Dr. Ahmed Lakhani is an Associate Professor of Science at Calumet College of St. Joseph in Whiting, Indiana. He earned a B.S. in Biochemistry from the University of Illinois at Urbana–Champaign in 2003 and a Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of Illinois at Chicago in 2011. With a primary emphasis on chemistry, Dr. Lakhani delivers various STEM courses at CCSJ.

Beyond his teaching roles, Dr. Lakhani serves as the Department Chair of Biomedical and Health Science and the Program Director for the STEM disciplines, encompassing Biomedical Science, Medical Laboratory Science, Life Science, Forensic Science, Public Health, and Neuroscience.

Besides teaching and administrative duties, Dr. Lakhani’s research spans from pedagogical studies focused on classroom methods to more traditional scientific fields. In education, he supports inquiry-based learning, ranging from foundational chemistry courses to advanced subjects such as Physical and Organic Chemistry. In general chemistry, he has developed an inquiry-based approach that delves into the properties of molecules, from basic to complicated. This method encompasses dipole moments, enthalpy energy, and bond lengths. In more advanced courses, he has incorporated projects that probe intermolecular forces, including non-covalent interactions such as hydrogen bonding, van der Waals forces, and electrostatic interactions.

In traditional research, Dr. Lakhani uses a combination of theoretical techniques to interpret molecular behaviors. He employs Density Functional Theory (DFT) for analyzing different molecules, a process that entails a profound investigation in quantum mechanics, utilizing advanced tools like Non-Covalent Interaction (NCI) Analysis and Quantum Theory of Atoms in Molecules (QTAIM) Analysis.

Teaching Philosophy:

Teaching is a rewarding journey of facilitating student growth. While students drive their learning, I view my role as a catalyst, guiding them toward deeper understanding rather than merely presenting information.

In our ever-evolving world, it’s paramount that students acquire lifelong learning skills. I’m dedicated to nurturing critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication capabilities. My classroom is a haven for active learning, promoting inquiry, dialogue, and collaboration. I emphasize the importance of questioning, challenging norms, and meaningful engagement.

Given the diversity in student backgrounds and abilities, I employ various teaching strategies, from group work to online tools, ensuring an inclusive and stimulating learning environment. I prioritize feedback, offering students constructive insights to enhance their learning journey. My goal is to cultivate an enduring passion for science, preparing them for the evolving challenges of the 21st century.