C&CB champions science with Magic with Molecules

Science champion Anthony Chibba

Assistant Professor - Department of Chemistry & Chemical Biology

Anthony is a long-term volunteer with Magic with Molecules. It's a made-at-McMaster show that introduces audiences of all ages to the magic of chemistry. Magic with Molecules is the flagship community outreach event for the Department of Chemistry & Chemical Biology. Volunteers like Anthony combine education with entertainment to build science literacy and inspire our next generation of scientists.

“Science is fundamental to everyday life and the world we live in. Building science literacy helps deepen our shared understanding and appreciation of the world around us.”

Science champion Heather Zelisko

Undergraduate Lab Technician - Department of Chemistry & Chemical Biology

Heather is a long-term volunteer with the made-at-McMaster show that introduces audiences of all ages to the magic of chemistry. Magic with Molecules is the flagship community outreach initiative of the Department of Chemistry & Chemical Biology. Volunteers like Heather combine education with entertainment to build science literacy and inspire the next generation of scientists.

“In this age of online videos, I think it's really important for kids to see science happen in person and have their questions answered by real scientists and not simply just talking heads on a screen. By doing outreach programs, we're engaging with youth, making science fun and exciting, and hopefully lighting a spark in our next generation of scientists.”

Science champion Linda Davis

Instructional Assistant - Department of Chemistry & Chemical Biology

Linda is a long-term volunteer with the made-at-McMaster show that introduces audiences of all ages to the magic of chemistry. Magic with Molecules is the flagship community outreach initiative of the Department of Chemistry & Chemical Biology. Volunteers like Linda, who also films and edits videos of chemistry experiments for high school and elementary school students, combine education and entertainment to inspire the next generation of scientists.

“I get to see and do really neat chemistry experiments every day. I can't imagine not sharing these experiments as widely as possible with anyone and everyone who's interested.”

Science champion Sharonna Greenberg

Assistant Professor - Department of Chemistry & Chemical Biology

Sharonna is a long-term volunteer with the made-at-McMaster show that introduces audiences of all ages to the magic of chemistry. Magic with Molecules is the flagship community outreach initiative of the Department of Chemistry & Chemical Biology. Volunteers like Sharonna combine education with entertainment to build science literacy and inspire the next generation of scientists.

“Science communication and outreach are important because we can empower the next generation of scientists to address global challenges and communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders.”

Rodrigo Alejandro Vargas-Hernandez
Assistant Professor
Department of Chemistry & Chemical Biology

Rodrigo joined the Faculty of Science in September.  Rodrigo earned his PhD in Theoretical Chemistry at the University of British Columbia and his Honours BSc in Chemistry and Theoretical Chemistry from the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México. Prior to joining McMaster, Rodrigo was a postdoctoral researcher at the Unviersity of Toronto and an Affiliate Postdoctoral Researchers at the Vector Institute.

What's the focus of your research?

My research is focused on the application and development of machine learning algorithms to advance materials simulations.

Who inspired you to become a scientist?

My parents who've supported me through my research career.

If you weren't an assistant professor, what would you be doing for a career?

Knowledge and freedom are the primarily motivators for my job. If I wasn't an assistant prof., I will likely be part of a research group in the industry.

What do you enjoy doing away from work?

In my spare time I usually practice bike & cafe - choose a coffee shop or a bakery and then cycle there.'

Your hometown?

I was born in Mexico City.

Welcome Rodrigo at vargashr@mcmaster.ca.