Dr. Valerie Goss is an Associate Professor of Chemistry at Chicago State University in the Department of Chemistry, Physics, & Engineering Studies and a CSU chemistry alumna.  Dr. Goss earned her Ph.D. in Chemistry and an M.S. in Geological Sciences from the University of Notre Dame. She also earned a M.S. in Biochemistry from Loyola University in Maywood, IL.  

 

Dr. Goss is a leader in establishing the Quantum Leap Challenge Institute for Quantum Sensing for Biophysics and Bioengineering (QuBBE), a hub for quantum research and industry collaboration. The Institute was awarded $25 million from the National Science Foundation. Dr. Goss has an impressive track record of securing grants and is an expert in DNA nanotechnology, Atomic Force Microscopy, and the molecular development of material surfaces. Her research group is interested in research projects related to 1) increasing storage capacity in molecular electronics, 2) minimizing high temperature destabilizing effects in energy systems, and to 3) maintaining bioactivity of bound molecules in biosensors.  DNA origami nano technology, scanning microscopy (SEM and AFM), and electrochemistry are important techniques in her research.  

 

Dr. Goss continually improves her science laboratory teaching skills by attending nationally recognized annual development opportunities for POGIL (Process Oriented Guided Inquiry Learning) training, which specializes in advanced chemical laboratory teaching.  Dr. Goss received an online teaching certificate from the Gardner Institute and was supported by the Thurgood Marshall Foundation, to improve student success and engagement in online learning.  In her own research, Dr. Goss has national and international partners. Work on her projects were performed in Eldoret, Kenya in Africa, where she traveled with CSU students. Dr. Goss’ research students have presented numerous posters throughout the United States, Africa, and Saudi Arabia. 

Dr. Goss’ students are consistent leaders and award winners in communicating their scientific efforts, and they are successful in careers in medicine, pharmacy, teaching, research, industry, and governmental fields and agencies.  Dr. Goss is a valued peer in the scientific community, and she has received awards from NOBCChE (The National Organization for the Professional Advancement of Chemists and Chemical Engineers) and from the ACS (The American Chemical Society) for dedicated and supportive mentoring of STEM students and teachers at K-12, undergraduate, and graduate levels.