February 01, 2018

A self-proclaimed "scientific vagabond," Jeremiah Scepaniak, PhD, assistant professor of chemistry, joined Drexel after completing postdoctoral research in Germany, and hopes to build scientific literacy in his students.

Hometown: Nowhere’sville, Minnesota
Degree: PhD from New Mexico State University
Research interests: Design transition metal-based contrast agents for MRI & synthesis of bimetallic complexes to activate small molecules.

What did you do before coming to Drexel?
I was a scientific vagabond. My most recent position was in Gottingen, Germany.

What is your favorite book? Movie?
“East of Eden” by John Steinbeck and “Sometimes a Great Notion” by Ken Kesey

What is your favorite food or restaurant?
Sushi, Thai, and falafel cart

When is the last time you did something “for the first time”? What was it?
A few months ago, when I began “breaking ground” on my own research laboratory (horray!!!)

What/who inspires you?
The mountainous west

If you could have any super power, what would it be? 
To go into the supermarket and buy what I need with my good looks.

What was the most impactful moment of your own college career? 
When I realized my PhD adviser gave me the responsibilities he did because he had faith in me.

Which current event/issue do you think students should know more about and why?
Generally, scientific literacy would be great to see in all students. Also: political involvement on the local level and voting in local elections, not just during the presidential cycle.

What made you want to become a professor?
My grandmother

What do you hope to add to the CoAS community?
A strong research program in inorganic chemistry and loads of grant money