  • Falander Lamar Houston (2017)
  • Peyton Scott (2017)
  • Myranda DeMailly (2017)
  • Katherine Adorati (2016)*
  • Jay Patel (2016)
  • Veronica Hubble (2014)
  • Jessica Murray (2014)*
  • Joshua Justice (2013)*
  • Amy Balestrino (2012)*
  • Katherine Thurman (2012)*
  • Samantha Hughey (2011)
  • Matthew Stephens (2011)
  • Daniel Burriss (2010)
  • German Morera (2010)
  • Holly Lynch (2010)
  • Shanelle Newton (2010)
  • Jessica Moerman (2009)*
  • Sarah Easparam (2008)*
  • Chris Randolph (2008)
  • Janet Jones (2006)
  • Deana Goods (2005)
  • Timothy Brooks (2007)*
  • Kira Shurtz
  • Kim Bryson
  • Jane Dickerson (2005)*
  • Chanda Cooper (2004)
Students at Pittcon
Students at Disney
Student on snorkeling tour in PR