"This award will allow us to build on our commitment to a quality science program at Hamilton College," said Shields. " This makes it possible for a young scientist to learn how to conduct original research with undergraduates and balance the demands of teaching in a liberal arts environment."
Shields was one of six recipients of the award nationwide, which is designed to reward chemistry faculty with successful student-centered research programs and allow a recent Ph.D. to spend two years at an undergraduate institution. As the Dreyfus Scholar, Shields will appoint a Fellow to share his teaching and research duties for the 2000-2001 and 2001-2002 academic years. His selection for the project entitled, "Quantum biology and computational biochemistry: transition-state analogs and catalytic antibodies," was based on the Foundation's conviction that he, and Hamilton College, would provide a stimulating environment for a new Ph.D. interested in pursuing a teaching and research career at an undergraduate institution. The Award, for $65,000, includes a $5,000 supplement for involvement of high school teachers and/or students.
Hamilton College is a highly selective residential college offering a rigorous liberal arts curriculum. Students are challenged to think, write and speak critically, creatively and analytically, so that upon graduation they may distinguish themselves in both their professions and their communities.
