Christopher Komatsu

Background

About Christopher Komatsu

Research professional with a PhD in Organic Chemistry from Texas A&M University under the guidance of Dr. Karen L. Wooley (August 7th, 2020). Former Graduate Research Assistant in organic chemistry with a heavy focus on polymer chemistry. PhD research focused on natural product manipulation and diisocyanate-free methods for polyurethane synthesis, utilization of MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry for polymer characterization, and some work with photo-induced electron transfer chemistry. I developed a universal sample preparation technique for polymer analysis by MALDI-TOF MS and have organized workshops and trained other researchers around the country. I was a co-author on a paper published in ACS Macro Letters for performing MALDI-TOF MS analysis on a complex polyphosphoester. Skilled in synthesis and characterization of both step-growth polymers and small molecules as well as a range of spectroscopic, thermal, and material characterization techniques. Extensive experience with molecular modeling (Gaussian09/16) and used this skill as a co-author on an organometallic article published in Chemistry-A European Journal. Proven track record of teamwork includes serving on laboratory safety committee to conduct safety reviews and briefings, delegation of duties for instruments, and organizing an international collaboration with a research group in France. Also, taught a lab for General Chemistry for Engineers as a graduate teaching assistant for two semesters while at Texas A&M. Successfully defended an undergraduate honors thesis on the tensile, thermal, water absorption, and hydrolysis of graphene oxide/polyamide-11 composites intended for use in offshore oil risers under the supervision of Dr. David Kranbuehl at the College of William and Mary (W&M). I am a co-author on this work that was published in a peer-reviewed journal. Previously, I conducted research on the synthesis and characterization of transition metal ligands using a vibrating sample magnetometer with a cryostat under Dr. Gary Defotis also at W&M. I am also listed as a co-author on several journal articles for this research as well. Previous internship experience in the analysis of chemical and biological non-state threats and U.S. national security policy. I took minor-equivalent coursework during my time at W&M as well including some training on writing policy briefs.