Dr Ron Haines | UNSW Research

My Expertise

Chemical reaction kinetics, computer applications in chemistry, chemical education.

Keywords

Fields of Research (FoR)

Catalysis and Mechanisms of Reactions, Chemical Sciences not elsewhere classified

SEO tags

Expanding Knowledge in the Chemical Sciences

Biography

I obtained B. Sc. and Ph. D. degrees from UNSW and completed postdoctoral work with Prof. Brian Orr on time resolved laser spectroscopy. I was appointed as a tutor in chemistry and established one of the first courses in Australia on computer applications in chemistry at a time when computers were finding their way into chemistry laboratories. In the years since then my interests have broadened to include chemical education and the role of technology in education. My background in physical chemistry has allowed me to co-supervise several Ph. D. students in the area of reaction kinetics and ionic liquids. I am currently the Deputy First Year Laboratory Coordinator.

In addition to my academic publications I was also a contributing author and chemistry consultant for "Scientifica - The comprehensive guide to the world of science" (Millennium House, Sydney, 2008, ISBN: 978-1-921209-22-2).

My Qualifications

B. Sc. in Pure and Applied Chemistry (Hons 1, University Medal, UNSW, 1978)
Ph. D. in Physical Chemistry (UNSW, 1982)

My Awards

Vice-Chancellor's award for Teaching Excellence 2011.
Vice-Chancellor's team award for Teaching Excellence 2016.

My Research Activities

My Research Goals

Predict the effect of ionic liquids on reaction rates and products
Improve the learning experience in first year chemistry laboratories

My Research in Detail

1. I collaborate with Assoc. Prof. Jason Harper on projects aimed at understanding the processes in chemical reactions at the molecular level, in particular the effect of carrying out reactions in ionic liquids. Ionic liquids are potential replacements for conventional solvents in the chemical industry, which would reduce pollution and costs.

2. I am interested in using technology to improve the student learning experience in Chemistry laboratory classes, for example by providing content on iPads in the laboratory which supplements the traditional emphasis on laboratory skills.

My Engagement

Advising prospective students at Open Day, Advising Day, and Courses and Careers Day.

My Teaching

I have taught in most areas of first year chemistry (atomic and molecular structure, intermolecular forces, chemical equilibria, thermodynamics, kinetics) and higher year physical chemistry (thermodynamics, kinetics, electrochemistry, surfaces, symmetry, quantum mechanics and spectroscopy).