Travis Owen

Hi everyone! My name is Travis Owen and I am a Missouri native who obtained my Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Missouri State University and my Doctor of Philosophy in Synthetic Inorganic Chemistry from the University of Iowa.

My career has spanned 12 years as a professor at Cornell College and Missouri Valley College - two small, private liberal arts institutions - and The University of Iowa. My passion for preparing students to succeed after their collegiate experience has driven me to develop novel teaching strategies to engage my students in learning not just about chemistry, but lessons for life as well.

My research has ranged from spin-crossover ferrous cyanooxime complexes, biological nitric oxide transport, agricultural impacts on water quality and novel solar cell dye molecules. As my career progresses, I have developed a passion for environmental chemistry research, especially in renewable solar energy and in human impacts on regional ecosystems - providing ample opportunity for laboratory and field experience for students. More details can be read below!

My family and I are new to Oregon and the Klamath Falls area (2023), and we have loved exploring all the incredible outdoor experiences it has to offer. I enjoy going on hiking adventures with my wife and two sons, and our dog, Aurora.

_{Ongoing Research}

“Synthesis of New Light-Harvesting Complexes to be Utilized in the Field of Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell Research”

The need for a diverse energy power matrix is more apparent than ever before in human history. While multiple renewable energy sources must be investigated, the one with the most long-term assurance is the sun. One of the most exciting avenues of solar energy lies in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSC’s) due to their versatility, longevity, and potential multiple-use platforms. This project involves synthesis and testing of novel dipyrrin ligands and dipyrrinato ruthenium complexes to act as a wide-spectrum, efficient dyes to graft onto a known DSSC framework. Existing dyes lack efficiency in absorbing in the highest solar-flux band of sunlight, or they lack stability for long-life. Our proposed dyes with dipyrrin ligands offer the opportunity to “tune” to a maximum absorption of the solar spectrum and precedence indicates will enhance stability of the dye and constructed solar cell. Upon successful synthesis, prototype cells will be constructed and tested for photovoltaic efficiency, quantification of passive solar energy, and longevity of stable solar energy conversion.

“Investigation and Monitoring of Water Quality of Natural Waterways of the Klamath Basin”

In the Klamath Basin “water” is one of the most divisive topics that can be mentioned. Whether it be in scientific, agricultural, governmental, cultural, or recreational circles, the topic of water is always high-impact and will draw “ears to listen”. This project aims to help understand the impacts of anthropogenic and environmental phenomena on the Klamath Basin watershed. Looking specifically at measuring criteria such as pH, temperature, dissolved oxygen, sediment, turbidity, nitrate, and total phosphorus levels to better understand how agencies and individuals can help restore ecosystem health. This information would be used to help mitigate and work toward solving many of the problems with lake and stream health (which the poor level is well-known) and to inform strategies to focus on better water management via ecosystem restoration. Working with local agencies and landowners, we will investigate intriguing privately-owned waterways, forest-fire-impacted streams and creeks, and larger bodies of water such as the Upper Klamath Lake. The health of the ecosystems of the Klamath Basin and the sustainable usage of its resources by humans depends on quality data and understanding of the quality of the watershed.