The Bridge Between STEM

Dr. Polinski of Bloomsburg University     

    Its nearly 7 am, Dr. Polinski unlocks the door to Hartline Science Centers room 222 at Bloomsburg University. When not teaching his vast array of lectures and labs such as Chemistry for the Sciences I and II, Inorganic Chemistry, and Chemical research I and II, he can be found in his office. Prior to the start of the 2023 spring semester, Dr. Polinski sits in front of his computer with his new student rosters facing him determined to learn names before the class is even in session. His desire to learn about his students is what makes him one of the best here at BU.

  After attending Washington & Jefferson College for a B.A in Chemistry, Dr. Polinski admits that " I never wanted to be a number in a classroom. I want to know things about my students, their strengths and weaknesses,  because that's what worked for me as an undergrad." He makes it clear to his students that he wants nothing but the best for them, with his numerous office hours and open door policy allowing for anyone to stop by when his door is open. With this                                                               policy he elaborates " I just want you all to feel                                                                          invited, that you are not a number to me."

    Dr. Polinski's love for the sciences is evident, especially through his research.  As an undergrad, Dr. Polinski had the privilege to be apart of a few research projects. Once graduated, he went on to pursue a PhD in Inorganic Chemistry at the University of Notre Dame. Here his thesis was titled "Synthesis, Characterization, and fundamental studies of Novel Trivalent Lanthanide and actinide Borates."

    After being questioned upon his research, he was quick to talk. His research revolves around the areas of nuclear and synthetic solid-state inorganic chemistry. In his current research group, their focus is on synthetic inorganic chemistry. Many may not know what exactly this means, but Dr. Polinski describes it as the "bridge between inorganic, physical, engineering and materials science." Here at Bloomsburg Dr. Polinski is leading and also contributing to a plethora of research project. One of his more recent and favorite research projects was the accidentally discovery of the ionic radius of Californium 3+. The original goal was to make F elements square eights but "after what started out as one thing actually morphed into something else and that's the beauty of science" Dr. Polinski proudly stated.

Dr. Polinski's chem 115 lecture

    After being asked what makes a "good" school day for you, Dr. Polinski is eager to answer. In an heartfelt tone he replies "any day i get to talk science with you all makes my day, that's what makes the job fullfilling. Seeing those lightbulbs go off... that genuinely makes my day." Dr Polinski uses his sense of humor and witty remarks to keep chemistry fun and engaging. Upon entering the lecture room you can hear his joyous voice chatting away with students before the class begins at 1:00 pm in Hartline Science Center.  While attending one of his Chemistry for the sciences II lectures, I noticed that nearly all of his students eyes were directed on him and not an external source which I feel is a rare circumstance in this day and age. After lecture ends Dr. Polinski heads back to his office to plan for the weeks ahead.

      

    A head pops into the room, "Hey Dr P!"  How's it going?" Tori says with a grin. Dr. Polinski checks his watch it reads 6:37 PM. He exhales loud enough for her to hear, and joking states, "I'll be much better once i'm at home with my feet up watching some hockey."

     In his spare time, Dr. Polinski enjoys watching the Pittsburg Penguins take on their opponents at PPG Paints Arena. The science is also not left at the University as another hobby Dr. Polinski also enjoys brewing his own beer which he has been doing for the past 15 years. He explains "I enjoy making my own stuff, coming up with my new own recipes, trying things out, tweaking things, its all experimentation." 

    Dr. Polinski's hard work and dedication to his students does not get missed. When speaking to a former student of his, Vittoria LaBlanca, preached "Dr. Polinski made me understand chem II. It was a difficulty class, but he was always willing to help." When informing Dr.Polinski that his students are appreciative of his efforts made to enhance their learning, he simply smiles and responded with " I really just enjoy getting people hooked on science."