Jeffrey Turk

Jeffrey Turk is an associate professor of chemistry and a member of the pre-health professions committee, with a focus on pre-medicine. His career at Alma began in 2006.

He holds research with undergraduates dear to his heart because he truly believes it is the best way to develop the critical thinking and problem-solving skills needed to succeed as students leave Alma College. The primary thrust of research conducted in his group is centered around one key question: “Can we create molecules that have the appropriate structure to exhibit the function we want?” This question is currently being explored through projects involving the design, synthesis, and evaluation of novel enzyme inhibitors.

Outside of Alma College, he and his wife live in Alma with their two children, dog, and two cats. In his spare time, he loves brewing beer, boating, camping, cooking, and most things that require him to be active outdoors. For 10 years, he and his wife were the sole owners and operators of Entertainment Solutions of Michigan – a (primarily) wedding DJ service. They retired the business in 2020. Although they specialized in weddings, they have done their fair share of high school proms, school dances, and college parties (yes, even at Alma College – the rumors are true!).

Come see what cool chemistry he is doing on Instagram at @Dr.T.Chemistry.

Educational Background:

• Post-doctorate, Purdue University (2004)
• Ph.D., University of Cincinnati (2002)
• M.S., University of Cincinnati (2001)
• B.S., Cleveland State University (1997)