Apr
29
2025
Department of Chemistry Faculty Seminar, Presenter Rich Schaller
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM, Evanston
Department of Chemistry Faculty Seminars
Recent News
Plastic recycling gets a breath of fresh air
Tobin Marks and first author Yosi Kratish have developed a simple, non-toxic, cost-effective method to break down plastic waste. Using an inexpensive catalyst and moisture from air, they convert polyethylene terephthalate (PET) into monomers for recycling into new materials.
Scientists spot water molecules flipping before they split, and it could help them produce cheaper hydrogen fuel
For the first time, scientists have observed water molecules splitting in real time to form hydrogen and oxygen. Just before splitting, Franz Geiger and first author Raiden Speelman saw the molecules unexpectedly flip 180 degrees, revealing a crucial explanation for the higher energy required. This insight could lead to more efficient water splitting, offering potential for cheaper clean hydrogen fuel and breathable oxygen for future Mars missions.
Brewing Tea Can Remove Toxic Metals From Water, Study Suggests
Good news for tea lovers—your daily brew may also be purifying the water. Vinayak Dravid and first author Benjamin Shindel have shown that brewing tea naturally adsorbs heavy metals like lead and cadmium, effectively filtering dangerous contaminants. The heavy metal ions stick to the surface of the tea leaves, where they remain trapped.
Announcements & Events
Faculty Honors
Sossina Haile selected for the 2025 Robert B. Sosman Award
Open Positions
Assistant Professor of Research/Director of Mass Spectrometry (IMSERC)
Upcoming Events
Apr
30
2025
Excellence in Graduate Research: 2021 Award Winner Xiatong LI, NC...
3:00 PM - 4:00 PM, Evanston
Excellence in Graduate Research: 2021 Award Winner Xiatong LI, NCSU - Kanatzidis Group Alumni Contact Ruth Barrerra - ruth.barrera@nor...
May
6
2025
Department of Chemistry Faculty Seminar, Presenter Dayne Swearer
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM, Evanston
Department of Chemistry Faculty Seminars
Community Spotlight
The faculty, students, alumni, and staff who comprise our department are dedicated to outstanding research and scholarship.
Winter Newsletter
It is with deep sorrow that we acknowledge the passing of Sir Fraser Stoddart, a giant in the world of chemistry and a cherished member of our Northwestern community. His loss is deeply felt, but his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
Beyond his scientific brilliance, Fraser was an unwavering mentor, a generous colleague, and a steadfast friend. He had a rare gift for engaging with people from all walks of life and at every stage of their careers, always listening with patience and sincerity. I am profoundly grateful for the time he spent talking with me, regardless of the subject.
As we mourn his loss, we also celebrate a life dedicated to discovery, mentorship, and the betterment of humankind. While this newsletter highlights many of the department’s accomplishments from the fall, it also reflects on Sir Fraser Stoddart’s lasting impact—his scientific contributions, his mentorship, and the profound influence he had on our community. Let us carry forward his passion for science, his generosity of spirit, and his relentless curiosity.
Our Research
Research at the Department of Chemistry is innovative, collaborative and interdisciplinary by nature.
Cutting Edge Science
Watch our videos to learn more about the Chemistry at Northwestern.
Learn more about interdisciplinary training in the Department
Learn more about student leadership in the Department