New Jersey Institute of Technology - College of Science and Liberal Arts

Q&A with Dr. Edgardo Farinas, Associate Professor, Chemistry and Environmental Science

rje5 — Tue, 11 Apr 2023 13:18:55 +0000

Earning a Ph.D. in chemistry and environmental science can put you on the fast-track for many career opportunities as well as boost your personal growth. A Ph.D. in chemistry can provide the education and training necessary for to substantiate your expertise and develop the skills necessary to become an independent professional.

We got the inside scoop about �鶹��˰�’s Ph.D. offerings in the Department of Chemistry and Environmental Science from Dr. Edgardo Farinas, Associate Professor.. In this Q&A, he discusses everything you should know about pursuing your Ph.D. in chemistry and environmental science!

Q: What are the current Ph.D. offerings in Chemistry and Environmental Science?

A: In the College of Science and Liberal Arts (CSLA) at �鶹��˰�, we currently offer Ph.D.s in both Chemistry and Environmental Science. We take an interdisciplinary approach to look at and discover new chemical phenomena, and create strategies for a more sustainable and healthier world. We do that through designing analytical technology, microbial and enzymatic bioremediation, chemical synthesis, nanotechnology for environmental and energy applications, understanding and solving environmental problems of the sky, land and water, and materials for sensors and diagnostics. �鶹��˰�'s Department of Chemistry and Environmental Science views scientific discovery as a benefit towards humankind — our goal is to advance the frontiers in chemistry and environmental science with the commitment to train the next generation of pioneering scientists and educators.

Q: What type of research will Ph.D. candidates be involved with?

A: In our department, we use computation to try and understand how we could store energy and how we could use that energy for conversion purposes. When studying the environment we focus on a variety of topics. For example, you may be learning about bioremediation where we use microbes and enzymes to degrade human made contaminants such as plastic since there's a huge amount of plastic in the world. You may also use nano-technology and nanotubes to make clean water and disinfect microbes and viruses. Imagine maybe coating some clothing with nanotubes and having them kill contaminants.

Another type of research you may take part in focuses around biosensors and looking at surfaces and electro-chemistry with the emphasis of developing innovative technologies to improve human health, energy and the environment. You’ll also be involved with chemistry where we try to mimic biology to design an artificial system for solar energy conversion.

The tools we have at �鶹��˰� are state of the art instruments and techniques, such as mass spectrometry, nuclear magnetic resonance, different optical lasers, and high powered microscopes — the tools offered to our Ph.D. students are cutting edge to make their research as detailed and accurate as possible.

Q: What sets �鶹��˰�’s research opportunities apart from other universities?

A: We're relatively small and because of that the professors spend a lot of time with the graduate students. In many big schools, first year Ph.D. students are often left to be supervised by a more senior graduate student. At �鶹��˰�, you spend a lot of time with the actual professor and so it's a two way learning process — we learn from the graduate students and the graduate students learn from us.

All the current faculty here are eager and constantly writing grants for funding. We have grants from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the State of New Jersey, National Science Foundation (NSF), Department of Defense, and more. So we get funding from a variety of national funding agencies. It just goes to show that research is relevant and we strive to make breakthroughs in the research we do here at �鶹��˰�.

Another aspect that is unique to �鶹��˰� is that we have some professors who have a few part-time students. These Ph.D. students are working in big pharmaceutical companies and taking part in research at the same time. The research they do here not only helps them in their current roles, but makes them more competitive to move up to higher positions. Part-time students are highly dedicated — working during the day and then they're getting their Ph.D. at night.

Q: In what ways does having a Ph.D. from �鶹��˰� help your career growth?

A: A Ph.D. in chemistry and environmental science can allow you to do many things. You aren’t limited to working in a lab — you can go into pharmaceutical science, green energy, polymers, coatings, agrochemicals, instrument manufacturers and management consultancies, and corporate positions as well. Many corporations want candidates who possess the skills of a Ph.D. in chemistry for applied research and product development positions. Having a Ph.D. also allows for greater opportunities and leadership in the industry side as well as academics. A doctoral degree is the next step before becoming a university professor — if you want to get a tenure track position, typically you’ll need a Ph.D.

Just because you have a Ph.D. in chemistry doesn't mean you have to be a traditional chemist. This doctoral degree prepares you for a variety of different occupations. For example, it's really great for patent law, to be a consultant to develop products, and also other related entrepreneurial opportunities.

When you get trained as a scientist, you're not necessarily being trained as a chemist, so to speak, but it's a way of looking at things. It gives you a different outlook on how you view both science and society. A lot of issues in science are also very closely related to societal issues, making an impact in the real world.

Pursue your Ph.D. at �鶹��˰�

Earning your Ph.D. in Chemistry or Ph.D. in Environmental Science from �鶹��˰� can propel your career and help you become a valuable member of any team. You’ll be able to use these critical problem solving skills to make strategic decisions in the computer science or information systems field. Apply now to start your Ph.D. journey.

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The contributions chemistry provides are crucial for meeting our basic needs and enriching our quality of life. In the Chemistry Ph.D. program, students will learn critical skills needed to pursue independent research investigations, collaborate on research projects or teach in an academic setting, with the goal of making a positive impact in the world.

Post Date:

Tuesday, April 11, 2023

What is Cyberpsychology and Why is it Important?

rje5 — Tue, 07 Feb 2023 15:14:20 +0000

Approximately 5 billion people across the globe have access to the Internet and spend most of their time using mobile devices, computers and other types of technology. In a world where so much of our everyday behaviors occur online (e.g., banking, shopping, working, and communication with friends and family), it’s not surprising that we’ve become increasingly concerned about how living in a technological age affects us as individuals and as a society.

More importantly, our increasing use of social media raises questions about the type of psychological impact it can have on human behavior. Does spending too much time online make people anti-social? Should children and teenagers limit the use of smartphones? Does playing violent video games lead to violence? Cyberpsychologists have examined these questions and are figuring out what practical implications they may have for society in the future.

What is cyberpsychology?

Cyberpsychology is the study of psychological processes related to, and underlying, all aspects and features of technologically interconnected human behavior. In other words, it’s the psychology of cyberspace that focuses on the intersection of technology and human behavior. This field explains how humans interact with each other in a virtual environment and the potential complications that may arise from it.

Researchers in cyberpsychology can examine questions like why people’s behaviors may differ online or why people use social media as a coping mechanism.’ However, cyberpsychology not only studies how technology changes how people communicate and interact but it's also concerned with how people and technology interact with one another. For example, cyberpsychologists may also study controversial topics like virtual reality, artificial intelligence and transhumanism.

Advances in technology will continue to change how humans interact and you should know cyberpsychology’s importance for society in the future.

What does a cyberpsychologist do?

The main task for a cyberpsychologist is to conduct research. Whether they work in the private sector, in academia or in private practice, cyber psychologists research many disciplines within their field including psychology, sociology, forensics, computer science and philosophy.

Because cyberpsychology is the study of how online and virtual technology affects human behavior and how our behavior changes online, much of cyberpsychology research has been driven by the Internet and social media. Thus, cyberpsycholgists examine phenomena like video game and Internet addiction, social media anxiety, augmented reality and personality disorders linked to social media.

Here are some questions that a cyberpsychologist might research:

What is the potential impact of online social networking on a person’s well-being?
How does playing video games impact a person’s brain development?
What are the positive and negative mental health outcomes of using social media (e.g. anxiety, depression etc.)
How does narcissism relate to selfie-related behaviors?
Can generation differences cause family communication problems?

Additionally, cyberpsychologists are also studying technology’s impact on mental therapy. In fact, virtual reality is being used to treat people with depressive symptoms and other mental disorders. Their work may involve researching e-therapy as an effective option to in-person therapy.

Why is Cyberpsychology Important?

In today’s society, most of what people do is connected to technology, which has created a shift in human behavior. Cyberpsychology has become a crucial component in studying how humans interact and behave with technology and devices. Here are some ways in which the study of cyberpsychology can impact how the public uses technology.

1) Assists in fostering human-technology interaction

Since the advent of cognitive technologies, our society has experienced an era of rapid technological advancement where we now have self-driving cars, AI computers, smart devices and virtual assistants. Consequently, technology has radically changed the way people interact with each other and we have become increasingly connected to the digital world. Thus, the overuse of technology can lead to negative psychological issues and a more significant adverse impact in children.

However, there are some benefits of using technology. For example, people use social media to conveniently meet friends and family while other technologies like phones have made complex tasks more efficient. Cyberpsychology helps researchers develop technologies to enhance human behavior rather than hinder it. Although technology has ultimately shaped how we interact with each other, cyberpsychology helps us leverage it to become more valuable in our lives.

2) Raises public awareness about cybersecurity and privacy issues

Before the origin of the Internet, cybersecurity was not a topic that was thoroughly researched—however, it is increasingly becoming a topic of concern for many researchers. Cybersecurity is the practice of using processes or technologies to protect sensitive information from digital attacks. Since most of our daily activities are done online, cybersecurity is an important issue that individuals, businesses and governments should be taking seriously.

In fact, the number and cost of cyberattacks continue to grow as cybercriminals have led cyber attacks targeting government facilities, businesses and infrastructure. Cyberpsychologists are undertaking research and utilizing what they know about people’s behavior in cyberspace to help inform the public that’ll help them avoid the dangers of using technology. Thus, researchers can raise public awareness to encourage people to become more conscious of the security of their personal information.

3) Provides advanced care for people with various health conditions

While many people may assume that virtual reality (VR) and artificial intelligence(AI) are only useful for providing a fascinating entertainment experience, this technology can have a great impact in the healthcare industry. In fact, VR has already been used in the healthcare industry by professionals to provide lifelike training to doctors, personalized mental and psychological therapy and pain management.

AI is also used in the healthcare industry to simplify the tasks that are usually done by medical professionals. For example, companies have developed machine learning technology to help pathologists make more accurate health diagnoses so they can quickly develop better medical treatment. By studying this emerging technology, cyberpsychologists have made it easier for medical professionals to treat common health conditions.

4) Makes it more convenient for doctors to provide care to their patients

While technology provides more advanced treatment for patients, it can also make it convenient for health professionals to provide access to those who need therapy. One of the most important limitations in healthcare is accessibility and affordability. Telehealth is an alternative that has emerged from research by cyberpsychologists and can be used by people who may live in areas where there aren't as many healthcare professionals nearby or they feel uncomfortable meeting face-to-face with a doctor.

Online therapy also benefits the therapists themselves as it provides flexibility to provide specialized care to their patients. Telehealth can reduce costs as patients and doctors don’t have to commute to an office and patients can easily pick the therapist they want online.

Start your Cyberpsychology journey at �鶹��˰�

Technological advancements will continue to reshape society which is a process that will require further examination. �鶹��˰� is a great place to take the first steps toward career and educational opportunities within the field. �鶹��˰�’s B.S. in Cyberpsychology program will expose you to foundational concepts and prepare you with the applied skills needed in cyberpsychology jobs. If you’re excited to learn about the intersection of psychology and technology, virtual reality, artificial intelligence, digital research or cybersecurity, then don’t hesitate and apply today!

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Are you curious to know what role technology plays in human behavior? Check out this blog to learn all about what cyberpsychology is and why it’s an important field to study in the era of technological advancement.

Post Date:

Tuesday, February 7, 2023

Q&A with Dr. Roy Goodman, Associate Professor and Associate Chair for Graduate Studies in the Department of Mathematical Sciences

rje5 — Thu, 01 Dec 2022 18:58:38 +0000

Earning a Ph.D. in the mathematical sciences field can put you on the fast-track for many career opportunities as well as boost your personal growth. A Ph.D. in mathematical sciences provides students with the vital knowledge in mathematics and statistics needed to teach at college-level, conduct strong independent research in their areas of expertise or succeed in a range of diverse careers within government and private sector environments.

We got the inside scoop about �鶹��˰�’s Ph.D. in mathematical sciences from Associate Professor and Associate Chair for Graduate Studies, Dr. Roy Goodman. In this Q&A, he discusses everything you should know about pursuing your Ph.D. in mathematical sciences!

Q: What tracks are offered in the Ph.D. in mathematical sciences program?

A: The Ph.D. offering in mathematical sciences has two tracks — one in applied mathematics and one in applied statistics. The applied math program is one of the most applied focused departments and Ph.D. programs in the country. The coursework is focused on mathematical modeling, analysis of differential equations, and numerical analysis and computation.

Almost all the faculty in the department works in some aspect of applied mathematics with strengths in fluid mechanics, mathematical biology — especially neuroscience — and various aspects of wave propagation.

Also housed in the math department is the applied statistics Ph.D. program. Our faculty work in areas such as statistical genetics, survival analysis, spatial statistics, machine learning, deep learning, multiple testing, and clinical trials.

Additionally, students may have opportunities to take courses from both tracks. Machine learning and data science are coming into more prominence, and applied math students may find these offerings within this applied statistics curriculum.

Q: What type of research will Ph.D. candidates be involved with?

A: Students will participate in the specialty of a faculty member, all of whom are working on applied problems. There's an opportunity to work on all the aspects of an applied problem in their area of concentration — modeling, analysis, and computation. They may integrate methods from the increasingly important fields of data science and machine learning into their research.

Modeling, analysis, and computation are three separate modes of working that come into different stages of an applied problem. Modeling is combining knowledge of mathematical model building with knowledge from a specific area of science to recast problems in mathematical form. Analysis is largely paper and pencil: mathematical and theoretical study, and extraction of conclusions from those equations. Mathematical scientists use numerical computation to gain understanding of problems that are too complex to study using analysis alone. This involves writing computer software to simulate equations and visualize the results in order to develop intuition and see what solutions really look like. In addition, students may work on developing new numerical methods to address such problems.

Q: What makes �鶹��˰�’s Ph.D. programs and research opportunities unique?

A: [�鶹��˰�] has a strong focus on preparing our students to work on applied problems. The course offerings within the applied mathematical Ph.D. program focus toward that goal…Very few places offer the opportunity to do [applied problems] in that capacity.

�鶹��˰�’s Center for Applied Mathematics and Statistics is also a very collegial and encouraging environment. There’s a lot of activity going on in the department and a lot of people who you can talk to for advice. Student led initiatives are also strongly encouraged. Our current Ph.D. candidates have put together a weekly seminar, brown bag journal club on machine learning on their own.

The department runs four active seminar series that bring in researchers from around the region and country. Students are encouraged to meet the visitors and ask questions. We have a lively research environment with really great connections to the applied math community — if you wanted to meet somebody, you could find someone in our department who knows them.

Q: In what ways does having a Ph.D. from �鶹��˰� help your career growth?

A: The types of quantitative and modeling problems our students work on require a very specific skill set. They need to be able to take problems from a particular domain of science and formulate them as a mathematical model. They then have to understand how to apply all the tools such as analysis, modeling, and computation to further understand these systems.

These are very particular skills that take time to develop. Ph.D. students are entering their desired field at a higher level. They're more ready to take on leadership positions with their deeper knowledge and understanding of these skills and problems.

Q: What is the benefit of earning your Ph.D. in mathematical sciences?

A: For a lot of people it's just the pleasure of finding answers. Beyond that, it’s learning to solve problems, write, and communicate the results of their research. Our students have found jobs in academia, national labs, and the finance industry, and as data scientists.

A growing number of applied mathematicians work in pharmaceutical companies, and we've placed a number of students in mathematical modeling groups at pharmaceutical companies.

Pursue your Ph.D. at �鶹��˰�

Earning your Ph.D. in mathematical sciences can propel your career and help you become a valuable member of any team. You’ll be able to use these critical problem solving skills to make strategic decisions in the mathematical sciences field. Apply now to start your Ph.D. journey.

Tagged:

Mathematical scientists play increasingly important roles as advances in research use and benefit from quantitative mathematical models. With a Ph.D. in the mathematical sciences, there’s no telling what amazing research you will be a part of.

Post Date:

Thursday, December 1, 2022

7 Emerging Careers in Social Media

rje5 — Tue, 01 Mar 2022 14:06:08 +0000

Over the past decade, society has shifted toward social media for just about everything. What started out as a way to connect with friends and family, has now become platforms for businesses and organizations to promote their services, individuals to turn into influencers, and a way for everyone to market themselves, products, or a company.

With social networking sites estimated to reach 3.78 billion users in 2021, the rise in demand for social media professionals is increasing now more than ever. Companies and organizations are finding that keeping up with social media is a full-time job by itself – not to mention one also must understand how it works to be successful.

If you’re someone who is social media savvy or wants to become a social media expert, keep reading to find out what popular jobs you may be interested in doing.

What is social media?

Simply speaking, social media refers to applications and websites that allow users to quickly share content with their audience in real-time. With these various social media platforms, users have the ability to share photos, comment on posts, and re-share content at any time of the day. This way of using technology and the internet has transformed the way people interact and even how they conduct business.

Digital platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter are versatile in that anyone can use them for their own agenda. A college student interested in video game design might create an Instagram page to post their work, while a business owner may decide to start a profile to promote their products and services. What makes social media favorable is how it allows users to reach such a large audience that was once not an option.

Along with content being able to be shared on one platform, many social media networks can be used together to cross-share. Subscribers from various platforms can interact with an organization’s profile and posts in different ways, increasing their online presence. Learning how to use social media for businesses and organizations at a university such as �鶹��˰� can be a game changer.

Social media skills

Believe it or not, just because you use social media, doesn't mean you automatically have the skills and knowledge it takes to become a social media expert. If you’re looking into social media careers, it’s important to have these skills mastered:

Communication
Ability to understand and track social media analytics and trends
Time management
Project management
Creativity
Marketing
Strong writing skills
Managing key performance indicators (KPIs)

If you’re not familiar with these skills, don’t worry. Consider pursuing a BA in Communications and Media from �鶹��˰� to put you on the social media career path.

7 Emerging careers in social media

Mastering the social media skills listed above gives you versatility to work in different areas and roles. When applying them to a professional setting, you’ll not only be enhancing your current skills, but also learning new ones to advance your career – and don’t forget, you can even increase your social media career salary with these skills. Whether you’re just starting out, or are looking for a new role, these are some of the most popular social media careers:

1) Director of social media

Social media directors are responsible for overseeing all aspects of digital networking tools such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn, as well as any blogs created for the organization. These directors may also lead a team of social media managers and coordinators to help create and promote the brand of an organization or business.

Directors of social media must be able to think critically and creatively, interact with clients, and collaborate with marketing professionals.

Average Median Base Salary: $76,008

Average High Base Salary: $132,000

2) Content marketing

When it comes to creating content, three words should immediately come to mind; consistent, valuable, and relevant. These three attributes are what make or break content when it comes to attracting an audience with the purpose of increasing profits. Content marketing is a technique that creates and distributes content for a specific audience with the intention of driving consumer action.

Those in the role of content marketer work with the organization to create marketing campaign goals, understand their mission, and identify a target audience. Once this is achieved, it is their job to create valuable content that is interesting, memorable, and interactive to boost brand awareness and ultimately grow their sales or leads.

Average Base Salary: $51,630

Average High Base Salary: $79,000

3) Social media manager

Social media professionals in this role are tasked with organizing an organization’s brand across various social platforms. Social media managers ensure that the brand is being properly represented across different channels by interacting with their audience through comments, setting content guidelines, and developing relevant topics to increase brand awareness.

Managers also supervise coordinators and take the lead in strategizing and executing digital marketing campaigns, then gathering the data and analyzing it to see what changes need to be made. Individuals in this position should constantly strive to improve their organization’s social media presence in creative and unique ways.

Average Base Salary: $52,125

Average High Base Salary: $80,000

4) Social media coordinator

The social media coordinator typically works directly under the social media manager to help boost brand awareness across multiple digital platforms. These individuals help develop the social media campaigns for their organization itself or new product offerings. Social media coordinators might also be in contact with influencers and update social media profiles on behalf of their organization.

To be successful in this role, coordinators must have well-rounded knowledge of Search Engine Optimization (SEO) tactics to maintain and enhance consumer engagement. Creativity is also crucial as a coordinator may be asked to contribute to the design and execution of infographics, logos, and digital posters.

Average Base Salary: $40,671

Average High Base Salary: $54,000

5) Creative designer

If you’re more interested in the artistic side of social media, becoming a creative designer may be a smart career move. Creative designers work closely with the social media team to bring their idea concepts to life. Professionals in this role have the opportunity to create digital layouts for social media marketing campaigns using digital illustration software.

As a social media professional in this role, you’ll have the ability to design, create, and execute images, infographics, and advertisements with social media in mind. Pairing graphic design skills with social media skills prepares you to think of ways to attract consumers through digital content that will appeal to your target audience.

Average Base Salary: $47,031

Average High Base Salary: $83,000

6) Market research analyst

Just because you’re working in social media, doesn’t mean you have to be creating content and designing marketing campaigns. As a market research analyst you’ll be responsible for gathering market intelligence and presenting it to your organization. While conducting your research, results should be compiled into dense reports and detailed spreadsheets so all insights are organized and easy to access.

The insights that are gathered by a market research analyst will help the organization decide what products or services they should gear their digital marketing campaigns toward, as well as which demographics the social media team should focus on. This analysis can also shed light on the needs, preferences, and trends occurring, so the organization’s social media knows what to promote.

Average Base Salary: $63,790

Average High Base Salary: $89,580

7) Brand manager

Those in the role of brand manager are responsible for maintaining the overall image of the organization, company, or person they’re working for. Brand managers working within social media marketing must research the market place, manage budgets, develop marketing and advertising strategies, create designs and layouts for digital advertisements and media, and evaluate how the brand is seen through the public’s eyes.

Individuals in this role will not only be on the strategic marketing side of social media, but may also work to build relationships with social influencers and other media sites, monitor social media trends to remain current and up to date, and pitch ideas for digital ad campaigns.

Average Base Salary: $71,424

Average High Base Salary: $117,000

Become a leader in social media with �鶹��˰�

Social media is continuing to change and grow – there are always more things to learn and new skills to achieve. Whether you’re interested in social media careers or already in the industry and looking to keep your skills competitive, pursuing a degree in communications and media can help you achieve your goals.

When you earn your BA degree from �鶹��˰� in communications and media, you’ll be learning how to use social media as a communication tool in the business, government, education, and non-profit sectors. Students in the program will acquire a deep understanding of information technologies that provide them with new problem-solving skills.

Turn your love of social media into a professional career and apply to �鶹��˰�’s BA in communication and media program – you’ll give yourself a competitive advantage and see a whole new side of social media.

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From Facebook and Instagram, to TikTok and Twitter, social media has completely changed the way businesses interact with their consumers. Learn about the exciting roles you can dive into when you choose a career in social media.

Post Date:

Tuesday, March 1, 2022

New Jersey Institute of Technology - College of Science and Liberal Arts

Q&A with Dr. Edgardo Farinas, Associate Professor, Chemistry and Environmental Science

Pursue your Ph.D. at �鶹���˰�

Tagged:

What is Cyberpsychology and Why is it Important?

What is cyberpsychology?

What does a cyberpsychologist do?

Why is Cyberpsychology Important?

1) Assists in fostering human-technology interaction

2) Raises public awareness about cybersecurity and privacy issues

3) Provides advanced care for people with various health conditions

4) Makes it more convenient for doctors to provide care to their patients

Start your Cyberpsychology journey at �鶹���˰�

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Q&A with Dr. Roy Goodman, Associate Professor and Associate Chair for Graduate Studies in the Department of Mathematical Sciences

Pursue your Ph.D. at �鶹���˰�

Tagged:

7 Emerging Careers in Social Media

What is social media?

Social media skills

7 Emerging careers in social media

1) Director of social media

2) Content marketing

3) Social media manager

4) Social media coordinator

5) Creative designer

6) Market research analyst

7) Brand manager

Become a leader in social media with �鶹���˰�

Tagged:

Pursue your Ph.D. at �鶹��˰�

Start your Cyberpsychology journey at �鶹��˰�

Pursue your Ph.D. at �鶹��˰�

Become a leader in social media with �鶹��˰�