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The Welch Foundation has awarded Â鶹ӳ»­Ó°Òô’s Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry a $180,000 grant, supporting the department’s mission to promote and enhance chemistry research. The grant will provide $60,000 annually over the next three years, beginning June 1, 2025, and continuing through May 31, 2028. 

Dr. Ozge Gunaydin, Chair of the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, expressed excitement upon receiving the grant.

"The Welch Foundation grant means a lot to our department. It supports and enhances our chemistry research program and helps us provide scholarships to our undergraduate and graduate students,” she said. 

This prestigious grant will fund a variety of initiatives aimed at fostering research and experiential learning in the department. The funds will be allocated to provide scholarships, purchase lab equipment and chemicals, and support travel to industry meetings and national conferences for both students and faculty.  

“Our goal is to promote chemistry research by providing the necessary tools and resources,” Dr. Gunaydin explained. “This includes supporting students and faculty in their research endeavors and offering hands-on laboratory training to prepare students for careers in the chemical workforce, graduate programs, and professional schools.” 

The grant also opens new doors for the department, as it enables Â鶹ӳ»­Ó°Òô to apply for an additional equipment grant of up to $150,000 from the Welch Foundation, with matching funds from the university.  

Research is a cornerstone of the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, with opportunities available to students at all levels. Undergraduate chemistry majors are required to complete three credit hours of research as part of their degree, and additional elective credits allow students to further their research experience.  

“Our goal is to cultivate creative thinking by engaging students in literature reviews, experiments, data analysis, and effective communication of their findings,” Dr. Gunaydin stated. “These experiences are integral to their scientific development and future success.”  

The department also emphasizes participation in conferences and research publications, giving students a platform to showcase their work and gain valuable experience. 

This departmental grant ensures that all faculty and students engaged in research, spanning fields such as organic, physical, analytical, forensic, inorganic chemistry, and biochemistry, are supported. The funding will enable the purchase of essential resources, including small equipment, chemicals, and glassware, to facilitate cutting-edge research. 

Additionally, the grant aligns with Â鶹ӳ»­Ó°Òô’s mission to improve education quality, retention, and graduation rates. The department’s initiatives, such as the Annual Poster Competition, CHEM-Connect Colloquium, and Women in STEM symposium, will continue to inspire and support students in achieving their research and career goals.  

“Incorporating research into education has a profound impact on students’ career aspirations, providing value beyond the traditional curriculum,” Dr. Gunaydin said. 

This is the latest in a series of grants from the Welch Foundation, one of the nation’s largest private funding sources for fundamental chemical research. The support reaffirms Â鶹ӳ»­Ó°Òô’s commitment to preparing the next generation of chemists through innovative research and experiential learning opportunities.  

The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry will use this grant to enhance its research programs and cultivate a thriving environment for students and faculty, paving the way for future achievements in the field of chemistry.