Science tutoring that builds understanding.

Helping students master science through curiosity, problem solving, and a deeper understanding of how the world works.

William Roberts

About Me

I graduated from Brown University Magna Cum Laude with a bachelors of science in Chemistry. I am passionate about helping students build confidence in their scientific ability, expanding what they thought themselves capable of.

Throughout my academic career, I have studied chemistry from both theoretical and experimental perspectives. My coursework and research have given me a strong foundation in chemistry, physics, mathematics, and scientific problem solving.

I believe the best science education comes from connecting abstract concepts to physical reality. Whether a student is learning their first chemistry concepts or tackling advanced university material, my goal is to make difficult ideas clear and approachable.

When not teaching or in the laboratory, you can find me writing or reading poetry, building my lamp collection, or planning tomorrows outfit.

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Teaching Experience

Head Teaching Assistant

I worked as the HTA for General Chemistry, Brown's largest undergraduate STEM course, supporting over 200 students. I led weekly lectures and recitations along with in-depth, exam review sessions. I worked with students through problem solving, content understanding, and exam strategies.

Tutor

I have worked as tutor for over 5 years and 40+ students, in both one-on-one and in group settings. Across a number of courses, I work to improve conceptual understanding, develop problem solving strategies, and build actual confidence in science.

Tutoring Subjects

Chemistry

Chemistry, AP Chemistry, General Chemistry (Undergraduate), Organic Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Thermodynamics (Graduate), Quantum Mechanics (Graduate)

Physics

General Physics: Mechanics, General Physics: Electricity and Magnetism, Optics

Mathematics

Algebra, Geometry, Calculus I-III, Statistics

Research

My research experience allows me to bring real scientific expertise into my teaching. As a physical chemist, I specialize in spectroscopy, instrumentation, microscopy, and experimental design.

My undergraduate research culminated in an honors senior thesis: Ultrafast Raman Spectroscopy and Chemical Imaging

Ultrafast Raman Microscopy

Designed and built an ultrafast stimulated Raman microscopy system for chemical imaging and molecular characterization. This work involved lasers, optics, spectroscopy, microscope design, galvo scanning systems, data acquisition hardware, and custom software development.

Raman spectroscopy setup

Molecular Spectroscopy

Investigated molecular electronic structure through photoelectron and photodetachment spectroscopy of cryogenically cooled molecular ions in the Lai-Sheng Wang laboratory. This research resulted in a publication in the Journal of Chemical Physics and involved high vacuum instrumentation, ion trapping, laser spectroscopy, and electronic structure analysis.

Photoelectron spectroscopy apparatus

Publications & Writing

Photoelectron and Photodetachment Spectroscopy of Cryogenically-Cooled 2-Anthrolide Anion

Journal of Chemical Physics

Research contribution involving molecular spectroscopy, electronic structure analysis, and experimental characterization.

Human Entropy

Chrysalis Press — Issue 0

A creative exploration of entropy, identity, and the relationship between scientific concepts and human experience.

Student Testimonials

"William is the most effective tutor I’ve had during my time at Brown, and has an innate pedagogical gift."

"I likely wouldn’t have passed the class without him. If he was able to help my grades, he’ll be able to help anyone's."

"I can say with complete confidence that I would have not seen the same type of success without William's tutoring and guidance."

"He was extremely receptive and helpful with answering questions, and he made each of his lessons engaging, so I was never bored during our sessions."

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