Gregory K. Friestad is an associate professor in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Iowa, with research interests in asymmetric synthesis, free radical chemistry, organosilicon chemistry, and new synthetic methods with transition metal reagents and catalysts. Dr. Friestad earned a BS degree in chemistry from Bradley University and a PhD in organic chemistry from University of Oregon, mentored by Bruce P. Branchaud.

Dr. Friestad teaches at the graduate and undergraduate level, including more than 15 semesters teaching majors and non-majors organic laboratory courses. Since 2015, Friestad has been developing a new curriculum for the introductory organic laboratory, focusing on standard scale experimental procedures to develop skills and experience that translate to research, while emphasizing sustainability and biological perspectives. Aside from practicing organic chemistry, he enjoys travel, live music, disc golf, and spending time outdoors with family.