Photo Credit : Helia Hollenhorst
The Speed lab is a young research group at Dalhousie University, engaged in the discovery of simple, robust and inexpensive catalysts to simplify chemical manufacturing. We aim to discover new reactivity mediated by soluble main group compounds that lessens the environmental burden of fine chemical production, while providing a high quality chemical education.
We seek to create an inclusive group, where people of differing backgrounds, interests and lived experiences are treated with respect, and are able to express themselves without intimidation, or being made to feel like an "outsider". The differing perspectives that people of different backgrounds bring serve to advance our science if everyone has a voice. I recognize that many socioeconomic and demographic factors can result in differing levels of preparation and opportunity that have been afforded to potential students, and reflect on this both in admissions and mentoring. I reflect on my own challenges and successes I had in my training, which helps me recognize that different people have different approaches to learning, and levels of independence and self-assertiveness. These experiences prompt me to try and adapt my management style for a good fit.
Prospective Students:
If you are interested in working in the Speed group, a starting point is to contact Dr. Speed by e-mail, but please read the following category before doing so:
Undergraduates:
Undergraduate research has driven a large part of my group's research program. Undergraduate research opportunities for Dalhousie students can involve Experiential Learning (CHEM 3801), Honours Projects (CHEM 4902/4903), or 16 week summer research opportunities. The 16 week summer research opportunities are paid, but are usually contingent on student funding. Interested and eligible students may contact Dr. Speed and apply to NSERC USRA and internal Dalhousie Scholarships in early January. I am also happy to hear from exchange students with their own funding on official exchange programs with Dalhousie. We have participated in the Inorganic Chemistry Exchange (ICE program) in the past. I am not participating in ICE in 2023.
In general, experience with at least the second year organic course at Dalhousie or an equivalent background knowledge gained through courses elsewhere, or independent study is needed to participate in my lab's projects. Accordingly we do not have suitable projects for first-year undergraduate students.
Graduate Students:
We usually have 2-4 graduate students at a time, though are seeking to grow. We do not currently have unrestricted funding to support graduate student recruitment, so applicants who are interested in graduate studies will need to be eligible for, and explore external funding options such as NSERC Scholarships, Nova Scotia Graduate Scholarships, and the other Harmonized scholarships available through Dalhousie. I'm happy to work with interested and eligible students to craft proposals. Please note these scholarships are usually time sensitive, and involve communication well before you plan on starting your degree. The NSERC application process usually occurs in late Fall, while the Harmonized Scholarships are usually due in mid- January.
Postdoctoral Students:
Unfortunately I do not currently have funding for a post-doctoral position (inquiries from post-doctoral candidates with their own funding are welcome). Due to a large number of broad post-doctoral applications I receive requesting funded positions, I am unable to reply to most requests or follow-up e-mails.
