Chemistry, Biology & Health Sciences

Student Using Microscope

At South Dakota Mines, the Department of Chemistry, Biology, & Health Sciences provides students with a strong foundation in the chemical and biological sciences while addressing critical challenges in health, sustainability, and the environment. Through rigorous coursework, extensive laboratory experiences, and hands-on research opportunities, students develop a deep understanding of the natural world and the skills needed for success in a wide range of careers and graduate programs.

Chemistry majors may pursue concentrations in biochemistry or green chemistry, integrating core chemical principles with biological systems and sustainable technologies. These concentrations prepare students for careers in industry, research, environmental science, and healthcare, as well as advanced study.

Biology majors explore areas such as molecular biology and environmental biological sciences, gaining experience with modern biological and biotechnological approaches to addressing health and environmental challenges. Students are encouraged to participate in undergraduate research and experiential learning throughout their program.

The pre-professional health sciences program at Mines offers a flexible pathway to advanced degrees in healthcare, including medicine, dentistry, physical therapy, and optometry. Built on a strong foundation in biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics, the curriculum — enhanced by interdisciplinary electives — prepares students with both the scientific knowledge and professional skills needed to excel in health-related fields.

 

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Meet Our Faculty

Department Overview

 

Presentations in the department's seminar series are typically held on Tuesdays at 4 p.m. during the fall and spring semesters. Individuals from other departments or interested parties from the general public are welcome to attend. Details are sent via email to the campus community.

We encourage the students in our department to be active in campus organizations and activities, such as:

ACS logo

American Chemical Society Student Chapter

The American Chemical Society (ACS) is one of the largest professional organizations in the world. ACS is a non-profit founded by Congress in 1876 with the mission to advance scientific knowledge, empower global community, and champion scientific integrity. There are more than 200 local sections and international chapters. More information about the national society may be found at ACS.org.
 
At South Dakota Mines, our ACS Student Chapter serves as a professional organization for students studying chemistry and adjacent majors. The organization hosts professional development opportunities, outreach events for K-12 students and the community, and fundraisers to help sponsor members attending the biannual national ACS conference.
 
 
 

Future Health Science Professionals

Future Health Science Professionals (FHSP) is a pre-health club that aids students with resources for their future medical careers. FHSP organizes events featuring local health professionals, provides opportunities for social gatherings to connect with fellow members and learn new skills, and engages in various volunteer activities.

Contact: fhsp@mines.sdsmt.edu

 

Grubby's Garden Club

The goal of Grubby's Garden Club is to maintain and expand the community garden on the South Dakota Mines campus and get students more involved in gardening, plant care, hiking, and other outdoor activities. The club also hosts discussions on topics of interest to help students learn and grow.

Contact: grubbys.garden@mines.sdsmt.edu

South Dakota Mines is home to the Beta Phi Chapter of Alpha Chi Sigma, the nation's oldest professional chemical fraternity.

Membership is open to students from a variety of academic disciplines, including metallurgical engineering, geology, geological engineering, chemistry, chemical engineering, mining engineering and management, environmental engineering, pre-health, and atmospheric sciences.

For more information, email AlphaChiSigma@mines.sdsmt.edu.

Research Labs & Centers

Work with our renowned faculty and collaborate on groundbreaking projects that address real-world challenges. The hands-on experience and expertise you will acquire at South Dakota Mines will not only contribute to your academic growth but also prepare you for successful careers in academia, industry, or government agencies.
Chemistry
Faculty in Mines' chemistry program engage in research spanning organic, analytical, inorganic, physical, and materials chemistry, with strong connections to biological and environmental applications. Their work includes developing new polymers and sustainable materials, advancing chemical and biological sensor technologies, exploring electrochemical energy storage, and studying nanochemistry for next-generation materials. Researchers in biochemistry investigate molecular and cellular processes that bridge chemistry and the life sciences, contributing to innovations in health, medicine, and biotechnology.
Biology
Faculty in Mines' biology program conduct research that spans microorganisms to ecosystems, addressing challenges in health, sustainability, and the environment. Their work includes studying microbial quorum sensing and biofilm formation, exploring extremophilic bioprocessing and biotechnological innovations, and investigating biosynthetic enzymes and natural products for pharmaceutical and industrial applications. Additional areas of expertise include environmental planning and management, aquatic ecology, and public health research focused on epidemiology and infectious disease prevention.

Contact Us

General Information:

Amber Seidel
Program Assistant I
CBEC 2205,  (605) 394-1233
 Amber.Seidel@sdsmt.edu

Zhengtao Zhu
Department Head/Professor
CBEC 2206, (605) 394-2447
CBHS@sdsmt.edu

Chemistry Undergraduate Information:
Zhengtao Zhu
Department Head/Professor
CBEC 2206, (605) 394-2447
CBHS@sdsmt.edu
Biology / Pre-Professional Health Sciences Information: 
Elizabeth Racz-Brunner
Biology Program Coordinator
CBEC 3316, (605) 394-2260
CBHS@sdsmt.edu
Chemical and Biological Sciences MS/PhD Information:

Rajesh K. Sani 
Graduate Program Coordinator
CBEC 2211, (605) 394-1240
Rajesh.Sani@sdsmt.edu

Have more questions?

Department Head:
Dr. Zhengtao Zhu
(605) 394-2447
Zhengtao.Zhu@sdsmt.edu