About Me
Kevin R. Tucker, Ph.D.: A Journey Through Chemistry and Education
Dr. Kevin R. Tucker's journey in chemistry began with a Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry, Summa Cum Laude, from Rollins College, Florida, in 2005. His undergraduate research, guided by Prof. Pedro Bernal and Prof. D. Larry Eng-Wilmot, delved into the volumetric properties of cyclic ethers at various temperatures. This early interest in analytical chemistry and chemical education shaped the trajectory of his career.
In 2011, Dr. Tucker earned his Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. His doctoral research, under the mentorship of Prof. Jonathan V. Sweedler, focused on mass spectrometry imaging for probing molecular distributions in the nervous system. This work not only highlighted his proficiency in analytical techniques but also his inclination towards applying chemistry in understanding complex biological systems.
Dr. Tucker’s professional path led him to Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, where he has been a cornerstone of the Department of Chemistry. He began as an Assistant Professor in 2016 and was promoted to Associate Professor in 2022. His teaching portfolio is extensive, covering a wide spectrum of chemistry courses, from general chemistry to specialized topics in analytical chemistry. His dedication to teaching is evident in his Online Instruction Faculty Certification from Parkland College and his numerous nominations for the Vaughn Vandegrift URCA Research Mentor of the Semester.
His research interests are diverse yet focused, ranging from environmental analysis of pharmaceuticals and personal care products in local waterways to toxicological studies and mass spectrometry applications in environmental, biological, and chemical contexts. His work on mass spectrometry imaging, particularly using MALDI in environmental analytical applications, stands out as a significant contribution to the field.
Dr. Tucker’s commitment extends beyond academia to impactful service roles. He has chaired several committees at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, including the Probst and Johnson Committees, and has played a pivotal role in various academic and operational committees. His contributions to professional societies are equally noteworthy, with active roles in the American Society for Mass Spectrometry, editorial duties for scientific journals, and leadership in organizing symposiums and workshops.
His achievements in research and education have been recognized with awards like the Distinguished Servant Leadership Award from the Cahokia Mounds District, BSA GSLAC, and the Cosmos Award from the BSA Greater St. Louis Area Council. Moreover, Dr. Tucker's involvement with the Boy Scouts of America and the Illinois YMCA Youth and Government program reflects his commitment to community service and youth education.
Dr. Tucker’s publication record, encompassing numerous articles and presentations, underscores his active engagement in advancing scientific knowledge. His work not only contributes to the field of analytical chemistry but also demonstrates a commitment to mentoring the next generation of scientists, as evidenced by the long list of students he has guided towards their academic and research goals.
In conclusion, Dr. Kevin R. Tucker's career is a testament to his passion for chemistry and education. His contributions as a researcher, educator, and mentor have significantly impacted his field and the broader community, embodying the spirit of scientific inquiry and dedication to learning.
Professional Experience
Associate Professor, Department of Chemistry, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, 2022-Current
Assistant Professor, Department of Chemistry, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, 2016-2022
Mass Spectrometrist, School of Chemical Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2011-2016
Chemistry Instructor, Department of Natural Sciences, Parkland College, 2011-2016
Adjunct Analytical Chemistry Lecturer, Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2007, 2014-2015
Education
Ph.D. in Chemistry, research emphasis in analytical chemistry and specialization in chemical education
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 2011
Mass Spectrometry Imaging for Probing Molecular Distributions in the Nervous System
Advisor: Prof. Jonathan V. Sweedler
B.A. in Chemistry (ACS), Summa Cum Laude
Rollins College, Winter Park, FL, 2005
Volumetric Properties of Cyclic Ethers at Various Temperatures
Research Advisor: Prof. Pedro Bernal; Academic Advisor: Prof. D. Larry Eng-Wilmot
Teaching Experience
General Chemistry
Engineering Chemistry Lab
Quantitative Chemical Analysis Lecture and Lab
Instrumental Analysis Lecture and Lab
Special Topics in Analytical Chemistry: Mass Spectrometry
Senior Assignment
Advanced Analytical Chemistry
Research (Sophomore, Junior, Senior and Graduate levels)
Thesis
Awards, Honors and Certifications
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
Vaughn Vandegrift URCA Research Mentor of the Semester, Spring 2017 (Nominated, Fall 2017, Spring 2018, Fall 2018, Spring 2019)
BSA Greater St. Louis Area Council
Cosmos Award (2021)
Parkland College
Online Faculty Certification, Parkland College, 2014
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Chemical Education Specialization, 2011
Baxter Innovation Award, Baxter International, 2009
Teacher Scholar Certificate, 2008
Graduate Teacher Certificate, 2008
Roger Adams Graduate Fellowship , 2005
Rollins College
American Institute of Chemists Award, 2005
Thomas Baker Memorial Award in Chemistry, 2004
ACS Division of Analytical Chemistry Undergraduate Award, 2004
ACS Polymer Education Committee Award in Organic Chemistry, 2003
Chemical Rubber Company First-Year Achievement Award, 2002