Christopher Komatsu

About Christopher Komatsu

Research professional with a PhD in Organic Chemistry from Texas A&M University under the guidance of Dr. Karen L. Wooley (August 7th, 2020). Former Graduate Research Assistant in organic chemistry with a heavy focus on polymer chemistry. PhD research focused on natural product manipulation and diisocyanate-free methods for polyurethane synthesis, utilization of MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry for polymer characterization, and some work with photo-induced electron transfer chemistry. I developed a universal sample preparation technique for polymer analysis by MALDI-TOF MS and have organized workshops and trained other researchers around the country. I was a co-author on a paper published in ACS Macro Letters for performing MALDI-TOF MS analysis on a complex polyphosphoester. Skilled in synthesis and characterization of both step-growth polymers and small molecules as well as a range of spectroscopic, thermal, and material characterization techniques. Extensive experience with molecular modeling (Gaussian09/16) and used this skill as a co-author on an organometallic article published in Chemistry-A European Journal. Proven track record of teamwork includes serving on laboratory safety committee to conduct safety reviews and briefings, delegation of duties for instruments, and organizing an international collaboration with a research group in France. Also, taught a lab for General Chemistry for Engineers as a graduate teaching assistant for two semesters while at Texas A&M.Successfully defended an undergraduate honors thesis on the tensile, thermal, water absorption, and hydrolysis of graphene oxide/polyamide-11 composites intended for use in offshore oil risers under the supervision of Dr. David Kranbuehl at the College of William and Mary (W&M). I am a co-author on this work that was published in a peer-reviewed journal. Previously, I conducted research on the synthesis and characterization of transition metal ligands using a vibrating sample magnetometer with a cryostat under Dr. Gary Defotis also at W&M. I am also listed as a co-author on several journal articles for this research as well.Previous internship experience in the analysis of chemical and biological non-state threats and U.S. national security policy. I took minor-equivalent coursework during my time at W&M as well including some training on writing policy briefs.

Experience

1. Analytical Chemist

   Mdx Bioanalytical Laboratory, Inc

   Jun 2021 — Present · College Station, TX, US

   Performing research and analysis of disease biomarkers using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) Performing validation assays for quality control and quality assurance according to U.S. Pharmacopeia and European Pharmacopeia standards and in compliance with current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) for multiple clients o Performing various assays on starting materials (WFI water, etc.) for pharmaceutical clients on reagents, starting materials, etc. for use in a COVID-19 vaccine

Education

• All Saints'​ Episcopal School

  Classics Diploma

  1997 — 2010

• Texas A&M University

  Doctor of Philosophy - PhD, Organic Chemistry

  2014 — 2020

• William & Mary

  Bachelor's Degree, Chemistry

  2010 — 2014

Skills

• Community Outreach
• Organic Chemistry
• Strategic Planning
• Facebook
• Teamwork
• Research
• Data Analysis
• Microsoft Office
• Event Planning
• Microsoft Word