Greenville Professor Awarded for Excellence in Scientific Research

Furman University professor receives prestigious scientific research award

A chemistry professor at Furman University has been honored with the 2024 South Carolina Governor’s Award for Excellence in Scientific Research at a Predominantly Undergraduate Institution. The award was presented to the professor by Governor Henry McMaster in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the field of scientific research.

Exploring the Origins of Life

The professor, who has been teaching at Furman University for 18 years, has dedicated his research to exploring the fundamental chemical conundrums surrounding the origins of life. He has worked closely with around 50 undergraduate students to investigate how life emerged from a mixture of organic molecules in a lifeless environment.

Breakthrough Research

His groundbreaking work has led to new lines of scientific inquiry, numerous awards, and publications in prestigious journals such as Nature Communications, Nature Chemistry, and Angewandte Chemie. Notably, his research has also resulted in the development of a method for synthesizing citric acid cycle intermediates, which has potential applications in diagnosing cancer cells.

Commercial Ventures

Recognizing the commercial potential of his research, the professor and one of his former students founded a company on campus in 2018 to produce and distribute biological intermediates globally. This venture has not only received a grant from the South Carolina Research Authority but has also been awarded a U.S. patent for its intellectual property.

Imparting Knowledge to Students

Through his work, the professor has not only advanced scientific knowledge but has also provided valuable hands-on experience to his students, preparing them for academic, societal, and commercial pursuits. His dedication to training undergraduates has resulted in numerous successes and achievements for the students involved.

Impact on the Upstate Community

This on-campus startup has not only contributed to Furman University’s presence in the Upstate’s entrepreneurial ecosystem but has also served as a platform for educating students about the intricacies of starting and running a business. The professor’s commitment to excellence and innovation has had a far-reaching impact on the academic and commercial landscape of the region.