Syed Dara has taught PsTL/GC 1082—Supplement Instruction in Chemistry, for the TRiO program since spring 2003. He also teaches math for GC/Upward Bound during summers. He also taught GC 1082—Supplement Instruction in Biology last fall.

Syed earned his B.S. in plant and soil sciences from University of Wisconsin and M.S. and Ph.D. in soil chemistry and plant physiology (with emphasis in analytical chemistry) from South Dakota State University. He then joined a team of scientists conducting research in the area of biological material analysis using near infrared reflectance spectroscopy (NIRS) technology at North Dakota State University. Syed then joined Toro Company to introduce the same technology in the golf industry.

Syed’s research experience in analytical chemistry includes working at Cargill and visiting scientists in Japan. He has published numerous scientific articles and holds a patent in the area of near infrared reflectance spectroscopy. His work experience includes building and managing state-of-the-art wet chemistry laboratories for the University and the golf industry.

Because he is interested in learning “how we learn,” Syed is currently enrolled in the College of Education and Human Development to earn a science teaching license He lives with wife and a son on a hobby farm in Ham Lake and is a passionate gardener, soccer player, and coach.

For more information, please visit www.nir-att.com.