Dr. Ashley Smith-Diemler

Education 

• B.A. in Chemistry, Washington & Jefferson College
• Ph.D. in Inorganic/Materials Chemistry, University of Pittsburgh
• Postdoctoral Research Associate in Environ. Engineering, University of Pittsburgh

Biography

Dr. Smith-Diemler received her B.A. in Chemistry from Washington & Jefferson College and her Ph.D. in Inorganic/Materials Chemistry from the University of Pittsburgh, where she developed a novel method for ligand quantification on gold nanoparticles. She has worked at Saint Francis University since 2020, teaching General, Analytical, and Forensic Chemistry courses. Her research focuses on greener alternatives for nanoparticle and quantum dot synthesis by using fruits and vegetables in place of traditional harmful reducing agents. Dr. Smith-Diemler is the advisor for the Chemistry Club and faculty director of the Rural Outreach Chemistry for Kids (R.O.C.K.) program, which focuses on bringing hands-on science activities to local K-12 students.

Courses Taught

• General Chemistry I and II Lecture and Lab, CHEM 121/L and CHEM 122/L
• Human Chemistry II Lab, CHEM 114L
• Quantitative Analysis Lecture and Lab, CHEM 251/L
• Forensic Chemistry Lecture and Lab, CHEM 308/L
• Chemistry major seminars
• From Ordinary to Enchanted, CORE I