Marc Harper, Ph.D.

Graduate Researcher at Purdue University (2020-08 – 2025-11)

• Designed and executed multi-step organic synthetic routes in the formulation of novel small molecules, including the elucidation of unknown structures utilizing analytical characterization. (NMR, FTIR, LC-MS, HPLC, XRD)
• Developed and optimized synthetic protocols to successfully scale up reactions to 50 g, evaluating reaction parameters to ensure reproducibility, efficiency, and product purity.
• Proficiency in acquiring and solving X-ray crystal structures of various organic and inorganic compounds.
• Maintained comprehensive research documentation including lab notebooks, technical reports and experimental data analysis supporting reproducibility.
• Acquired excellent written and verbal communication skills to convey technical information to those of varying disciplines.

Graduate Researcher at Youngstown State University (2018-08 – 2020-07)

• Designed and synthesized heterocyclic phosphorus mustard derivatives as novel anti-cancer agents.
• Prepared quality samples for submission to anti-cancer testing facilities.
• Ordered, cataloged, and maintained over 1000 sensitive reagents.
• Developed proficiency in flash column chromatography and analytical characterization such as NMR, X-ray crystallography, FTIR, UV-Vis & Raman Spec.

Undergraduate Research Assistant at Youngstown State University (2017-05 – 2017-08)

• Synthesized several biologically active heterocyclic phosphorus mustard derivatives submitted for testing.
• Conducted method development for the scale-up synthesis of di-(2-chloroethyl)-phosphoramidic dichloride up to 30 g.

Laboratory Safety Representative at Purdue University & Youngstown State University (2018-08 – 2025-11)

• Served as a laboratory safety liaison, ensuring compliance with institutional and OSHA/EHS regulations.
• Developed and implemented standard operating procedures (SOPs) for chemical handling, instrumentation, chemical reaction apparatus, and hazardous waste management.
• Conducted safety training and maintained regulatory documentation in preparation for annual OHSA/EHS inspections & promoting safety awareness.

Lecture Teaching Assistant at Purdue University (2022-08 – 2025-11)

• Supported instruction of graduate and undergraduate students by assisting with lecture delivery & facilitating discussion of organic chemistry principles & reaction mechanisms.
• Mentored students during weekly office hours, providing guidance on problem-solving skills through mechanistic or data analysis.
• Communicated & reinforced complex chemistry concepts to students of diverse backgrounds.

Laboratory Teaching Assistant at Purdue University (2020-08 – 2022-05)

• Instructed multiple undergraduate lab sections in organic chemistry experiments, emphasizing lab safety, experimental technique, reproducible results & the importance of proper data documentation.
• Communicated experimental methodologies and analysis strategies to strengthen students' understanding of experimental results.
• Individualized mentorship during office hours to interpret results.

Organic Chemistry Lab Manager at Youngstown State University (2019-05 – 2020-05)

• Managed preparation, inventory, and distribution of sensitive and hazardous chemicals for undergraduate organic laboratory courses.
• Maintained a chemical stock and organization of over 5,000 chemicals and ensured regulatory compliance with laboratory safety standards.
• Strengthened laboratory operations through inventory organization, documentation, and quality assurance practices.

Laboratory Teaching Assistant at Youngstown State University (2018-08 – 2020-05)

• Instructed lab sections in general chemistry experimental techniques. (titration, solution preparation, & fundamental analytical measurements)
• Communicated procedures & principals clearly to varying disciplines.
• Evaluated lab reports & notebooks, providing feedback to strengthen error evaluation, scientific reporting, & data analysis.

PhD in Organic Chemistry – Purdue University (2025)

MS in Organic Chemistry – Youngstown State University (2020)

BS in Chemistry – Youngstown State University (2018)