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David T Allen

David T Allen

Director, Center for Energy and Environmental Resources, McKetta Department of Chemical Engineering
allen@che.utexas.edu
+1 512 471 0049, +1 512 475 7842

Expertise: Atmospheric chemistry; Urban air quality and pollution prevention; Environmental and industrial reaction engineering

Eric V Anslyn

Eric V Anslyn

Professor, Department of Chemistry, College of Natural Sciences
anslyn@austin.utexas.edu
+1 512 471 0068

Expertise: Developing chemical sensors for real-world applications such as detecting counterfeit wine, spirits and olive oil

Elizabeth J Catlos

Elizabeth J Catlos

Associate Professor, Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, Jackson School of Geosciences
ejcatlos@jsg.utexas.edu
+1 512 471 4762

Expertise: Can also see https://www.catlos.work/ My primary research focus is <strong>geochemistry</strong>, and how the fundamentals of chemistry (mineral reactions, radiogenic and stable isotopes, major and trace elements) can be and are used to understand what the Earth was like in the past. In this, I have interests that span a broad range of range of plate boundary processes and laboratory approaches. Many ancient fault systems are clues to determine the evolution and migration of Earth's continents in the past, identify important economic resources that formed during specific times in Earth's history, and/or to assess geological hazards that result due to reactivation of older faults or mass movement of rocks. They are used to understand how plate tectonics operates today and how it operated in the past. I am interested in constraining the evolution of a number of fault systems and mountain ranges that formed during the closure of ancient ocean systems primarily across Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. <br> <br>For example, a major portion of my <strong>Himalayan research </strong> agenda involves constraining past motion on the Main Central Thrust, a large-scale shear zone that worked to create the highest mountains on the planet. I currently use novel geochemical and geochronological approaches that take advantage of modern-day technology to understand how <strong> garnet-bearing rocks </strong> moved at a high-resolution scale within that structure. Garnets are chemical tape recorders, and their chemical elements can be used to ascertain the pressures and temperatures they experienced. They also enclose radioactive minerals, such as monazite, that can be dated to time their history. Data from numerous garnet-bearing rocks across the Main Central Thrust can be used to inform us regarding how and when the Himalayas uplifted in the past, and lend insight into the motion that affects it today. To this end, I collaborate and learn from other researchers, such as geophysicists and modelers. <br> <br>I apply similar approaches to garnet-bearing rocks found in extensional systems in western <strong>Turkey</strong>. In this region, the plate boundary experienced a major switch in the geological past from compression to extension. Again, I apply new approaches in the thermodynamic modeling and geochronology to garnets in this locale to understand why and how this plate tectonic transition occurred. <br> <br>In this portion of my research, I also include the study of <strong>granites</strong>, as these igneous bodies emplaced during the extensional phase. The timing of their formation is key pieces of information regarding how extension occurred in western Turkey, both in time and space. To this end, I pioneered new imaging approaches to their study, and collaborate with economic geologists in Turkey who are interested in how heat and fluid flow around these granite bodies are intricately involved in the formation of ore resources. Their research sparked my interest in granite petrology, and I also study this rock type in China and Slovakia. Some of these granites formed at ancient plate boundaries as continents collided, and their ages and chemistry constrain when and what types of geological processes operated during their formation. <br> <br>The approaches I apply (geochemistry and geochronology) are of interest to a wide variety of researchers, so I collaborate and involve students in projects that include other geologists. An example of this is the dating of radioactive minerals from <strong>ancient meteorite impact craters and massive volcanic eruptions</strong>, events that are key for shaping how life evolved in Earth's history. These projects involve the use of modern and ever-evolving <strong>technological advances in geochemistry</strong>, such as the laser ablation of tiny zircon crystals, or the use of instruments that do not require minerals to be separated from rocks, such as secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS). <br> <br>I am interested in <strong>accessory minerals</strong>, such as zircon and monazite, and what controls their appearance in metamorphic and igneous rocks. Monazite, in particular, has been a focus of my research and I have key expertise in its formation, composition, geochronology, and its use as a rare earth resource. <br> <br>Although my research primarily involves compressional and extensional plate boundaries and igneous and metamorphic rocks, I recently delved into understanding sedimentary rocks from along the North Anatolian Fault, a major strike-slip system in north-central Turkey. In this research, we obtained oxygen isotopes across transects along calcite-filled fractures in limestones using SIMS. These calcite-filled fractures have the potential to record their source and provide key insight into the history of the limestones as well as their use for recording modern day fluid flow driven by seismic activity along the active fault system. <br> <br>Fundamentally, my research is <strong>field-based</strong> and involves the mapping and collection of rocks and understanding their importance in addressing research questions regarding what the Earth was like in the past. The research is <strong>laboratory-based</strong>, and I take advantage of modern advances in technology applied to geosciences, including numerous facilities at UT Austin and elsewhere.

James R Chelikowsky

James R Chelikowsky

Professor, Department of Physics, College of Natural Sciences
jrc@utexas.edu
+1 512 232 9083

Expertise: Quantum models for functionalized nanostructures; simulations of liquids and crystal growth; simulated images from probe microscopies; defects in oxides; materials informatics; high performance algorithms for the electronic structure problem.

Richard L Corsi

Richard L Corsi

Distinguished Teaching Professor Emeritus, Fariborz Maseeh Department of Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering
corsi@mail.utexas.edu

Expertise: Indoor air quality; Sources, fate and control of indoor air pollution; Homogeneous and heterogeneous indoor environmental chemistry; Human exposure to toxins in indoor environments

John G Ekerdt

John G Ekerdt

Professor and Dick Rothwell Endowed Chair in Chemical Engineering, Department of Chemical Engineering, Cockrell School of Engineering
ekerdt@utexas.edu
+1 512 471 4689

Expertise: Dr. Ekerdt's research is on the surface, growth and materials chemistry of metal, dielectric, ferroelectric, and polymer thin films. We seek to understand and describe nucleation and growth of films and nanostructures, their structure-property relationships, and site-specific reactions that lead to their formation. The programs are motivated by applications in electronic materials, energy and sensors. The research programs are highly interdisciplinary and involve collaborations with faculty in chemical engineering, physics and electrical engineering, and researchers in industry.

Andrew  Ellington

Andrew Ellington

Professor, Department of Molecular Biosciences, College of Natural Sciences
andy.ellington@austin.utexas.edu
+1 512 232 3424, +1 512 471 6445

Expertise: Directed evolution; ribozymes; biotechnology; chemical and biological warfare detection

Roger P Farrar

Roger P Farrar

Professor Emeritus, Department of Kinesiology and Health Education, College of Education
rfarrar@austin.utexas.edu

Expertise: Studies muscle physiology and adaptability across the life span in response to exercise training and injury.

Raissa P Ferron

Raissa P Ferron

Associate Professor, Fariborz Maseeh Department of Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering
rferron@mail.utexas.edu
+1 512 232 2691

Expertise: Rheology; Characterization of fresh concrete micro/nano-structure; Cement chemistry and aggregation mechanisms; Self-consolidating concrete; Affordable sustainable housing materials

Z Leah  Harris

Z Leah Harris

Department Chair, Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, Dell Medical School
zena.harris@austin.utexas.edu
+1 240 426 7428, +1 512 324 0595

Adam  Heller

Adam Heller

Research Professor Emeritus, McKetta Department of Chemical Engineering
heller@che.utexas.edu

Expertise: Dr. Heller's study of the physical chemistry of inorganic oxyhalide solutions resulted in the first neodymium liquid lasers (1964-1967) and in the lithium thionyl chloride battery (1973), one of the earliest lithium batteries, remaining in use in medical and defense systems where 20 year shelf life, high energy density and a broad operating temperature range are required. His studies of photoelectrochemical solar cells resulted in 11.5 percent efficient solar cells (1980) and in 11 percent efficient hydrogen evolving photoelectrodes. His related studies of photoelectrocatalysis established that the rate of photo-assisted oxidation of organic matter on photocatalytic titanium dioxide particles was controlled by the rate of reduction of adsorbed oxygen by trapped electrons. He established the field the electrical wiring of enzymes (1988-2005), the electrical connection of their catalytic redox centers to electrodes, and built with wired enzymes the subcutaneously implanted miniature glucose sensors. His wired enzymes became the core technology of the FreeStyle NavigatorTM system of Abbott Diabetes Care; it continuously and accurately monitors subcutaneous glucose levels in diabetic people.

Graeme A Henkelman

Graeme A Henkelman

Professor, Department of Chemistry, College of Natural Sciences
henkelman@utexas.edu
+1 512 769 3180

Expertise: Energy conversion and storage; fuel cells; chemical reactions at surfaces; novel catalysts; battery materials.

Simon M Humphrey

Simon M Humphrey

Professor, Department of Chemistry, College of Natural Sciences
smh@cm.utexas.edu
+1 512 471 0312

Expertise: Catalysis; materials science; nanoscience and nanotechnology; polymer chemistry; surface chemistry.

Gyeong S Hwang

Gyeong S Hwang

Professor, McKetta Department of Chemical Engineering
gshwang@che.utexas.edu
+1 512 471 4847

Expertise: Dr. Hwang's research has a well-balanced emphasis on fundamentals and applications. Using first principles-based tomistic modeling my research group focuses on developing a better understanding of (1) surface chemical reactions and dynamics, (2) solid-solid and solid-fluid interfacial interactions, and (3) defect nature and formation as well as their role in controlled chemical doping. By incorporating the fundamental knowledge and understanding into larger scale simulations, my research group also attempts to solve engineering problems encountered in the fabrication of nanoscale electronic, chemical and biological devices.

Brent L Iverson

Brent L Iverson

Dean, School of Undergraduate Studies
iversonb@austin.utexas.edu
+1 512 750 0519

Expertise: Biotechnology; bioorganic chemistry; organic chemistry; molecular biology; drug and diagnostic development

Keith P Johnston

Keith P Johnston

Professor, McKetta Department of Chemical Engineering
kpj@che.utexas.edu
+1 512 471 4617

Expertise: We utilize fundamental concepts in colloid and interface science, materials chemistry, nanotechnology, and polymer science to design, synthesize, and characterize materials for advanced performance in energy, pharmaceutical, and biomedical applications. We focus on Advanced Functional Nanomaterials: functionalization of metals and metal oxide/polymer systems Nanoparticle Interactions with Liquid and Solid Interfaces: engineered interfacial interactions in solids and oil/water and gas/water systems Nanocluster Self Assembly Platform for Enhanced Properties: protein nanoclusters, photonic NIR gold nanoclusters, metal oxides for subsurface imaging and catalysis

Maria  Juenger

Maria Juenger

Professor, Fariborz Maseeh Department of Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering
mjuenger@mail.utexas.edu
+1 512 232 3593

Expertise: Hydration chemistry and microstructural characterization of portland cement and related materials; Mechanisms of chemical deterioration in concrete; Concrete durability; Reducing the environmental impact of concrete production

Lynn E Katz

Lynn E Katz

Director, Center for Water and the Environment, Fariborz Maseeh Department of Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering
lynnkatz@mail.utexas.edu
+1 512 471 0071, +1 512 471 4244

Expertise: Contaminant fate and transport; Combined abiotic/biotic treatment systems for in-situ remediation; Environmental surface chemistry

Brian A Korgel

Brian A Korgel

Professor and Matthew Van Winkle Regents Professorship in Chemical Engineering, Department of Chemical Engineering, Cockrell School of Engineering
korgel@che.utexas.edu
+1 512 471 5633

Expertise: Brian A. Korgel is the Director of The University of Texas at Austin Energy Institute and the Rashid Engineering Regents Chair Professor in the McKetta Department of Chemical Engineering. He also directs the Industry/University Cooperative Research Center (IUCRC) for a Solar Powered Future (SPF2050), the Nanotechnologies area of the UT Austin Portugal Program at UT, and serves as Associate Editor of the journal, Chemistry of Materials. He is a former Fulbright Fellow and has been Visiting Professor at the University of Alicante in Spain, the Université Josef Fourier in France and the Chinese Academy of Sciences in Beijing.

Shanti  Kumar

Shanti Kumar

Associate Professor, Department of Radio-Television-Film, Moody College of Communication
shanti.kumar@austin.utexas.edu
+1 512 232 3498

Expertise: Global media; cultural studies

Stephen E Laubach

Stephen E Laubach

Research Professor, Bureau of Economic Geology, Jackson School of Geosciences
steve.laubach@beg.utexas.edu
+1 512 471 1534, +1 512 471 6303

Expertise: Structural diagenesis, structural geology, fracture analysis, fluid inclusion and cathodoluminescence studies, rock mechanics, mechanical and fracture stratigraphy, hydrocarbon exploration and development in deep and/or structurally complex areas, tight gas sandstone, coalbed methane, shale gas; geothermal, geologic aspects of hydraulic fracturing, application of borehole-imaging geophysical logs to stress and fracture evaluation, structural evolution of North American Cordillera, fracture history of NW Scotland, regional fracture studies Argentina.

Howard M Liljestrand

Howard M Liljestrand

Professor and Gerard A. Rohlich Regents Professorship in Civil Engineering, Department of Civil, Architectural, and Environmental Engineering, Cockrell School of Engineering
liljestrand@mail.utexas.edu
+1 512 471 4604

Expertise: Aquatic chemistry; Contaminant transport; Pollutant containment and remediation acid deposition; Air pollution modeling

Hung-Wen  Liu

Hung-Wen Liu

Professor, College of Pharmacy
h.w.liu@mail.utexas.edu
+1 512 232 7811

Expertise: Antibiotic-resistant bacteria, bioorganic Chemistry, bacterial cell wall formation, biosynthesis of antibiotics, mechanistic enzymology, post translational modification of nuclear proteins.

Zhanfei  Liu

Zhanfei Liu

Professor, Department of Marine Science, College of Natural Sciences
zhanfei.liu@utexas.edu
+1 361 749 6772

Expertise: Marine organic compounds are produced in the ocean surface through photosynthesis and are modified by bacteria or zooplankton; some are preserved by interaction with minerals. Dr. Liu’s research investigates the source, distribution, and changes of organic compounds in marine environments. Knowing geochemical behaviors of organic compounds is critical for a better understanding of global carbon cycle and nutrient dynamics. Dr. Liu is also interested in geochemical behaviors of petroleum hydrocarbons in marine environments. More recently, he's turned his attention to nurdles, small bits of plastic that are increasingly appearing in marine environments, to find out what toxins they may be absorbing and passing along to wildlife.

Arumugam  Manthiram

Arumugam Manthiram

Professor and Joe C. Walter, Jr. Chair in Engineering, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Cockrell School of Engineering
manth@austin.utexas.edu
+1 512 471 1791, +1 512 471 7394

Expertise: Clean energy materials; Electrochemical energy conversion and storage; Lithium ion batteries, fuel cells, supercapacitors, and solar cells; Nanomaterials

Elena C McDonald-Buller

Elena C McDonald-Buller

Senior Research Engineer, Center for Energy and Environmental Resources, Cockrell School of Engineering
ecmb@mail.utexas.edu
+1 512 471 2891

Expertise: Air quality modeling; emissions trading; atmospheric chemistry; impacts of urban development patterns on air quality and population exposure to pollution; applications of satellite remote sensing data for air quality research

Charles B Mullins

Charles B Mullins

Professor, McKetta Department of Chemical Engineering
mullins@che.utexas.edu
+1 512 471 5817

Expertise: Materials chemistry for energy studies regarding solar photoelectrocatalysis; catalysis of nano-structured surfaces; materials for lithium-ion battery electrodes.

Donald R Paul

Donald R Paul

Professor and Ernest Cockrell, Sr. Chair in Engineering, Department of Chemical Engineering, Cockrell School of Engineering
drp@che.utexas.edu

Expertise: Interests include the broad areas of polymer science and engineering and chemical engineering. Current research involves various aspects of polymeric materials including polymer blends; membranes for separations, drug delivery, packaging, etc.; and polymer processing.  The blend research deals with the thermodynamics of polymer-polymer interactions (miscibility, phase diagrams, interfaces), reactive compatibilization of multiphase mixtures, rubber toughening, the control of phase morphology during processing by both chemical and physical means, and polymeric nanocomposites.  The research on diffusion in polymers involves investigation of structure-property relationships to design better membranes for separation processes and improved barrier materials plus an interest in theories and models for describing sorption and permeation of small molecule penetrants in polymers including the rubbery, glassy, semi-crystalline, and liquid crystalline states of these materials.  The research on nanocomposites involves devising chemical and processing strategies for exfoliating layered silicates in polymer matrices for improvement of performance using nanoscale reinforcement.  Synthesis, characterization, and performance of polymers are an integral part of the research in all these areas.

Michael  Rose

Michael Rose

Associate Professor, Department of Chemistry, College of Natural Sciences
mrose@cm.utexas.edu
+1 512 471 4456

Expertise: Creating hydrogen fuel from water and light; Synthetic inorganic chemistry; solar fuels; catalysis.

Victor  Sampson

Victor Sampson

Associate Professor, Department of Curriculum and Instruction, College of Education
victor.sampson@utexas.edu
+1 512 232 7504

Expertise: Studies the ways culturally and linguistically diverse groups of people use disciplinary the core ideas and practices of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) to explain phenomena or to solve problems that are meaningful and consequential to them.

Jonathan L Sessler

Jonathan L Sessler

Professor, Department of Chemistry, College of Natural Sciences
sessler@cm.utexas.edu
+1 512 471 5009, +1 512 471 6674

Expertise: Organic chemistry; texaphyrins; expanded porphyrins; anion recognition; drug development; anti cancer agents; technical analyses of patents

Mukul M Sharma

Mukul M Sharma

Professor, Hildebrand Department of Petroleum and Geosystems Engineering
msharma@mail.utexas.edu
+1 512 471 3161, +1 512 471 3257

Expertise: Formation damage; Petrophysics; Fluid flow in porous media; Hydraulic fracturing

Philip L Varghese

Philip L Varghese

Professor and Stanley P. Finch Centennial Professorship in Engineering & Distinguished Teaching Professor, Department of Aerospace Engineering and Engineering Mechanics, Cockrell School of Engineering
varghese@mail.utexas.edu
+1 512 471 3110

Expertise: Laser Based Sensors; Flow Diagnostics Using Raman and Rayleigh Scattering; Optimal Modeling of Nonequilibrium Flows

Carlton G Willson

Carlton G Willson

Professor and Rashid Engineering Regents Chair, Department of Chemical Engineering, Cockrell School of Engineering
willson@che.utexas.edu

Expertise: Polymers, materials, and processes for microelectronics; Photoresists; Liquid crystals; Computer simulation; Mass transport studies; Kinetics; Graft polymerization; Biosensor arrays; Novel processes for producing nanometer scale structures