the department of chemical engineering at the university ... · the department of chemical...

University of Houston Department of Chemical Engineering 1

The Department of Chemical Engineering at the University of Houston

takes pride in its graduate program.

We have an outstanding faculty who carry out research in four principal

areas: energy engineering, environmental engineering, advanced materials,

and biomolecular engineering. We have internationally renowned experts

in chemical reaction engineering, polymer science, interfacial phenomena,

nanotechnology, and biotechnology. Our research in energy balances new

developments in petroleum and gas recovery with hydrogen generation

and fuel cells. Our research in advanced materials spans polymeric

nanocomposites, bio-based materials, and electronic materials. In the

exciting field of biomolecular engineering, several members of our faculty

are researching novel methods of biohazard detection, drug delivery, and

mechanisms for biomolecular crystallization.

The Department of Chemical Engineering at the University of Houston is relatively young, having

established an undergraduate program in 1949 and doctoral program in 1958. The Department grew

rapidly in the 1960s. By the late 1970s, it had established an international reputation. Since 2000, our

faculty has grown by nearly 50%. The newest members of our faculty are carrying on the Department’s

tradition of excellence in research and scholarship.

The Department has close ties with strong programs in chemistry, biochemistry, and physics. Several

of our faculty from other departments hold affiliated positions in chemical engineering. Our faculty

members are active participants in several major interdisciplinary centers on campus, including the

Institute for Molecular Design, the NASA URETI Center, the Space Vacuum Epitaxy Center, and the

Texas Center for Superconductivity. The majority of our faculty members have ongoing collaborations

with leading companies, varying in size, location and business focus, that ultimately reflect the diversity

of the research at the college.

I invite you to read this brochure and to visit our website, www.chee.uh.edu, for additional information.

Should you have questions, please contact me or other members of the Department.

Michael P. Harold

Dow Chair Professor & Department Chair

A Letter from the Chair

A Letter from the Chair ...................................1

Graduate Degree Programs .............................2

Undergraduate Degree Programs.....................4

Full-Time Chemical Engineering Faculty ..........5

Affiliated Chemical Engineering Faculty.........22

Adjunct Chemical Engineering Faculty...........30

Departmental Supporters and Sponsors .........34

Industrial Advisory Board ..............................34

Employers of Recent Graduates .....................35

The University of Houston, Houston...............36

Contents

The University of Houston provides equal treatment and

opportunity to all persons without regard to race, color,

religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status,

or sexual orientation except where such distinction is

required by law. This statement reflects compliance with

Titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX

of the Educational Amendments of 1972 and all other

federal and state regulations.

Prepared by the University of Houston Department of

Chemical Engineering, Richard Willson.

Produced by the UH Cullen College of Engineering

Office of Communications. 10/05.

2 University of Houston Department of Chemical Engineering

these, 18 semester hours must consist of the six requiredcourses specified, whereas the remainder are elective coursesin chemical engineering or related fields. A research projectand doctoral dissertation must be completed, providing atleast 36 additional credit hours towards the doctoral degree.At UH, the Ph.D. rarely requires more than 5 years after theB.S., with the average being less than 4 1/2 years.

M.S. IN PETROLEUM ENGINEERINGThis degree is offered for those who wish additional trainingor enhanced skills in the area of petroleum production.Designed primarily for professionals employed by localindustry, this program offers courses in the evenings from5:30 to 8:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday. This degreeprogram can be completed in 2–3 years of part-time study.

MASTER OF CHEMICAL ENGINEERINGA Master of Chemical Engineering degree is offered as a non-thesis program for the working professional. Theprogram has been designed for those persons who plan

careers in plant operations, design and management. It is not intended to be competitive with the Master of Science degree, which is specificallyresearch-oriented, nor with the MBA degree. Rather, the goal of this program is not only to permit earlier productive use of the young engineer’s technical skills, but also to introduce the engineer to the broad concepts of systems, analysis, advanced process economics and technical management.

Constituting the program is an MChE core of six required courses plusfour elective courses, selected to meet the student’s interests in the areas ofprocess control, management and business economics, biochemical andenvironmental engineering, and petroleum engineering. The courses areavailable in the late afternoon and evening, and the degree can becompleted in 2–3 years of part-time study.

M.S. WITH THESISEighteen semester hours of coursework are needed for completion of theM.S. degree, 12 of which are four required core courses. In addition, aresearch project and master’s thesis must be completed, providing anadditional 12 credit hours. Candidates with a Bachelor of Science inChemical engineering can complete all requirements in 15 to 21 months.Students with degrees in related fields, such as chemistry, physics,mechanical engineering, or materials science may need 9 to 18 hours ofpreparatory coursework.

PART-TIME M.S.The M.S. degree may also be obtained through coursework only. This is a part-time program, intended for students with a B.S. in ChemicalEngineering who are currently working in the industry. Thirty semesterhours of coursework are required, consisting of four core courses plus sixelective courses.

DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHYIn addition to continued study of a broad range ofengineering fundamentals, candidates for the doctoraldegree program enjoy intensive exposure to a specificfield of engineering research. Individual research isthe major focal point for these students, who areexpected to expand the frontiers of knowledge intheir area of endeavor. Moreover, candidates learnand experience the general philosophy, methods andconcepts of research and scholarly inquiry so theymay contribute after graduation to substantive issuescompletely unrelated to their doctoral research.Acceptance into the full-time Ph.D. program isgenerally accompanied by full financial support.

Ph.D. candidates must complete at least 36 semesterhours of coursework beyond the bachelor’s degree, or21 semester hours beyond the master’s degree. Of

GRADUATE DEGREE PROGRAMS

The Department of Chemical Engineering is dedicated to producing graduates

of the highest scholarship, with skills that will enable them not only to

prosper in their career endeavors but also to adapt to a changing landscape.

While most of our graduate students pursue a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering,

we also offer thesis-based M.S. and non-thesis M.Ch.E. degrees. The

department occupies more than 50,000 square feet in one of the two modern

buildings that house the Cullen College of Engineering. All full-time graduate

students are provided office and laboratory space to carry out their studies

and research. Most of our graduate students are provided financial aid in the

form of Teaching Assistantships and Research Assistantships and receive a

full tuition waiver and benefits plan. We also offer competitive graduate

scholarships. In addition, The college has an active graduate student group,

the Organization of Chemical Engineering Graduate Students.


Additional InformationFor additional information and an application package, send an email [email protected], or write to the following address:

Graduate Studies CoordinatorDepartment of Chemical EngineeringUniversity of HoustonHouston, TX 77204-4004, USAPhone: 713-743-4311

Graduate CoursesA distinctive feature of the graduate program is the regularavailability of a large number of graduate courses. As can beseen from the list below, these courses span a wide spectrumof subjects in chemical engineering fundamentals and inspecial topics. The department views these courses as anintegral part of the graduate program as well as a necessaryeducational complement to students’ experiences in theirresearch studies.

Graduate Core Courses (required for M.S. and Ph.D.):• CHEE 6331: Mathematical Methods in Chem. Eng. I

Linear methods applied to chemical engineering, matrices, transforms,series, complex variable methods and boundary layer problems.

• CHEE 6333: Transport Processes IAdvanced principles of fluid mechanics, heat and mass transfer withapplication to problems in research and design. Emphasis on unifiedview of transport process in laminar and turbulent flow situations.

• CHEE 6335: Classical and Statistical Thermodynamics IAdvanced principles of chemical engineering thermodynamics.Introduction to molecular and statistical thermodynamics and theirability to predict bulk thermodynamic properties and characteristics ofchemical engineering systems.

• CHEE 6337: Advanced Reaction EngineeringAn introduction to modern concepts and techniques of chemical reactoranalysis and design.

Required for Ph.D.• CHEE 6332: Mathematical Methods in Chem. Eng. II

(or other approved mathematically-intensive course)• CHEE 6334: Transport Processes II

Graduate Electives:• Advanced Process Control • Air Pollution Problems & Control • Applied Bifurcation Theory • Applied Nonlinear Methods for Engineers • Biochemical Engineering Fundamentals • Biochemical Separations • Catalytic Processes • Cellular & Bio Transport • Chemical Processing for Microelectronics • Colloidal & Interfacial Processes • Energy & Environment • Environmental Remediation • Introduction to Polymer Science • Introduction to Tissue Engineering • Materials Science & Engineering • Numerical Methods • Phase Transitions in Solutions • Plasma Processing

Other Degree ProgramsFaculty in the department participate in a wide variety of interdisciplinarywork, including advising students from the UH Biomedical EngineeringM.S. Program, Environmental Engineering M.S. and Ph.D. Programs,and the Materials Engineering M.S. and Ph.D. programs. Some jointly-appointed faculty associated with UH Chemical Engineering also advisestudents through the UH graduate programs in Biology & Biochemistryand Chemistry.


UNDERGRADUATE DEGREE PROGRAMS

The University of Houston Chemical Engineering undergraduate

program is ranked in the top ten in the nation (Gourman Report).

It is a four-year program with a total of 130 credit hours required.

Our engineers graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Chemical

Engineering, a minor in Chemistry, and a specialty in one of six

areas of chemical engineering: Chemical Process Engineering,

Biotechnology, Process Control, Electronic Materials,

Environmental Engineering, and Petroleum Engineering.

Admission InformationStudents enter the Cullen College of Engineering directly after highschool or as a transfer student with some college hours. The admissionrequirements are in the application brochure, which can be obtainedfrom the Office of Admissions, 713-743-1010, or from the websitewww.uh.edu/enroll/admis/.

AdvisingThe faculty of the Chemical Engineering Department considers advisingessential to the student’s academic planning and progress. In earlyNovember and April each year, students are required to see their assignedfaculty advisor. At these meetings, the faculty advisor will check the student’sprogress in the courses being taken and will assist the student with plansfor the following semester(s).

When new students arrive at the Chemical Engineering Department, theywill be advised by the Undergraduate Advisor/Associate Chairman, Dr.Demetre Economou, usually at an orientation conference. After one year,Dr. Economou will assign students to faculty members who will be withthe students until graduation. Students may see their advisors throughoutthe semester during regularly scheduled office hours for questions.

Related OpportunitiesThe Chemical Engineering Department offers scholarships up to $2,000for qualified students from various sources, such as the American Instituteof Chemical Engineers, Dow Chemical Company, Lubrizol, BP/Amoco,Halliburton, and various individual donors. The Engineering Dean’s Officealso offers many academic scholarships for qualified students.

The University of Houston is in the heart of the nation’s petrochemicalindustry. This makes it easier for the faculty to interact with their industrialcolleagues on a regular basis. The Engineering Career Center and theChemical Engineering Department cooperate to provide many opportunitiesfor summer internships and full-time positions for the students. Theuniversity also has an excellent cooperative education program in theengineering college that offers many opportunities for students to receive

career training in industry while financing their education and earninga degree.

Students have an opportunity to join several organizations, including theAmerican Institute of Chemical Engineers, the Mexican-AmericanEngineering Society, the National Society of Black Engineers, and theSociety of Women Engineers.

The Chemical Engineering Department encourages students to join anorganization, because it helps them become responsible members of theirprofession. These organizations help students learn the importance ofvolunteerism and how to become useful members of a community.

The American Institute of Chemical Engineers typically organizes 3–4plant trips each year, one seminar/meeting each month (with lunchprovided), picnics, and socials.

There are two national honor societies, the Omega Chi Epsilon (chemicalengineering) and the Tau Beta Pi (all engineering), for junior students whohave 3.25 or greater GPA and for seniors who have 3.00 or greater GPA.

Students in their senior year have the opportunity to do a research projector a Senior Honors Thesis with one of the faculty in the department.Research areas include reaction engineering, environmental engineering,electronic materials, biochemical and biomedical engineering, polymerengineering, improved oil recovery, or catalysis. This gives the studentsa chance to be exposed to research and to get a feel for graduateschool experience.

For More InformationTo receive more information, please contact:

Sharon Gates or Dr. Demetre EconomouDepartment of Chemical EngineeringUniversity of HoustonHouston, TX 77204-4004, USAPhone: 713-743-4325 or 713-743-4320

Neal R. Amundson ( )Email: [email protected]/faculty/amundson/

RESEARCH INTERESTS:The Aerosol ProblemA major environmental problemfacing the city of Houston is thepreponderance of chemicals in theaerosol particle population and alsothose adsorbed on solid particles.The description for modeling theatmosphere is difficult becausethe computational problemswhich this introduces into themodels are extensive. The goal isto develop reasonable models thatdescribe the situation.

Reaction and DiffusionThe field of reaction and diffusion in chemical engineering is a matureone, however there are still many problems that are not understood. Oneis the use of the Stefan-Maxwell equations coupled with general reactionsto establish a well-posed problem from a scientific point of view.

Air Quality ModelingWhile there are many models being used presently to describe whathappens in the atmosphere under various pollution emission events, mostof these are almost vintage and no one thus far has presented what seemsto be a bigger and better model. The University of Houston is eminentlyequipped to do the mathematical computational side. These require thesimultaneous solution of the Navier-Stokes equations, a transportequation for each chemical species and the inclusion of hundreds ofspecies programmed for a large parallel computer. The inclusion of theappropriate boundary and initial conditions make this an interestingscientific chemical engineering problem.

HONORS/ACTIVITIES:1997 Sc.D., Northwestern University1996 Neal R. Amundson Award, ISCRE, Brugge, Belgium1994 Doctor Honoris Causa, University of Guadalajara, Jalisco,

Mexico1993 Medal of Merit, University of Pennsylvania1992 American Academy of Arts & Sciences1992 National Academy of Science1990 NAE Founders’ Award1989 Computing and Modeling Association’s Albert Einstein Award1986 Eng.D. (Honoris Causa), University of Notre Dame1986 P.V. Danckwerts Memorial Lecture, London1985 Aaron Farfel Award, University of Houston1985 AIChE Founders’ Award1985 Sc.D. (Honoris Causa), University of Minnesota1975 Guggenheim Fellow1975 NATO Senior Fellow1973 AIChE Richard H Wilhelm Award1971 AIChE Warren K. Lewis Award1970 ASEE Vincent Bendix Award1970 Fellow, AIChE1969 National Academy of Engineering1961 AIChE William H. Walker Award1960 ACS Industrial and Engineering Chemistry Award1955 Guggenheim Fellow, Cambridge University, England1954–1955 Fulbright Scholar, Cambridge University, England

SELECTED PUBLICATIONS:1. Aris, R.B. and N.R. Amundson, “Reaction of a Continuous Mixture in

a Bubbling Fluidized Bed,” Trans. Inst. Of Chem. Eng., 71, A,611–617, 1993.

2. Morell, J.I., D.J. Economou and N.R. Amundson, “Pulsed-PowerVolume Heating Chemical Vapor Infiltration,” J. Mater. Res., 7, 9,2447–2457, 1992.

3. Morell, J.I., N.R. Amundson and S.K. Park, “Dynamics of a SingleParticle during Char Gasification,” Chem. Eng. Sci., 45, 387–401, 1990.

4. Ballal, G., N.R. Amundson and K. Zygourakis, “Pore-Structure Effectsin Catalytic Gasification of Coal Chars,” AIChE J., 34, 426–434, 1988.

5. Sotirchos, S.V. and N.R. Amundson, “Diffusion and Reaction in aChar Particle and in the Surrounding Gas Phase: A ContinuousModel,” I&EC Fund., 23, 191–201, 1984.

6. Amundson, N.R., “Reaction, Diffusion, and Elementary FunctionalAnalysis,” Diamond Jubilee Historical Review Volume, AIChE Symp.Ser. B235, 79, New York, 1983.

7. Rhee, H.K. and N.R. Amundson, “Analysis of MulticomponentSeparation by Displacement Development,” AIChE J., 28, 423–433,1982.

8. Editor, Journal of Preparative Chromatography, 1986–present.9. Editor, Reviews in Chemical Engineering, 1980–present.10. Editor, International Series on Chemical & Engineering Science

(Prentice-Hall, Inc.), 1956–present.

B.S. Chemical Engineering, University of MinnesotaM.S. Chemical Engineering, University of MinnesotaPh.D. Mathematics, University of Minnesota

Cullen Professor of Chemical Engineering; Professor of Mathematics


( )Email: [email protected]/faculty/balakotaiah/

RESEARCH INTERESTS:Dr. Balakotaiah’s research involvesthe mathematical modeling andanalysis of the interactionsbetween the transport processesand chemical reactions in varioussystems of engineering interest.The objective of the research is togain a fundamental understandingof the complex behavior of thesenonlinear systems and use thisunderstanding to solve somepractical problems.

Chemical ReactionEngineering

• Modeling and Analysis of Catalytic MonolithsMonolithic catalytic reactors are used for pollution reduction inautomobiles, oxidation of VOCs, power generation and removal of NOxfrom exhaust gases. Our work in this area includes the development ofmathematical models of these systems and analysis and simulation ofthe behavior under transient/periodic operation under various catalystcompositions and chemistries.

• Numerical Computation and Bifurcation Analysis of Homogeneousand Catalytic ReactorsReacting flows exhibit multiple solutions, oscillating flow, temperatureand concentration fields, spatial and temporal patterns, traveling frontsand exponentially thin boundary or internal (reaction) layers. Our workin this area includes the development and application of various analyticaland computational techniques (singularity, bifurcation, group theoriesand dynamical systems concepts) to explore and classify the differenttypes of behaviors in the parameter space.

• Spatio-Temporal Patterns in Catalytic Reactions and ReactorsChemical reactions carried out in open systems (reactors, living cells,neurons and complex living organisms) do not, in general, proceed toequilibrium. Instead, asymptotic states are established, at which the netrate of production of any species due to chemical transformations isexactly balanced by its net rate of removal either by flow or by moleculardiffusion. When autocatalysis is present the system may exhibit a varietyof asymptotic states such as periodic states in time, periodic states inspace (Turing patterns) and complex spatio-temporal behavior (chemicalchaos or turbulence). Our work in this area is aimed at identifying theconditions leading to pattern formation and the impact of transporteffects and kinetics on the observed patterns.

Multi-Phase Flows• Studies on Wavy Films in Gas-Liquid Two-Phase Flows

The surface of a freely falling liquid film can exhibit complex spatio-temporal behavior at arbitrarily small Reynolds number. Our work inthis area includes experimental, analytical and computational studiesof momentum, heat and mass transfer in wavy films under differentconditions (free falling, co and counter-current flows, horizontal andvertical flows and annular flows in microgravity).

• Studies on Gas-Liquid Two-Phase Flows through Packed-Beds underNormal and Microgravity ConditionsGas-liquid two-phase flows through packed-beds occur in many

normal gravity applications. In addition, this is identified as an enablingtechnology for long duration space travel. Our work in this area is aimedat understanding of the fundamental role of capillary and viscous forcesin controlling phase distribution and transport of momentum, heat andmass in gas-liquid flows through micro-channels and packed-beds undernormal and microgravity conditions.

HONORS/ACTIVITIES:2003 Award for Excellence in Research and Scholarship,

University of Houston2001 Ya. B. Zeldovich Award, The Dow Chemical Company1998–2001 Member, Modeling Technical Advisory Board, The

Dow Chemical Company1991, 1994, 1995 Best Applied Research Paper Award, AIChE South

Texas Section1991 E.W. Thiele Lectureship, University of Notre Dame

SELECTED PUBLICATIONS:1. Chakraborty S. and V. Balakotaiah, “Spatially Averaged Multiscale

Models for Chemical Reactors,” Advances in Chemical Engineering,Vol. 30, 2005.

2. Panga, M.K.R., R.R. Mudunuri and V. Balakotaiah, “Long-Wavelength Equation for Vertically Falling Films,” Physical Review E,71, 36310–1, 2005.

3. Sharma, M., M.P. Harold and V. Balakotaiah, “Analysis of PeriodicStorage and Reduction of NOx in Catalytic Monoliths,” Ind. Engng.Chem. Res., 44, 6264–6277, 2005.

4. Balakotaiah, V., “Hyperbolic Averaged Models for DescribingDispersion Effects in Chromatographs and Reactors,” K. J. Chem.Eng., 21, 318–328, 2004.

5. Chakraborty, S., V. Balakotaiah and A. Bidani, “Diffusing CapacityReexamined: Relative Roles of Diffusion and Reaction in Red CellUptake of O2, CO, CO2 and NO,” J. Appl. Physiology, 97,2284–2302, 2004.

6. Ramanathan, K., D.H. West and V. Balakotaiah, “Light-Off andCumulative Emissions in Catalytic Monoliths with Non-UniformCatalyst Loading,” Ind. Eng. Chem. Res., 43, 4668–4690, 2004.

7. Balakotaiah, V. and H.-C. Chang, “Hyperbolic Homogenized Modelsfor Thermal and Solutal Dispersion,” SIAM J. Appl. Math., 63,1231–1258, 2003.

8. Balakotaiah, V. and S. Chakraborty, “Averaging Theory and Low-Dimensional Models for Chemical Reactors and Reacting Flows,”Chem. Engng. Sci., 58, 4769–4786, 2003.

9. Motil, B.J., V. Balakotaiah and Y. Kamotani, “Gas-Liquid Two-PhaseFlows through Packed Beds in Microgravity,” AIChE J., 49,557–565, 2003.

10. Panga, M. and V. Balakotaiah, “Low-Dimensional Models forVertically Falling Viscous Films,” Physical Review Letters, 90, 15,154501–4, 2003.

11. West, D.H., Z. Jovonovic and V. Balakotaiah, “Experimental andTheoretical Investigation of the Mass Transfer Controlled Regime inCatalytic Monoliths,” Catalysis Today, 88, 3–16, 2003.

12. Balakotaiah, V. and D.H. West, “Shape Normalization and Analysis ofthe Mass Transfer Controlled Regime in Catalytic Monoliths,” Chem.Engng. Sci., 57, 1269–1286, 2002.

B.Tech Chemical Engineering, I.I.T., MadrasPh.D. Chemical Engineering, University of Houston

John and Rebecca Moores Professor of Chemical Engineering


Vemuri Balakotaiah

Adam T. Capitano ( )Email: [email protected]/faculty/capitano/

RESEARCH INTERESTS:My research focuses on the useof engineered biological tissuesto solve real world problems.In recent years, the veritableexplosion in the biologicalsciences have opened excitingnew possibilities for engineering.Improvements in cell culturetechnology as well as increasedunderstanding of cellularbiochemistry have allowed thecomplex interplay of cells to beharnessed to form morecomplicated structures. Withthe ability to control cell-cell

interactions, tissue cultures can be designed for purposes ranging from thesensing of chemical warfare agents to organ repair.

My previous work has shown that liver tissue culture can be used todetect the dangerous chemical compounds including aflatoxin B1 andmicrocystin-LR. A major research thrust of my research is to extend uponthis work to improve the sensitivity and specificity of this sensing platformto detect hostile chemical agents.

In addition to applications in sensing technology, a second research thrustinvolves the adaptation of three-dimensional fabrication technologies toconstruct tissues. This methodology will allow greater control over thelocation of cells and key matrix components than has been achieved withtraditional technologies. One important application will be for the tissueengineering of heart valves. Implants designed to replace heart valves—both mechanical devices and chemically altered animal tissue—have allfailed due to the complicated mix of mechanical and biological stresses thatheart valves are subject to. Our design philosophy will be to use modernthree-dimensional printing technologies to replicate the complex interactionsbetween the cells and their naturally occurring matrices. By duplicating theenvironment found in vivo, a system that will be able to withstand thestringent mechanical requirements will be produced.

HONORS/ACTIVITIES:2001 National Institute of Health National Research Service

Award, “Control of Hepatocyte Morphogenesis in a Perfused3-Dimensional Culture”

1994 Baer Research Fellowship, University of Michigan1994 Merck Outstanding Student Achievement Award, University

of Iowa1993 University of Iowa Electron Microscopy Training Grant1992 Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship

SELECTED PUBLICATIONS:1. Camp, J.P. and A.T. Capitano, “Size-Dependent Mobile Surface

Charge Model of Cell Electrophoresis,” Biophys. Chem., 113 (2),115–22, 2005.

2. Powers, M.J., K. Domansky, M.R. Kaazempur-Mofrad, A. Kalezi, A.Capitano, A. Upadhyaya, P. Kurzawski, K.E. Wack, D.B. Stolz, R.Kamm, and L.G. Griffith, “A Microfabricated Array Bioreactor forPerfused 3D Liver Culture,” Biotechnol. Bioeng., 78 (3), 257–69, 2002.

3. Capitano, A.T., A.M. Gabelnick and J.L. Gland, “CatalyticCyclopropane Hydrogenation in Pt(111) Using In Situ Soft X-RayMethods,” J. Phys. Chem. B., 104, 3337, 2000.

4. Gilbert, R.J., M.P. Hoffman, A.T. Capitano, and P.T. So, “Imaging ofThree-Dimensional Epithelial Architecture and Function in CulturedCaCO2A Monolayers with Two-Photon Excitation Microscopy,”Microsc. Res. Techniq., 51, 204, 2000.

5. Capitano, A.T. and J.L. Gland, “C-C Bond Activation inCyclopropane Induced by Gas-Phase Atomic Hydrogen on theNi(111) Surface,” J. Phys. Chem. B., 103, 2223, 1999.

6. Capitano, A.T. and J.L. Gland, “Desulfurization of the Ni(100)Surface Using Gas-Phase Hydrogen Radicals at 120 K,” J. Phys. Chem.B., 103, 6537, 1999.

7. Rodriguez, J.A., J. Dvorak, A.M. Gabelnick, A.T. Capitano, and J.L.Gland, “Adsorption of Thiophene on Surfaces of Clean and Ni-Promoted Molybdenum Sulfide,” Surf. Sci., 429, L462, 1999.

8. Capitano, A.T. and J.L. Gland, “Carbon-Carbon Bond Activation ofCyclopropane by subsurface Hydrogen on the Ni(111) surface,”Langmuir, 14, 1345, 1998.

9. Capitano, A.T. and J.L. Gland, “Gas-Phase Atomic Hydrogen InducedCarbon-Carbon Bond Activation in Cyclopropane on the Pt(111)Surface,” J. Phys. Chem. B., 102, 2562, 1998.

B.S. Chemistry, University of IowaPh.D. Chemistry, University of MichiganPost-Doctoral Associate, Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Assistant Professor of Chemical Engineering


( )Email: [email protected]/faculty/donnelly/

RESEARCH INTERESTS:My research interests are insemiconductor device materialsprocessing, and in particularplasma processing. Plasmas arepartially ionized gases, formed bythe dissipation of electrical power.In the semiconductor industry,plasmas are used to deposit andetch thin films for integratedcircuits, integrated optics, andmicro-electromechanical systems(MEMS). Plasmas are alsoincreasingly finding uses in bio-engineering. In plasma etching,bombardment by positive ions

normal to the wafer surface allows fine-line contact mask patterns to betransferred into thin films, making it possible to fabricate integrated circuitswith line widths of only a few hundred atoms. The continued need toextend this process to even smaller, nanometer-scale features dimensionsrequires ever improving knowledge of the plasma physics and chemistry,as well as new diagnostic techniques. My current plasma studies include:

Electron Temperatures and Energy DistributionsThe electron energy distribution is one of the most important quantitiesthat determines the kinetics of feed gas decomposition and ionization.Part of my ongoing research is to precisely measure this distribution withoptical emission spectroscopy for the many cases where conventional probemeasurements are not practical. The method analyzes optical emissionfrom traces of rare gases that are added to the plasma, and has been appliedto a variety of low pressure plasmas. In collaboration with D.J. Economou,this technique is being extended to a state-of-the-art dual frequency plasma.

Plasma Etching of New Microelectronic MaterialsHafnium oxide, a high dielectric constant material, is being evaluated bythe industry as a replacement for SiO2 as the dielectric layer below gateelectrodes in complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) fieldeffect transistors (FETs). Plasma etching, a necessary step for selectivepatterning of HfO2, can be satisfactorily achieved in a BCl3 plasma, butwe find that an undesirable boron residue is left behind on the underlyingsilicon substrate. We have studied this process, using x-ray photoelectronspectroscopy, and have shown that this residue can be successfully removedwith subsequent hydrogen plasma cleaning.

Plasma-Surface Interactions at a “Spinning Wall”We have begun studies of plasma chemistry on dynamic, reactive surfaces,using a novel spinning substrate method. The “spinning wall” is composedof the same material as the plasma chamber walls (e. g. alumina). Thecylinder is rapidly spun (up to 200,000 rpm) to bring the surface fromthe plasma to the analysis chamber in times as short as 200 microseconds.In the analysis chamber, a mass spectrometer observes short-lived speciesthat are desorbing, while Auger electron spectroscopy is used to detectspecies before they leave the surface. By varying the rotation frequency,surface reaction kinetics can be determined. Initial studies have focusedon O-atom recombination on alumina in oxygen plasmas.

Atmospheric Pressure Micro-DischargesIn collaboration with D.J. Economou, investigations have begun of thephysics, chemistry and applications of atmospheric pressure micro-discharges.Unlike conventional high pressure plasmas, these discharges operate in astable glow mode. We have constructed an optical emission spectroscopymicroscope to obtain spatially resolved measurements of gas temperature(through N2 rotational spectroscopy), electron density (from Starkbroadening of H-Balmer emission), and electric fields (through Starksplitting of H-Balmer emission). With R. Willson, we are also starting toexplore the use of micro-discharges for chemical and biological sensors.

Ion and Neutral Beam Nano-ProcessingAlso with D.J. Economou, new methods are being explored for nanometerscale patterning of electronic materials using parallel, focused ion beams(dubbed “nano-pantography”), as well as energetic, highly directionalneutral beams that circumvent the damage associated with plasma etching.

HONORS/ACTIVITIES:2003 Plasma Prize, American Vacuum Society Plasma Science and

Technology Division 1999–2001 Chair, American Vacuum Society Plasma Science and

Technology Division1997 Fellow, American Vacuum Society1995–2001 Sematech Plasma Diagnostics Process Technical Advisory

Board Member 1995–1998 Member, National Research Council’s Plasma Science

Committee1993 AT&T Bell Laboratories Distinguished Member of Technical

Staff Award1991 Tegal Corporation Thinker Award in Plasma Processing

SELECTED PUBLICATIONS:1. Wang, Q., I. Koleva, V.M. Donnelly, and D.J. Economou, “Spatially

Resolved Diagnostics of an Atmospheric Pressure Direct CurrentHelium Microplasma,” J. Phys. D.: Appl. Phys., 38, 2005.

2. Wang, C. and V.M. Donnelly, “Evaluation of the Effectiveness of H2

Plasmas in Removing Boron from Si after Etching of HfO2 Films inBCl3 Plasmas,” J. Vac. Sci. Technol. B, 23 (2), 2005.

3. Donnelly, V.M., “Plasma Electron Temperatures and Electron EnergyDistributions Measured by Trace Rare Gases Optical EmissionSpectroscopy,” J. Phys. D.: Appl. Phys., 37, R217, 2004.

4. Labelle, C.B., V.M. Donnelly, G.R. Bogart, R.L. Opila, and A.Kornblit, “Investigation of Fluorocarbon Plasma Deposition from c-C4F8 for Use as Passivation during Deep Silicon Etching,” J. Vac. Sci.Technol. A, 22, 2500, 2004.

5. “Optical Plasma Emission Spectroscopy of Etching Plasmas Used in Si-Based Semiconductor Processing,” Plasma Sources Sci. Technol., 11,A26, 2002.

B.A. Chemistry, LaSalle University, PhiladelphiaPh.D. Physical Chemistry, University of Pittsburgh

Professor of Chemical Engineering


Vincent M. Donnelly

Michael J. Economides ( )Email: [email protected]/faculty/economides/

RESEARCH INTERESTS:Michael J. Economides is one ofthe most instantly recognizablenames in the energy, petroleumand chemical industries for hisseminal contributions to theglobal articulation of the criticalissues and his significant rolein technology developmentand application.

Economides is a Professor at theCullen College of Engineering,University of Houston, teachingand conducting research inboth chemical and petroleumengineering. His areas of interestinclude petroleum productionand petroleum management, aparticular emphasis on naturalgas, natural gas transportation,LNG, CNG and processing,advances in process design of verycomplex operations, economicsand geopolitics.

Publications include authoring/co-authoring of 11 textbooks and about200 journal papers and chapters in books. His texts are used in almost allof the Petroleum Engineering departments in the United States, severaloverseas universities, and in the training programs of most of the majorcompanies in the petroleum industry.

He has had professional activities in over 70 countries, has taught coursesin 30 and has interacted with almost all major multinational and nationalpetroleum companies.

He advises Fortune 500 companies and national oil companies at thecountry level. He has written for numerous newspapers and specializedpublications and provides expert commentary for the major TV networksas well as CBC, CNBC, Bloomberg, Reuters and National Public Radio.He is co-author of the bestselling book, The Color Of Oil.

He gives a large number of lectures each year to industry and professionalgroups and he is often the keynote speaker in national conventions.

HONORS/ACTIVITIES:2004 Recipient of the Kapitsa Gold Medal of Honor and the

Albert Einstein Medal of Honor from the Russian Academyof Natural Sciences for “Contributions to the Field ofPetroleum Engineering”

2004 University of Kansas Hall of Fame2001 Doctor Honoris Causa, Petroleum and Gas University,

Ploeisti, Romania2000 Russian Academy of Natural Sciences, Inducted as Foreign

Member1997 Production Engineering Award, Society of Petroleum

Engineers1994 Distinguished Member, Society of Petroleum Engineers1994 Doctor Honoris Causa and Honorary Professor, The Gubkin

Russian State Academy of Oil and Gas, Moscow1991–1992 Distinguished Lecturer, Society of Petroleum Engineers1984 Outstanding Faculty Award, School of Mineral Industry,

University of Alaska1978 Sigma Xi (National Honor Research Society)1976–1978 Earl C. Anthony Scholar, University of California, Berkeley1974 Tau Beta Pi1969–1974 Fulbright Scholar, University of Kansas

• Managing Partner, Dr. Michael J. Economides, Consultants, Inc.• Editor-in-Chief, World Energy Monthly Review

SELECTED PUBLICATIONS:1. Economides, M.J., R. Oligney and P. Valkó, Unified Fracture Design—

Bridging the Gap Between Theory and Practice, Orsa Press, Alvin,Texas, 2002.

2. Economides, M.J. and K.G. Nolte, Reservoir Stimulation, ThirdEdition, Wiley, NY and Chichester, 2000.

3. Economides, M.J. and R. Oligney, The Color Of Oil—The History, theMoney and the Politics of the World’s Biggest Business, Round OakPublishing, Katy, Texas, 2000.

4. Economides, M.J., Horizontal Wells: Complex Well Architecture,IHRDC, Boston, 1998.

5. Economides, M.J., L.T. Watters and S. Dunn-Norman, Petroleum WellConstruction, Wiley, 1998.

6. Valkó, P. and M.J. Economides, Hydraulic Fracture Mechanics, Wiley,NY and Chichester, 1995.

7. Economides, M.J., A.D. Hill and C.A. Ehlig-Economides, PetroleumProduction Systems, Prentice Hall, NY, 1994.

8. Economides, M.J., Horizontal Wells: Completion and Stimulation,IHRDC, Boston, 1993.

9. Economides, M.J., A Practical Companion to Reservoir Stimulation,SES, Houston, 1991 and Elsevier, Amsterdam, 1991.

10. Economides, M.J. and K.G. Nolte, Reservoir Stimulation, SecondEdition, Prentice Hall, NY, 1989.

11. Economides, M.J. and K.G. Nolte, Reservoir Stimulation, SES,Houston, TX.

12. Economides, M.J. and P.O. Ungemach (Eds.), Applied Geothermics,John Wiley and Sons, 1987.

B.S. Chemical Engineering, University of KansasM.S. Chemical Engineering, University of KansasPh.D. Petroleum Engineering, Stanford University



( )Email: [email protected] www.chee.uh.edu/faculty/economou/

RESEARCH INTERESTS:Dr. Economou’s research focuseson plasma science and technologyas applied to etching anddeposition of thin solid films formicroelectronic device fabrication,nanotechnology, and surfacemodification of materials (e.g.,biomaterials). A combinedmodeling-simulation-experimentalprogram is underway to developmathematical models of plasmaprocesses based on fundamentalprinciples of transport phenomena,reaction kinetics and electro-magnetic field distribution.Experimentally validated modelsare used to aid in optimization andcontrol of existing processes orthe design of new ones. Optimaldesign of experiments is also ofinterest. The projects describedbelow are in collaboration withV.M. Donnelly.

Plasma Modeling andPlasma DiagnosticsContinuum and particle (PIC,Monte Carlo) simulations areused to understand plasma flow

in complex reactor geometries. Plasma “molding” over complex surfacetopography is studied, especially the energy and angular distribution of ionsbombarding features with length scales of the order of the plasma sheath.Mathematical models are complemented with experimental measurementswith emphasis on real-time non-intrusive spatially-resolved optical diagnostics,as well as ion flux, energy and angular distribution measurements.

NanopantographyThis project deals with the fabrication of orderly arrays of nanofeatures(few nm length scale) with pre-defined shapes and patterns over large areas(10s of cm2). These can find application in growth of orderly arrays of singewall carbon nanotubes, nanoelectronics, and nanocatalysis. Simulations ofion extraction from a plasma and ion beam focusing on the wafer to formnanofeatures by etching or deposition are used to guide experimentation.

Micro-Discharge Plasma ReactorsMiniaturized (~100s of microns) high pressure (~1 atm) micro-dischargesare investigated for sensor and microelectromechanical systems (MEMS)applications. Spatially resolved (5 micron resolution) diagnostics andmodeling aid in understanding micro-discharge operation to facilitateapplications of these micro-reactors.

Processing with Energetic Neutral Beams As device dimensions continue to shrink, charging damage due to ions andelectrons bombarding the surface of devices during plasma processing hasbecome a serious concern. We are investigating sources of energetic (100s

of eV), high flux, collimated neutral beams (immune to charging problems)for anisotropic etching and deposition of thin films. Ions are extractedfrom a plasma and are neutralized through a grid with high aspect ratioholes. The efficiency of neutralization and neutral beam characterization(flux, energy distribution) are of particular interest.

HONORS/ACTIVITIES:2003 Fellow, American Vacuum Society2003 Outstanding Teaching Award, Cullen College of

Engineering, University of Houston2002 Sigma Xi Research Award1999 Senior Faculty Research Excellence Award, Cullen

College of Engineering, University of Houston1996–Present John and Rebecca Moores Professor9/95, 10/99, 8/03 Guest co-Editor: IEEE Trans. Plasma Science, Special

Issues1998–Present International Editorial Board, Materials Science in

Semiconductor Processing

SELECTED PUBLICATIONS:1. Wang, Q., I. Koleva, V.M. Donnelly, and D.J. Economou, “Spatially

Resolved Diagnostics of a Direct Current Atmospheric PressureHelium Microplasma,” J. Phys. D: Appl. Phys., 38, 1690–1697, 2005.

2. Nam, S.K. and D.J. Economou, “Two-Dimensional Simulation of aMiniaturized Inductively Coupled Plasma,” J. Appl. Phys., 95,2272–2277, 2004.

3. Kim, C.-K. and D.J. Economou, “Plasma Molding over SurfaceTopography: Energy and Angular Distributions of Ions Extracted outof Large Holes,” J. Appl. Phys., 91, 2594–2603, 2002.

4. Kim, D. and D.J. Economou, “Plasma Molding over SurfaceTopography: Simulation of Ion Flow and Energy and AngularDistributions over Steps in RF High Density Plasmas,” IEEE Trans.Plasma Sci., 30 (5), 2048–2058, 2002.

5. Panagopoulos, T., V. Midha, D. Kim, and D.J. Economou, “Three-Dimensional Simulation of Inductively Coupled Plasma Reactors,” J.Appl. Phys., 91, 2687–2696, 2002.

6. Midha, V. and D.J. Economou, “Dynamics of an Ion-Ion Plasmaunder Radio Frequency Bias,” J. Appl. Phys., 90, 1102, 2001.

7. Panda, S., D.J. Economou and L. Chen, “Anisotropic Etching ofPolymer Thin Films by High Energy (100s of eV) Oxygen AtomNeutral Beams,” J. Vac. Sci. Technol., A19, 398–404, 2001.

8. Economou, D.J., “Modeling and Simulation of Plasma EtchingReactors for Microelectronics,” Thin Solid Films, 365, 348–367, 2000.

9. Kaganovich, I., D.J. Economou, B.N. Ramamurthi, and V. Midha,“Negative Ion Density Fronts during Ignition and Extinction of Plasmasin Electronegative Gases,” Phys. Rev. Lett., 84, 1918–1921, 2000.

10. Kubota, N.A. and D.J. Economou, “A Molecular DynamicsSimulation of Ultrathin Oxide Films on Silicon: Growth by ThermalO Atoms and Sputtering by 100 eV Ar+ Ions,” IEEE Trans. PlasmaSci., 27 (5), 1416–1425, 1999.

Diploma, Chemical Engineering, National Technical University of AthensPh.D. Chemical Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

John and Rebecca Moores Professor; Associate Chair of Chemical Engineering; Director, Plasma Processing Laboratory


Demetre J. Economou

Power Deposition in Inductively Coupled Plasma

Raymond W. Flumerfelt ( )Email: [email protected]/faculty/flumerfelt/

RESEARCH INTERESTS:In recent years we have beendeveloping fundamentalknowledge and processtechnologies for controlledstructure processing of cellularmaterials. We have beenparticularly interested in theproduction of lightweightpolymer foams and composites.Utilizing new generationpolyolefins, polyimides andbiodegradable polymers, and byaltering the basic processes ofnucleation, bubble growth andfilm stability, it is possible toobtain a full spectrum oflightweight composites withvaried temperature, strength,electrical and other properties.These materials have avariety of applications inthe consumer, electronic, andconstruction industries.

Current projects and interests include:• Development of next generation simulators for free expansion and

extrusion processing of cellular materials• High pressure extrusion processing and the development and use of

environmentally benign blowing agents• Enhancement of nucleation in low surface energy materials through

heterogeneous nucleators derived from plasma surface treatments• Rheological behavior of base polymers with dissolved blowing agents• Advanced modeling and analysis of viscoelastic film drainage and stability• Replacement of stable polymer foam systems with biodegradable products

for packaging and consumer applications

HONORS/ACTIVITIES:2001 NASA Honor Medal for Civilian Public Service2000 Elizabeth D. Rockwell Chair1993 Engineering Nominee, Outstanding University

Administrator, Texas A&M University1989 Outstanding Professor, Chemical Engineering, Texas A&M

University1984 Visiting NSF Scholar/Professor, Japan1980, 1982 Best Fundamental Paper Awards, AICHE, STS1972–1990 Outstanding Teacher Citations1963–1966 Walter P. Murphy Procter & Gamble Fellow

• Honorary: Tau Beta Pi, Omega Chi Epsilon, Sigma Xi• Professional AIChE, ACS, AIME SPE, Society of Rheology• National Board, Southeastern Consortium for Minorities in Engineering

(SECME)• Texas Engineering Deans Council• TSPE Education Advisory Committee

SELECTED PUBLICATIONS:1. Shafi, M.A. and R.W. Flumerfelt, “Initial Bubble Growth in Polymer

Foam Processes,” Chem. Eng. Sci., 52 (4), 627–33, 1997.2. Shafi, M.A., K. Joshi and R.W. Flumerfelt, “Bubble Size Distributions

in Freely Expanded Polymer Foams,” Chem. Eng. Sci., 52 (4),635–44, 1997.

3. Su, Y.Z. and R.W. Flumerfelt, “A Continuum Approach to MicroscopicSurface Tension for the n-Alkanes,” Industrial & Engineering ChemistryResearch, 35 (10), 3399–3402, 1997.

4. Lee, J.G. and R.W. Flumerfelt, “A Refined Approach to BubbleNucleation and Polymer Foam Processing: Dissolved Gas and ClusterSize Effects,” J. Colloid & Interface Science, 184, 335–48, 1996.

5. Shafi, M.A., J.G. Lee and R.W. Flumerfelt, “Prediction of CellularStructure in Free Expansion Polymer Foaming Processes,” PolymerEngineering & Science, 36 (14), 1950–59, 1996.

6. Su, Y.Z. and R.W. Flumerfelt, “The Effect of Dissolved Gas on FoamNucleation Rates in Polymer Melts,” Annu. Tech. Conf.—Society ofPlastic Engineers, 54th, 1937–40, 1996.

7. Lee, J.G. and R.W. Flumerfelt, “Nitrogen Solubilities in Low DensityPolyethylene at High Temperatures and Pressures,” J. Appl. PolymerSci., 58, 2213–19, 1995.

B.S. Chemical Engineering, Lamar UniversityM.S Chemical Engineering, Northwestern UniversityPh.D. Chemical Engineering, Northwestern University

Elizabeth D. Rockwell Endowed Chair, Dean of Engineering; Professor of Chemical Engineering


( )Email: [email protected]/faculty/harold/

RESEARCH INTERESTS:Our research is in the area ofcatalytic engineering with a focuson energy and environmentalapplications. We carry outfundamental experimentscomplemented by modelingand simulation to elucidateinteractions between the catalyticchemistry and transport processesencountered within the catalyticreactor. Our experimental facilitiesspan ultrahigh vacuum reactors(TAP® reactor), bench-scalereactors, catalyst synthesis andinorganic membrane and

characterization equipment, and a heavy-duty chassis dynamometer facility.Some current projects include:

NOx Reduction in Lean Burn Engine ExhaustWe are investigating the catalytic reduction of NOx to nitrogen in theoxidizing atmosphere of lean burn and diesel vehicles. One approachinvolves the use of an adsorptive reactor in which the NOx is trapped as anitrite/nitrate on an rare earth oxide and then reduced by the intermittentfeed of a reductant. This is a complex system involving the abatement of akey pollutant contained in a time-varying feed utilizing a periodic catalyticprocess. The challenge is to achieve high NOx conversion with minimalfuel penalty while sustaining long catalyst life. We are carrying outbench-scale reactor and transient kinetics studies, microkinetic mechanistic-based modeling, and reactor modeling and simulations to determineoptimal reactor designs, catalyst formulations, and operating strategies.

Particulate Soot Filtration and Oxidation from Diesel VehiclesAnother challenging environmental problem is the removal of particulatesoot from the exhaust of diesel vehicles. This requires multi-functionalcatalytic filtration devices in which the soot is first captured then oxidizedWe are conducting experiments to quantify the soot oxidation kinetics andignition, filtration characteristics in wall-flow monoliths, and regeneration(soot oxidation) features. We are also evaluating the spatio-temporal featuresof soot ignition and combustion within the monolith filter. Of particularinterest is to synergize the soot filtration and oxidation with NOx reductionin a multi-functional structured reactor.

High Temperature Inorganic Membrane ReactorsWe also are researching catalytic reactors that combine reaction withselective separation of a product or distributed feed of reactants. We utilizesol-gel and plating techniques to synthesis thin films of both nanoporousoxides and dense metals that have permselective features. One applicationis the catalytic generation of high purity hydrogen for use in fuel cellsystems. We are developing a high temperature fuel processor that combineshydrocarbon reforming with hydrogen separation in a compact reactor.This single step hydrogen producer replaces the cumbersome three-stepprocess of reforming/water gas shift/preferential oxidation.

HONORS/ACTIVITIES:2005–Present Chair, AIChE Publication Committee1999 Best Applied Paper award, Southwest Section of AIChE1999 Chair, Catalysis and Reaction Engineering Division of AIChE1999 Invited Participant in National Academy of Engineering

“Frontiers of Engineering Symposium”1997–2000 Research Management, DuPont Company1991 Visiting Research Fellow, University of Twente, The

Netherlands1990 Outstanding Junior Faculty Award, College of Engineering,

University of Massachusetts

SELECTED PUBLICATIONS:1. Kabin, K.S., P. Khanna, R.L. Muncrief, V. Medhekar, and M.P.

Harold, “Monolith and TAP Reactor Studies of NOX Storage onPt/BaO/Al2O3: Elucidating the Mechanistic Pathways and Roles of Pt,”Catalysis Today, in press, 2005.

2. Lattner, J.R. and M.P. Harold, “Comparison of Methanol Based FuelProcessors for PEM Fuel Cell Systems,” Appl. Catalysis B.Environmental, 56, 149–169, 2005.

3. Sharma, M., M.P. Harold and V. Balakotaiah, “Analysis of PeriodicStorage and Reduction in Catalytic Monoliths,” Ind. Engng. Chem.Res., 44, 6264–6277, 2005.

4. Bhattacharya, M., M.P. Harold and V. Balakotaiah, “Low DimensionalModels for Stirred Tank Reactors,” Chem. Engng. Sci., 59,5587–5596, 2004.

5. Bhattacharya, M., M.P. Harold and V. Balakotaiah, “Mass TransferCoefficients in Washcoated Monoliths,” AIChE J., 50, 2939–2955,2004.

6. Bhattacharya, M., M.P. Harold and V. Balakotaiah, “ShapeNormalization for Catalytic Monoliths,” Chem. Engng. Sci., 59,3737–3766, 2004.

7. Kabin, K., R. Muncrief and M.P. Harold, “NOx Storage andReduction in a Pt/BaO/Alumina Washcoated Monolith Catalyst,”Catalysis Today, 96, 79–89, 2004.

8. Kabin, K., R. Muncrief, M.P. Harold, and Y. Li, “Dynamics of Storageand Reaction in a Monolith Reactor: Lean NOx Reduction,” Chem.Engng. Sci., 59, 5319–5327, 2004.

9. Lattner, J.R. and M.P. Harold, “Comparison of Conventional andMembrane Reactor Fuel Processors for Hydrocarbon-Based PEM FuelCell Systems,” Inter. J. of Hydrogen Energy, 29, 393–417, 2004.

10. Muncrief, R., K. Kabin and M.P. Harold, “NOx Storage andReduction with Propylene on Pt/BaO/Alumina,” AIChE J., 50,2526–2540, 2004.

11. Muncrief, R., P. Khanna, K. Kabin, and M.P. Harold, “Mechanisticand Kinetic Studies of NOx Storage and Reduction on Pt/BaO/Al2O3,”Catal. Today, 98, 393–402, 2004.

12. Harold, M.P., B. Nair and G. Kolios, “Hydrogen Generation in a PdMembrane Fuel Processor: Assessment of Methanol-Based ReactionSystems,” Chemical Engineering Science, 58, 2551–2571, 2003.

13. Harold, M.P. and B. Ogunnaike, “Process Engineering in the EvolvingChemical Industry,” AIChE J., 46, 2123–2127, 2000.

B.S. Chemical Engineering, Pennsylvania State UniversityPh.D. Chemical Engineering, University of Houston

Dow Chair Professor of Chemical Engineering; Department Chair


Michael P. Harold

Ernest J. Henley ( )Email: [email protected]/faculty/henley/

RESEARCH INTERESTS:• Reliability Engineering and

Risk Assessment• Biomedical Engineering

HONORS/ACTIVITIES:2002 American Society for Engineering Education CACHE

Award, Chemical Engineering Division2001 Who’s Who in America2001 Who’s Who in the World1998 McGraw-Hill Award for Outstanding Personal Achievement

in Chemical Engineering1993 Fellow of the American Institute of Chemists and the

American Institute of Chemical Engineers1993 US-Japan Ministry of Science Award1988–Present Co-editor, Critical Reviews of Physical Medicine and

Rehabilitation, Begell Publishing Co., New York

SELECTED PUBLICATIONS:1. Seader, J.D. and E.J. Henley, Separation Process Principles (2nd edi-

tion), John Wiley & Sons, in press, 2005.2. Seader, J.D. and E.J. Henley, Separation Process Design, John Wiley &

Sons, 1998.3. Henley, E.J., Legal and Regulatory Problems for American Business,

Kinokunia Press, Tokyo, 1997. In Japanese; transl. by Dr. H.Kumamoto.

4. Kumamoto, H. and E.J. Henley, Probabilistic Risk-Analysis andManagement for Engineers and Scientists (2nd edition), IEEE Press,1996. ISBN 0-7803-1004-7.

PATENTS (US ONLY):3,760,800, 4,498,462, 4,214,576, 4,893,626, 5,069,908

B.S. Chemical Engineering, University of DelawareM.S. Chemical Engineering, Columbia UniversityPh.D. Engineering Science, Columbia University

Professor Emeritus of Chemical Engineering


( )Email: [email protected]/faculty/krishnamoorti/

RESEARCH INTERESTS:The goals of my research are todevelop materials with tailoredproperties through a detailedunderstanding and manipulationof molecular level structure,synthesis and most uniquelyprocessing methodologies.While the importance ofstructure-property correlationsfor materials has been recognized,the importance of processingconditions on the evolution ofstructure and hence properties inthe case of soft materials have notbeen fully understood.

Resulting from the long-chainnature, high viscosities, lowdiffusion coefficients and rapidvitrification or crystallization,the structure and properties

of polymeric materials are significantly affected by their processing. Weare pursuing a detailed research program, in collaboration with researchersin industry and national laboratories, to address the role of processing onthe structure and properties of multi-phase polymers including polymerblends, block copolymers and microemulsions. Specific research focuseson understanding traditional polyolefin and polydiene materials anddeveloping amphiphilic block, graft and star polymers for a number oftechnological applications.

The potential for the use of highly anisotropic nanoparticles such as layeredsilicates and carbon nanotubes dispersed in polymeric matrices promisesthe ability to develop combinations of physical, mechanical and thermalproperties while not increasing weight and thus a new paradigm in materialstechnology. We have focused our efforts in developing fundamentalunderstanding of the dispersion of the nanoparticles, characterizationmethodologies that span from the nano to macro length scales, developcorrelations to properties and understand how processing can lead tounique microstructures and properties. Specific research focuses on lightweighting automobile parts, developing super-strong fibers, strengthenedelastomers, materials for fuel cells, longer life lithium ion batteries andimproved materials for tissue replacement.

Drug and gene delivery methods are increasingly using bio-inspiredmembranes as carriers and targeting vehicles. We are currently involved incharacterizing and modeling the ability of polymeric materials to providespatio-temporal stability for such bio-membranes using a range of novelexperimental and molecular modeling techniques. Further, we arecollaborating with a number of researchers from the medical communityin Houston towards the synthesis, characterization and development ofdelivery vehicles using phospholipids and their polymeric analogs.

HONORS/ACTIVITIES:2005 Award for Excellence in Research and Scholarship,

University of Houston2001–2006 Editorial Board, Journal of Polymer Science Part B: Polymer

Physics2001 Award for Excellence in Research and Scholarship,

University of Houston2000 Junior Faculty Research Award, Cullen College of

Engineering, University of Houston1999 NSF Career Award, Division of Materials Research

SELECTED PUBLICATIONS:1. Mitchell, C.A. and R. Krishnamoorti, “Nonisothermal Crystallization

Kinetics of In-Situ Polymerized Poly(e-caprolactone) Functionalized-SWNT Nanocomposites,” Polymer, 46, 8796–8804, 2005.

2. Shi, X., J.L. Hudson, P.P. Spicer, J.M. Tour, R. Krishnamoorti, andA.G. Mikos, “Rheological Behavior and Mechanical Characterizationof Injectable Poly(propylene fumarate)/Single-Walled CarbonNanotube Composites for Bone Tissue Engineering,” Nanotechnology,16, S531–S538, 2005.

3. Xu, L., S. Reeder, M. Thopasridharan, J. Ren, D.A. Shipp, and R.Krishnamoorti, “Structure and Melt Rheology of Polystyrene BasedLayered Silicate Nanocomposites,” Nanotechnology, 16, S514–S521,2005.

4. Yurekli, K., E. Conley and R. Krishnamoorti, “Effect of Laponite anda Non-Ionic Polymer on the Absorption Character of Cationic DyeSolutions,” Langmuir, 21, 5825–5830, 2005.

5. Lincoln, D.M., R.A. Vaia and R. Krishnamoorti, “MorphologyDevelopment in Isothermally Crystallized Nylon 6/MontmorilloniteNancomposites,” Macromolecules, 37, 4554–4561, 2004.

6. Yurekli K., A. Karim, E.J. Amis, and R. Krishnamoorti, “Influence ofLayered Silicates on the Phase Separated Morphology of PS-PVMEBlends,” Macromolecules, 37, 507–515, 2004.

7. Yurekli, K. and R. Krishnamoorti, “Thermodynamic Interactions inBlends of Poly(4 tert butyl styrene) and Polyisoprene by Small AngleNeutron Scattering,” J. Polym. Sci. Part B: Polym. Phys., 42,3204–3217, 2004.

8. Yurekli, K., C.A. Mitchell and R. Krishnamoorti, “Small Angle NeutronScattering from Surfactant Assisted Aqueous Dispersions of CarbonNanotubes,” J. American Chemical Society, 126, 9902–9903, 2004.

9. Kuppa, V., S. Menakanit, R. Krishnamoorti, and E. Manias, “SimulationInsights on the Structure of Nanoscopically Confined Poly(ethyleneoxide),” J. Polym. Sci. Part B: Polym. Phys., 41, 3285–3298, 2003.

10. Karim, A., K. Yurekli, C. Meredith, E. Amis, and R. Krishnamoorti,“Combinational Methods for Polymer Materials Science: PhaseBehavior of Nanocomposite Blend Films,” Polymer Engineering andScience, 42, 1836–1840, 2002.

11. Mitchell, C.A., J.L. Bahr, S. Arepalli, J.M. Tour, and R.Krishnamoorti, “Dispersion of Carbon Nanotubes in Polystyrene,”Macromolecules, 35, 8825–8830, 2002.

B.Tech Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, MadrasPh.D. Chemical Engineering, Princeton University

Professor of Chemical Engineering;Professor of Chemistry;Associate Dean of Research


Ramanan Krishnamoorti

Dan Luss ( )Email: [email protected]/faculty/luss/

RESEARCH INTERESTS:Chemical ReactionEngineeringSeveral projects of Dr. Luss’research group are associated withthe dynamic features of chemicallyreacting systems, such as reverse-flow reactors, hot-spot formationin packed bed reactors andthe dynamics of polyolefinpolymerization via metallocenecatalysts. Dr. Luss’ group alsostudies the use of membranereactors to produce synthesis gas,the formation of electrical andmagnetic fields during high-temperature solid reactions andnovel method for synthesis ofadvanced ceramic materials.

Temperature Overheatingduring PolymerizationOlefin polymerization isconducted in fluidized bedreactor. Local overheating of thegrowing polymer particles causes

the formation of polymer sheets and requires reactor shutdown. The causeof this highly undesired behavior is not yet understood. We are conductingboth theoretical and experimental studies aimed at gaining an understandingof this behavior. This information is essential for circumventing its occurrence.

Hot Spots Formation in Packed-Bed ReactorsThe presence of hot spots in packed bed reactors can have an adverseimpact on its performance and lead to safety problems. It is yet notestablished what causes the evolution of these hot zones. We are conductingan experimental and theoretical studies of this undesired behavior. Thisknowledge is essential for developing control and operation proceduresthat circumvent formation of these hot zones.

Production of Synthesis Gas in Membrane ReactorsA membrane reactor enables a direct production of synthesis gas from airand methane, avoiding the need of nitrogen separation. Our group hasdeveloped a novel membrane reactor for this process and is trying tooptimize its operation.

Novel Synthesis Method of Complex OxidesComplex oxides have many industrial applications, such as componentsof fuel cells, superconducting materials, etc. We have developed a novel,economic method for synthesis of such oxides. We conduct research todetermine the behavioral features of the process that are needed forits scale-up.

Electrical and Magnetic Field Formation during HighTemperature Solid ReactionsWe conduct experimental and theoretical studies aimed at Gaining anunderstanding of the formation of electrical and magnetic fields duringhigh temperature combustion of various metals.

HONORS/ACTIVITIES:2005 Founders Award for Outstanding Contributions to the Field

of Chemical Engineering, AIChE2003 Sartorius India’s Chemcon Distinguished Speaker Award1996 Research Award by the Alexander von Humboldt

Foundation, Germany1990 Fellow, AIChE1986 Wilhelm Award, AIChE1985 ASEE Chemical Engineering Division Lectureship Award1984 National Academy of Engineering1979 Professional Progress Award, AIChE1972 Allan P. Colburn Award, AIChE

SELECTED PUBLICATIONS:1. Filimonov, I.A. and D. Luss, “High-Temperature Oxidation of a Metal

Particle: Nonisothermal Model,” AIChE J., 51, 1521, 2005.2. Luss, D. and M. Sheintuch, “Spatiotemporal Patterns in Catalytic

Systems,” Cat. Today, 105, 254, 2005.3. Sundarram, S., B. Marwaha and D. Luss, “Global-Coupling Induced

Temperature Patterns on Top of Packed-Bed Reactors,” Chem. Eng.Sci., 60, 6805, 2005.

4. Filimonov, I.A. and D. Luss, “Formation of Electrical Potential duringthe Oxidation of a Metal Particle,” AIChE J., 50, 2287, 2004.

5. Martirosyan, K.S., J.R. Claycomb, J.H. Miller, Jr., and D. Luss,“Generation of the Transient Electrical and Spontaneous MagneticFields by Solid State Combustion,” J. Appl. Phys., 96, 4632, 2004.

6. Martirosyan, K.S., I.A. Filimonov and D. Luss, “Electric FieldGeneration by Gas-Solid Combustion,” AIChE J., 50, 241, 2004.

7. Marwaha, B., S. Sunderram and D. Luss, “Dynamics of Hot Spots onTop of Packed-Bed Reactors,” Chem. Eng. Sci., 59, 5569, 2004.

8. Marwaha, B., S. Sundarram and D. Luss, “Dynamics of TransversalHot Zones in Shallow Packed-Bed Reactors,” J. Phys. Chem., 108, 2004.

9. Song, H. and D. Luss, “Bounds on Operating Conditions Leading toMelting during Olefin Polymerization,” Ind. Eng. Chem. Res., 43,270, 2004.

10. Song, H. and D. Luss, “Impact of Initiation and Deactivation onMelting during Gas-Phase Olefin Polymerization,” Ind. Eng. Chem.Res., 43, 4789, 2004.

11. Martirosyan, K.S., J.R. Claycomb, G. Gogoshin, R.A. Yarbrough, J.H.Miller, Jr., and D. Luss, “Spontaneous Magnetization Generated bySpin, Pulsating and Planar Combustion Synthesis,” J. Appl. Phys., 93,9329, 2003.

12. Martirosyan, K.S., I.A. Filimonov, M.D. Nersesyan, and D. Luss,“Electric Field Formation during Combustion of Single MetalParticles,” J. Electro. Chem. Soc., 150, J9, 2003.

13. Marwaha, B. and D. Luss, “Hot Zones Formation in Packed-BedReactors,” Chem. Eng. Sci., 58, 733, 2003.

14. Yong, Ok Jeong and D. Luss, “Pollutant Destruction in a Reverse-FlowChromatographic Reactor,” Chem. Eng. Sci., 58, 1095, 2003.

B.S. Chemical Engineering, Technion, IsraelM.S. Chemical Engineering, Technion, IsraelPh.D. Chemical Engineering, University of Minnesota

Cullen Professor of Chemical Engineering


( )Email: [email protected]/faculty/mohanty/

RESEARCH INTERESTS:Dr. Mohanty’s research focuses ontransport of simple and complexfluids in complex microstructuredmaterials for applications inenergy, environment andbiotechnology. Many naturallyoccurring materials such assandstones, carbonates, aquifers,human bones and tissues aremicrostructured. Many fluidsused in these systems arenanostructured. This research isaimed at imaging these structures,understanding the physicsof transport, relating themicrostructures to transportcoefficients and developingnew materials for enhancedtargeted transport.

Transport in Microstructured MediaMicroscopy, microtomography,

CT scanning and NMR are used to image microporous materials and thetransport within such materials. Lattice-Boltzmann method, Navier-Stokessolver and network algorithms are being developed to model transport inthese media.

Improved Oil RecoveryOil extraction by miscible flooding with supercritical fluids is studied. Theinteraction between flow and phase behavior is being probed. Numericaltechniques are being developed for compositional scale-up.

Colloids and Complex FluidsFluids containing surfactants and polymers are being developed for stablefoams, low tension micellar solutions and micelle-enhanced separationprocesses. Kinetics of hydrate dissociation is being studied for potentialproduction of natural gas from subsea hydrates.

Functional BiomaterialsMaterials are being developed for controlled and targeted drug delivery.The relation between the molecular interaction, material nanostructure andtransport/interfacial properties are being probed.

HONORS/ACTIVITIES:2004 Outstanding Professor Award, Omega Chi Epsilon

Honor Society2004 Sigma Xi Faculty Research Award, University of Houston2003–2004 Outstanding Teacher Award, Cullen College of Engineering,

University of Houston2003–2004 Senior Faculty Research Award, Cullen College of

Engineering, University of Houston2003 Chemical Weekly’s Chemcon Distinguished Speaker Award,

Indian Institute of Chemical Engineers

2002 Chairman, Gordon Conference on Transport in Permeable Media

2001–2003 Editor, SPE Journal

SELECTED PUBLICATIONS:1. App, J.F. and K.K. Mohanty, “Relative Permeability Estimation for Rich

Gas-Condensate Reservoirs,”Transport in Porous Media, in press, 2005. 2. Bhambri, P. and K.K. Mohanty, “Streamline Simulation of Four-Phase

WAG Processes,” SPE 96940, Proceedings of SPE ATCE, Dallas,Oct. 9–12, 2005.

3. Dao, E.K., E. Lewis and K.K. Mohanty, “Multicontact MiscibleFlooding in a High-Pressure Quarter Five-Spot Model,” SPE 97918,Proceedings of SPE ATCE, Dallas, Oct. 9–12, 2005.

4. Kumar, K., E. Dao and K.K. Mohanty, “AFM Study of MineralWettability with Reservoir Oils,” J. of Coll. Interf. Sci., 289,206–217, 2005.

5. Kumar, K., E. Dao and K.K. Mohanty, “Atomic Force Microscopy Studyof Wettability Alteration,” SPE 93009, Proceedings of SPE InternationalSymposium on Oil Field Chemistry, Woodlands, Feb. 2–5, 2005.

6. Ogunlana, D. and K.K. Mohanty, “Compositional Upscaling inFractured Reservoirs during Gas Recycling,” JPSE, 46, 1–21, 2005.

7. Sun, X. and K.K. Mohanty, “Estimating Flow Functions duringDrainage Using Genetic Algorithm,” SPEJ, in press, 2005.

8. Sun, X. and K.K. Mohanty, “Simulation of Methane HydrateReservoirs,” SPE 93015, Proceedings of SPE Reservoir SimulationSymposium, Woodlands, Jan. 31–Feb. 2, 2005.

9. Sun, X., N. Nanchary and K.K. Mohanty, “1-D Modeling of HydrateDepressurization in Porous Media,” Transport in Porous Media, 58,315–338, 2005.

10. Adibhatla, B., K.K. Mohanty, P. Berger, and C. Lee, “Effect ofSurfactants on Wettability of Near-Wellbore Regions of GasReservoirs,” Proceedings of 8th International Symposium on ReservoirWettability, Houston, May 16–18, 2004.

11. Gautam, P.S. and K.K. Mohanty, “Mass Transfer of Volatile OrganicCarbons through Aqueous Foams,” J. of Coll. Interf. Sci., 273,611–625, 2004.

12. Gautam, P.S. and K.K. Mohanty, “Matrix-Fracture Transfer throughCountercurrent Imbibition in Presence of Fracture Fluid Flow,”Transport in Porous Media, 55, 309–337, 2004.

13. Gautam, P.S. and K.K. Mohanty, “Novel Aqueous Foams forSuppressing VOC Emission,” Environ. Sci. Technol., 38 (4),2721–2728, 2004.

14. Hidajat, I., K.K. Mohanty, M. Flaum, and G. Hirasaki, “Study ofVuggy Carbonates Using NMR & X-Ray CT Scanning,” SPEREE, 7(5), 365–377, 2004.

15. Seethepalli, A., B. Adibhatla and K.K. Mohanty, “PhysicochemicalInteractions during Surfactant Flooding of Carbonate Reservoirs,” SPEJ., 9 (4), 411–418, 2004.

16. Tu, R., K.K. Mohanty and M. Tirrell, “Liposomal Targeting throughPeptide-Amphiphile Functionalization,” American PharmaceuticalReview, 7 (2), 36–41, 2004.

17. Li, F., C. Vipulanandan and K.K. Mohanty, “Microemulsion andSolution Approaches to Nanoparticle Production for Degradation ofTrichloroethylene,” Colloids & Surfaces A, 223, 103–112, 2003.

B.S. Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, KanpurPh.D. Chemical Engineering, University of Minnesota

Professor of Chemical Engineering; Director, Graduate Studies


Kishore K. Mohanty

Michael Nikolaou ( )Email: [email protected]/faculty/nikolaou/

RESEARCH INTERESTS:Hard to define yet easy torecognize, intelligence as a featurein the operation of engineeredsystems is highly desirable andincreasingly possible. Whetherone deals with a chemical plant,an offshore oil-productionplatform, a food-processingfacility, a microchip makingfactory, or a medicated humanpatient, intelligent operation of asystem offers distinct advantages,ranging from high return oninvestment to improved quality,reliability, and safety. Computersoftware and hardware (from asimple chip to a full computer)and their interaction with humansare at the heart of intelligentoperations. The ubiquitousconcept of feedback is the basicunderlying principle. While thecomputer is the “brains”, allelements of a feedback loop(including sensors, actuators, andtransmission/communicationlines) are important and haveexperienced unprecedentedadvancement in recent years. Inthis context, our research aims atthe development of:• new fundamental methods for

the solution of broad classes ofintelligent operations problems,and

• solutions for specific problemsof real-world importance.

There are several tools ofquantitative analysis employed

by our group, including system modeling and identification, optimization,statistics, and feedback control. In addition, domain expertise in the variousfields where we conduct our research is of paramount importance. As aconsequence, our work has a strong interdisciplinary flavor and oftenbuilds on collaboration with investigators from other fields. Solutionsproposed by our work are tested using computer simulations, laboratoryexperiments, or industrial-site tests. Examples of on-going research areasinclude the following:• Oil and Gas Production Systems: What hardware and software technologies

can be used in the field to safely maximize return-on-investment?• Semiconductor Manufacturing Tools and Processes: How can equipment

be designed and operated that ensures consistent production of high-quality microchips?

• Effective Development and Use of Antibiotics: How can new antibioticsand clinical practices be designed that maximize the killing effect ofantibiotics on pathogenic bacteria while minimizing toxicity forhuman patients?

Our collaboration with field practitioners is an essential element in ourquest for fundamental solutions to problems or relevance to the realworld. Many of our students conduct part of their research at industrialcollaborator sites—both in the Houston area and elsewhere—a practicethat offers many clear benefits to all parties involved. Over 15 Ph.D.students graduating from our group have landed successful careers in diverseindustrial areas, such as oil and gas, refining, chemicals, semiconductor,engineering design, and food processing, as well as in academia.

HONORS/ACTIVITIES:1996–1997 TEES Fellow, Texas A&M University1993–1994 Professor of the Year, Student Chapter of AIChE, Texas

A&M University1993 TEES Select Young Faculty (Junior TEES Fellow), Texas

A&M University1992 Dow Excellence in Teaching Award, Texas A&M University

SELECTED PUBLICATIONS:1. Nikolaou, M. and V.H. Tam, “A New Modeling Approach to the

Effect of Antimicrobial Agents on Heterogeneous MicrobialPopulations,” Journal of Mathematical Biology, to appear, 2005.

2. Saputelli, L., M. Nikolaou and M.J. Economides, “Real-TimeReservoir Management: A Multi-Scale Adaptive Optimization andControl Approach,” Computational Geosciences, Special Issue onModeling, to appear, 2005.

3. Tam, V.H., A.N. Schilling and M. Nikolaou, “Modelling Time-KillStudies to Discern the Pharmacodynamics of Meropenem,” Journal ofAntimicrobial Chemotherapy, 55 (5), 699–706, 2005.

4. Misra, P. and M. Nikolaou, “Input Design for Model OrderDetermination in Subspace Identification,” AICHE Journal, 49 (8),2124–2132, 2003.

5. Nikolaou, M. and P. Misra, “Linear Control of Nonlinear Processes:Recent Developments and Future Directions,” Computers & ChemicalEngineering, 27 (8–9), 1043–1059, 2003.

6. Eker, S.A. and M. Nikolaou, “Linear Control of Nonlinear Systems:Interplay between Nonlinearity and Feedback,” AICHE Journal, 48(9), 1957–1980, 2002.

7. Shouche, M.S., H. Genceli and M. Nikolaou, “Effect of On-LineOptimization Techniques on Model Predictive Control andIdentification (MPCI),” Computers & Chemical Engineering, 26 (9),1241–1252, 2002.

8. Zhang, H.Y., M. Nikolaou and Y. Peng, “Development of a Data-Driven Dynamic Model for a Plasma Etching Reactor,” Journal ofVacuum Science & Technology B, 20 (3), 891–901, 2002.

Diploma, Chemical Engineering, National Technical University, Athens, GreecePh.D. Chemical Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles

Associate Professor of Chemical Engineering


Optimal Water Floodingof Hydrocarbon

Reservoir

First PrincipalComponent of

Plasma Etch Rate

Pharmacodynamic Index of an Antibiotic

( )Email: [email protected]/faculty/richardson/

RESEARCH INTERESTS:Professor Richardson’s researchinvolves experimentalheterogeneous catalysis as relatedto industrial catalytic processes.Topics include:• Heterogeneous catalysis and

catalytic processes, reactorengineering, catalyst preparationand characterization, andcatalyst design

• Solar energy, solar receiverdesign and solar relatedchemical processes

• Catalytic processes for thedestruction of hazardous wastes

• Gas to liquid conversionprocesses

• High-temperature super-conductivity and processingof ceramic superconductors

• Solid oxide fuel cells and ceramic membrane reactors• Combinatorial catalysis • Combustion catalysts• Fuel processors for fuel cells

HONORS/ACTIVITIES:2004 Best Fundamental Paper Award, South Texas Section, AIChE1999 Best Applied Paper Award, South Texas Section, AIChE1997 Abraham Dukler Distinguished Faculty Award, Cullen

College of Engineering Alumni, University of Houston1993 Senior Faculty Research Award, Cullen College of

Engineering, University of Houston1989 Best Applied Paper Award, South Texas Section, AIChE

SELECTED PUBLICATIONS:1. Peng, Y. and J.T. Richardson, “Properties of Ceramic Foam Catalyst

Supports: One Dimensional and Two-Dimensional Heat TransferCorrelations,” Appl. Catal. A: Gen., 266, 235, 2004.

2. Richardson, J.T., R.M. Scates and M.V. Twigg, “X-Ray DiffractionStudy of the Hydrogen Reduction of NiO/α-Al2O3 Steam ReformingCatalysts,” Appl. Catal. A: Gen., 267, 35, 2004.

3. Shafiei, M. and J.T. Richardson, “Dechlorination of ChlorinatedHydrocarbons by Catalytic Steam Reforming,” Appl. Catal. B:Environ., 54, 211, 2004.

4. Richardson, J.T., M. Garrait and J.-K. Hung, “Carbon DioxideReforming with Rh and Pt-Re Catalysts Dispersed on Ceramic FoamSupports,” Appl. Catal. A: Gen., 255, 69, 2003.

5. Richardson, J.T., D. Remue and J.-K. Hung, “Properties of CeramicFoam Catalyst Supports: Mass and Heat Transfer,” Appl. Catal. A:Gen., 250, 319, 2003.

6. Richardson, J.T., R. Scates and M.V. Twigg, “X-Ray Diffraction Studyof Nickel Oxide Reduction by Hydrogen,” Appl. Catal. A: Gen., 246,137, 2003.

7. Avakyan, P.B., M.D. Nersesyan, A.G. Merzhanov, and J.T. Richardson,“Continuous SHS Technology and Properties of Soft MagneticFerrites,” Proceedings of VI International Symposium on of SHS, 17,Haifa, Israel, 2002.

8. Nersesyan, M.D., J.T. Ritchie, I.A. Filimov, J.T. Richardson, and D.Luss, “Electric Fields Produced by High-Temperature MetalOxidation,” J. Electrochem. Soc., 149, J11–17, 2002.

9. Twigg, M.V. and J.T. Richardson, “Theory and Application of CeramicFoam Catalysts,” IChemE Trans. Part A—Chem. Eng. Res. and Design,80, 183, 2002.

10. McMinn, T.E., F.C. Moates and J.T. Richardson, “Catalytic Steam-Reforming of Chlorocarbons: Catalyst Deactivation,” Appl. Catal. B:Environ., 31, 93, 2001.

11. Nersesyan, M.D., J.R. Claycomb, J.T. Ritchie, J.H. Miller, Jr., J.T.Richardson, and D. Luss, “Electric and Magnetic Fields Generated bySHS,” J. Mat. Syn. and Proc., 9, 63, 2001.

12. Ritchie, J.T., J.T. Richardson and D. Luss, “Ceramic MembraneReactor for Synthesis Gas Production,” AIChE J., 47, 2092, 2001.

13. Coute, N. and J.T. Richardson, “Catalytic Steam Reforming ofChlorocarbons: Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs),” Appl. Catal. B:Environ., 26, 265, 2000.

14. Coute, N. and J.T. Richardson, “Steam Reforming of Chlorocarbons:Chlorinated Aromatics,” Appl. Catal. B: Environ., 26, 217, 2000.

15. Ming, Q., M.D. Nersesyan, J.T. Richardson, D. Luss, and A.A.Shiryaev, “A New Route to Synthesize La1-xSrxMnO3,” J. Mat. Res., 35,3599–3606, 2000.

16. Richardson, J.T., Y. Peng and D. Remue, “Properties of Ceramic FoamCatalyst Supports: Pressure Drop,” Appl. Catal. A: Gen., 204, 2000.

17. Twigg, M.V. and J.T. Richardson, “Effects of Alumina Incorporationin Coprecipitated NiO-Al2O3 Catalysts,” Appl. Catal. A: Gen., 190,61, 2000.

18. Intarajang, K. and J.T. Richardson, “Catalytic Steam Reforming ofChlorocarbons: Catalyst Comparisons,” Appl. Catal. B: Environ., 22,27, 1999.

19. Moates, F.C., T.E. McMinn and J.T. Richardson, “A Radial Reactor forTrichloroethylene Steam Reforming,” AIChE J., 45, 2411, 1999.

20. Coute, N., J.D. Ortego, Jr., J.T. Richardson, and M.V. Twigg,“Catalytic Steam Reforming of Chlorocarbons: Trichloroethane,Trichloroethylene and Perchloroethylene,” Appl. Catal. B: Environ., 19,175, 1998.

21. Richardson, J.T., Principles of Catalyst Development, Plenum Press, NewYork, 1989.

B.A. Physics, Rice UniversityM.A. Physics/Chemistry, Rice UniversityPh.D. Physics/Chemistry, Rice University



James T. Richardson

Peter Strasser ( )Email: [email protected]/faculty/strasser/

RESEARCH INTERESTS:Our research activities focus onelectrocatalysis of low-temperaturefuel cells, catalytic processes forhydrogen production, as well asbio-electrochemistry.

A fuel cell is an electrochemicaldevice that converts the chemicalenergy of fuels, such as hydrogen,methanol or ethanol, directly tousable energy using electrocatalyticprocesses rather then combustion.In particular, low-temperaturePolymer Electrolyte MembraneFuel Cells (PEMFCs) are oneof the most promising newtechnologies in the search formore efficient ways to powervehicles or portable electronics.Yet, in order to compete withtoday’s combustion engine orbattery technologies, a numberof technical challenges need to beaddressed. Our research interestsin low-temperature fuel cells focuson novel synthesis techniques,characterization, half-cell/fuelcell testing, and mechanisticunderstanding of multi-component alloy electrocatalystswith reduced Pt content. Incollaboration with researchgroups from theory departmentsand synchrotron facilities, ourgroup strives to link catalystdevelopment activities rangingfrom theoretical prediction andmechanistic study on the atomiclevel, to catalyst synthesis/characterization in technologicallyrelevant formats, all the way tohalf-cell electrochemical screeningand single cell testing of novelcatalyst systems in MembraneElectrode Assemblies (MEA).Areas of particular interest arestructure-activity relationships,exploration of new core-shellcatalyst concepts, and corrosionand other degradationmechanisms of alloy systemsin fuel cell environments.

In the area of environmental catalysis, our research interests aim at structure-property relationships of new catalytic materials and processes towardgenerating clean hydrogen from oxygenated hydrocarbon feeds. Our workfocuses on synthesis, ex-situ and in-situ characterization of novel suitablecatalyst systems for a number of different feed streams available in today’sprocess industry.

A parallel research effort extends to the investigation and characterizationof electrochemical charge transfer processes at the interface betweensolid-state materials and biological soft matter such as enzymes. We explorethe interaction and the electron transfer properties between nanoscaleelectrodes and redox enzymes with the goal to fabricate efficient androbust biochemical energy conversion devices (bio fuel cell). Researchwork will include synthetic strategies toward nanostructured inorganicelectrodes, exploration of the way enzymes and nanoparticles interact,and the engineering of the enzyme-electrode interface to maximize chargetransfer efficiency.

HONORS/ACTIVITIES:2002–2004 Senior Staff Scientist, Symyx Technologies, Inc., Santa Clara2000–2001 Postdoctoral Fellow, Symyx Technologies, Inc., Santa Clara1999 Otto-Hahn-Medal of the Max-Planck-Society 1996 Visiting Research Scholarship, Sony Corporation, Japan 1992–1993 Visiting Research Scholarship, Pisa University, Italy 1991–1992 Visiting Research Scholarship, Stanford University 1988–1995 German National Fellowship Foundation

SELECTED PUBLICATIONS:1. Strasser, P. et al., “Platinum-Copper Fuel Cell Electrocatalyst,” PCT

Int. Appl., Symyx Technologies, Inc., WO 2005/024982, 2005.2. Strasser, P. et al., “Platinum-Nickel-Iron Fuel Cell Electrocatalyst,”

PCT Int. Appl., Symyx Technologies, Inc., WO 2005/034266, 2005.3. Hagemeyer, A., P. Strasser and A. Volpe, editors, High-Throughput

Screening in Chemical Catalysis—Strategies, Technologies andApplications, Wiley-VCH, New York, 2004.

4. Strasser, P., Q. Fan, M. Devenney, and W.H. Weinberg,“Combinatorial and High Throughput Screening of New Fuel CellElectrocatalysts,” High Throughput Screening in Chemical Catalysis—Strategies, Technologies and Applications, A. Hagemeyer et al., ed.,Wiley-VCH, 2004.

5. Strasser, P. et al., “Fuel Cell Electrocatalyst of Pt-Mo-Ni/Fe/Zn/W,”PCT Int. Appl., Symyx Technologies, Inc., WO 2003/071621, 2003.

6. Strasser, P. et al., “Fuel Cell Electrocatalyst of Pt-Rh-W/Sn/Cu/Mo,”PCT Int. Appl., Symyx Technologies, Inc., WO 2003/081702, 2003.

7. Strasser, P., Q. Fan, M. Devenney, W.H. Weinberg, P. Liu, and J.K.Norskov, “Experimental and Theoretical Predictive High ThroughputScreening of Materials—A Comparative Study of Search Strategies forNew Fuel Cell Anode Catalysts,” J. Phys. Chem. B, 107, 11013, 2003.

8. Strasser, P., “Electrochemistry in Self-Organized States,” Interface 9,46, 2000.

9. Strasser, P., J. Christoph, W.F. Lin, M. Eiswirth, G. Ertl, and J.L.Hudson, “Standing Wave Oscillations in an Electrocatalytic Reaction,”J. Phys .Chem. A, 104, 1854, 2000.

10. Christoph, J., P. Strasser, M. Eiswirth, and G. Ertl, “Remote Triggeringof Waves in an Electrocatalytic System,” Science, 284, 291, 1999.

B.S. Chemistry, University of Tuebingen, Germany M.S. Chemistry, University of Tuebingen, GermanyPh.D. Physical Chemistry, Fritz-Haber-Institute of the Max-Planck-Society, Berlin, Germany

Assistant Professor of Chemical Engineering


Fuel Cell Principle

PEMFC V-I Characteristic

Pt Alloy Ball Model

Pt Alloy Nanoparticle

( )Email: [email protected]/faculty/vekilov/

RESEARCH INTERESTS:The focus of our research is onthe phase transitions occurringin solutions of biological macro-molecules. These include theformation of a variety of solidphases, such as polymers, fibrils,crystals and precipitates, as wellas liquid and gel-like phases. Westart from the intermolecularinteractions that underlie thesolution thermodynamics,through the phase diagrams andthe kinetics of nucleation of thephase transitions, though theinteractions between the phases,

all the way to the mechanism of the growthof the new, in most cases, condensed phaseon the molecular, capillary, and transportlength scales. We zoom in on the couplingbetween the transport and kinetic processesin a phase transition, the instabilities arisingin these non-linear systems and on thesearch of mechanism to control theseinstabilities. A parallel research efforthighlighted the similarities between thebiological and inorganic systems. We relateour findings to the solution of problems inthe areas of protein condensation disease,e.g., the sickle cell anemia, structural biologyor materials science and nanotechnology.

The major areas of investigation are:• Protein intermolecular interactions and

phase diagrams• Nucleation mechanisms of ordered and

disordered phases• Mesoscopic protein phases: rationale and consequences• Design of protein nano-arrays• Physico-chemical aspects of sickle-cell anemia• Protein crystallization• Mechanisms of crystallization of membrane proteins

HONORS/ACTIVITIES:2005 Executive Committee Member, American Crystal Growth

Association—West2005 Vice-Chair, Gordon Conference on Thin Film and Crystal

Growth Mechanisms2004 Executive Council Member, International Organization for

Biological Crystallization 2004 Lead Organizer, Symposium Q: Nucleation—Dynamics and

Structures, 2004 Spring MRS Meeting, San Francisco,California

2003 Member, U.S. National Committee for Crystallography2002 DuPont Research Award

2002 Program Committee, Ninth International Conference onCrystallization of Biological Macromolecules (ICCBM-9),Jena, Germany

2002 Topic Editor, Crystal Growth and Design2001 Foundation Research and Creative Achievement Award,

University of Alabama, Huntsville2001 Lead Organizer, Symposium R: Morphology and Dynamics

of Crystal Surfaces in Molecular and Colloid Systems, 2001Spring Materials Research Society Meeting, San Francisco,California

2000 Editorial Board, Eighth International Conference onCrystallization of Biological Macromolecules (ICCBM-8)Sandestin, Florida

1995 International Union of Crystallography Young ScientistAward, Sixth International Conference on Crystallization ofBiological Macromolecules, Hiroshima, Japan

1993 Research Award, International Human Frontiers ScienceProgram

1992 Research Award, Science and Technology Agency,Government of Japan

1990 First Prize, Annual Research Session, Institute ofCrystallography, Russian Academy Science

1986 Shubnikov Prize, Russian Academy of Sciences1984 Gold Medal, Ministry of Highest Education of the USSR1980 Diploma, Twelfth International Chemical Olympiad, Linz,

Austria

SELECTED PUBLICATIONS:1. Galkin, O. and P.G. Vekilov, “Mechanisms of Homogeneous Nucleation

of Polymers of Sickle Cell Anemia Hemoglobin in Deoxy-State,” J.Mol. Biol., 336, 43–59, 2004.

2. Qutub, Y., I. Reviakine, C. Maxwell, J. Navarro, E.M. Landau, andP.G. Vekilov, Journal of Molecular Biology, 343, 1243–1254, 2004.

3. Petsev, D.N., K. Chen, O. Gliko, and P.G. Vekilov, “Diffusion-LimitedKinetics of the Solution-Solid Phase Transition of MolecularSubstances,” Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA, 100, 792–796, 2003.

4. Galkin, O., K. Chen, R.L. Nagel, R.E. Hirsch, and P.G. Vekilov,“Liquid-Liquid Separation in Solutions of Normal and Sickle CellHemoglobin,” Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA, 99, 8479–8483, 2002.

5. Galkin, O. and P.G. Vekilov, “Are Nucleation Kinetics of ProteinCrystals Similar to those of Liquid Droplets?” J. Am. Chem. Soc., 122,156–163, 2000.

6. Galkin, O. and P.G. Vekilov, “Control of Protein Crystal Nucleationaround the Metastable Liquid-Liquid Phase Boundary,” Proc. Natl.Acad. Sci. USA, 97, 6277–6281, 2000.

7. Petsev, D.N. and P.G. Vekilov, “Evidence for Non-DLVO HydrationInteractions in Solutions of the Protein Apoferritin,” Phys. Rev. Lett.,84, 1339–1342, 2000.

8. Yau, S.-T., D.N. Petsev, B.R. Thomas, and P.G. Vekilov, “Molecular-Level Thermodynamic and Kinetic Parameters for the Self-Assembly ofApoferritin Molecules into Crystals,” J. Mol. Biol., 303, 667–678, 2000.

9. Yau, S.-T., B.R. Thomas and P.G. Vekilov, “Molecular Mechanismsof Crystallization and Defect Formation,” Phys. Rev. Lett., 85,353–356, 2000.

10. Yau, S.-T. and P.G. Vekilov, “Quasi-Planar Nucleus Structure inApoferritin Crystallization,” Nature, 406, 494–497, 2000.

M.S. Chemistry, Moscow State UniversityPh.D. Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences

Associate Professor of Chemical Engineering


Peter G. Vekilov

Richard C. Willson ( )Email: [email protected]/faculty/willson/

RESEARCH INTERESTS:Dr. Willson’s research focuses onmolecular recognition, and itsapplications in bioseparations andmolecular diagnostics.

Biomolecular RecognitionWe’re interested in the structuraldeterminants of molecularrecognition in complexes ofproteins with recognition agentssuch as monoclonal antibodiesand aptamers. Our primarytechniques are expression,mutagenesis, fluorescenceanisotropy (kinetics) and titrationcalorimetry. Topics of currentinterest include the recognitionof hen egg lysozyme by a“homologous series” of antibodiesdiffering in combining site rigidityand cross-reactivity (withS. Smith-Gill of NIH), and thebiophysical chemistry ofaptamer/protein recognition(with A. Ellington of UT-Austin).

Biomolecular Separations• New Chemistries for

DNA/RNA PurificationMetal-chelate affinity, also known as Immobilized Metal AffinityChromatography, is famous for its use in the purification of hexa-histidine tagged recombinant proteins, as well as large-scale purificationof pharmaceutical proteins. We have found that the same chemistrybinds purines in single-stranded RNA and DNA (which is quite usefulfor capturing RNA, polyA mRNA, primers, etc). We have combined theideas of condensation conformational control and DNA metal affinityinto a selective renaturation scheme in which genomic DNA is endowedwith kinetically-trapped single-stranded “purification handles” thatallow it to be captured by metal chelates while plasmid DNA renaturescompletely and does not bind. This method allows remarkable (million-fold) selectivity between plasmid (e.g., a DNA vaccine) and contaminatinggenomic DNA despite their chemical similarity.

• Nanostructured AdsorbentsConventional bioseparations adsorbents (e.g., ion exchangers) arederivitized with functional groups, randomly distributed over theirsurface area. This produces a functional polyclonality or heterogeneity,in that there are some places where several charges are close together, andmany where a smaller number are clustered. So the binding propertiesare heterogeneous, and the selectivity for purification (e.g., of proteinpharmaceuticals) or analysis (e.g., proteomics) is inherently limited.We are controlling the distribution of charges on a nanometer scale byimmobilizing groups of charges all at once. This reduces the heterogeneityof adsorption, and confers interesting new specificity for proteinsdisplaying clusters of charges on their surfaces. We are now also exploringnanoclustered metal-chelates for DNA/RNA separations.

Molecular Diagnostics and Sensors• Ribosomal RNA-Based Identification of Bacteria and Viruses

One project, with UH’s George Fox (co-discoverer of the Archae), isfunded by NASA’s National Space Biomedical Research Institute.This project centers on the development of molecular labels andcomputationally-derived probes for organisms of interest to crew healthin long-duration space flight. Other applications include terrestrialinfectious disease diagnosis, and biodefense. The Fox lab identifiessignature sequences associated with different regions of the phylogenetictree, and we believe an array of probes to these can allow approximateclassification of nearly any organism even if it has not been seen before.This last part is a substantial advance, and the work has been written upin The Scientist, Lancet Infectious Diseases, etc.

• Genome-Based Identification of MicroorganismsAs hundreds of microbial, viral, and metazoan genome sequences becomeavailable, it is increasingly possible to use this base of knowledge todesign DNA probe/primer sets for organisms of interest known not tointeract with background sequences (e.g., environmental background,human sequences, etc.). This HSARPA-funded project, with George Foxand Yuriy Fofanov of UH Computer Science, relies on the remarkableprowess of the Fofanov group in identifying sequences of interest byexhaustive calculation.

• Nano- and Micro-Scale Molecular LabelsMany methods in diagnostics, genomic technology, and proteomicsrely upon the sensitive detection of labels added to target or reportermolecules, to facilitate the detection of an analyte or a binding event.With Paul Ruchhoeft of UH, we are making 1-micron cubic retroreflectors(small-scale analogs of the lunar retroreflectors which are possibly themost detectable objects ever produced by mankind) for use as labels andin one-step assays based on self-assembly. With Dmitri Litvinov of UH(formerly Seagate) we are seeking to adapt the GMR technology whichhas radically improved data-storage hard disk drive performance, toproduce a biosensor array of extremely high feature density and number(millions), capable of single-molecule detection (using 50 nm magneticparticle labels) and magnetic pull-off “melting curves” for each spot toensure high data quality.

HONORS/ACTIVITIES:2005 Senior Faculty Research Excellence Award, Cullen College of

Engineering, University of Houston 2004–Present President, International Society for Molecular Recognition2001 van Lanen Award, ACS 1999–Present Member/Past Chair, UH Intellectual Property Committee1999 Chair, Division of Biochemical Technology, American

Chemical Society1999 Elected Fellow, American Institute of Medical and Biological

Engineering1997–2002 Shell/UH Interdisciplinary Scholar 1993 3M Young Faculty Award, Life Sciences Division1990–1995 NSF Presidential Young Investigator

Editorial Boards: Journal of Molecular Recognition, Journal of BiologicalPhysics and Chemistry, Biotechnology and Applied Biochemistry, BiotechnologyProgress, Faculty of 1000 (Structural Biology)

B.S. Chemical Engineering, CaltechM.S. Chemical Engineering, CaltechPh.D. Chemical Engineering, MITPost-Doc Biochemistry, MIT

Professor of Chemical Engineering;Professor of Biochemical & Biophysical Sciences


( )Email: [email protected]/faculty/bidani/

RESEARCH INTERESTS:Mechanisms of Cell Ion andpH RegulationThis project involves measure-ments of cell pH, Ca2+, cellvolume and membrane potentialusing fluorescent probes in alveolarmacrophages, important lungimmune cells. These experimentalstudies are analyzed usingdetailed biophysical models ofcell and ion regulation.

Kinetics of Respiratory BurstThis project involves developmentof mathematical models of

NADPH-mediated superoxide anion release and nitric oxide productionin macrophages. Experimental measurements are used to analyze theunderlying rate-limiting cellular biochemical and biophysical processes.

Organ Support Therapies in Critical IllnessThis project in collaboration with colleagues at Rice, at UTMB (Galveston)and at LSU (Shreveport) involves the development of innovative therapiesto support heart, lung and renal function in critically ill patients. Complexmathematical models of device and whole body hemodynamics and gasexchange are used to analyze data in experimental animals.

Inhalation ToxicologyThis project involves the analyses of the transport and reaction processesinvolved in the uptake of inhaled toxicants such as ozone and nitrogendioxide. This allows the prediction of site-specific toxic gas uptake andassociated cellular and lung toxicity.

Microvascular and Whole Body Acid-Base BalanceThis project involves the modeling of reaction and transport processesinvolved in gas exchange and acid-base balance in blood and tissues. Thesestudies are useful in analyzing abnormalities in critically ill patients withmulti-organ failure.

HONORS/ACTIVITIES:2005 Fellow, Association of Clinical Scientists2004 Editorial Board, American Society of Artificial Internal

Organs (ASAIO)1991 American Society of Clinical Investigation1991 Fellow, American College of Critical Care Medicine1990 Fellow, American College of Chest Physicians1990 Southern Society for Clinical Investigation1988–1999 Editorial Board: Journal of Applied Physiology1986 Clinician-Scientist Award, American Heart Association

(Greater Los Angeles Affiliate)1981 J.B. Kass Award for Excellence in Research, UTMB1981 W.L. Marr Award for Excellence in Medicine, UTMB

SELECTED PUBLICATIONS:1. Amini, B., A. Bidani, J.B. Zwischenberger, and J.W. Clark, Jr., “A

Model of the Rat Phrenic Motor Neuron,” IEEE TransactionsBiomedical Engineering, 51, 1103–1114, 2004.

2. Chakraborty, S., V. Balakotaiah and A. Bidani, “Theoretical Analysis ofDiffusing Capacity of the Red Blood Cell,” Journal of AppliedPhysiology, in press, 2004.

3. Lu, K., J.W. Clark, Jr., F.H. Ghorbel, C.S. Robertson, D.L. Ware, J.B.Zwischenberger, and A. Bidani, “Cerebral Autoregulation and GasExchange Studied Using a Human Cardiopulmonary Model,” Am. J.Physiol. Heart Circ. Physiol., 286 (2), H584–601, 2004.

4. Luo, C., J.W. Clark, T.A. Heming, and A. Bidani, “A SimplifiedModel for V-ATPase H+ Extrusion,” IEEE Trans. on Nano-Bioscience,in press, 2004.

5. Ng, A., T.A. Heming and A. Bidani, “Innate Host Defense of theLung: Effects of Lung-Lining Fluid pH,” Lung, in press, 2004.

6. Heming, T.A. and A. Bidani, “Effects of Plasmalemmal V-ATPaseActivity on Plasma Membrane Potential of Resident AlveolarMacrophages,” Lung, 181, 121–135, 2003.

7. Heming, T.A. and A. Bidani, “Intracellular pH Regulation in U937Human Monocytes: Roles of V-ATPase and Na+/H+ Exchange,”Immunobiol., 207, 1–8, 2003.

8. Heming, T.A., N.N. Bulayeva and A. Bidani, “Cell Alkalosis ElevatesCytosolic Calcium in Rabbit Resident Macrophages,” Clin. Sci.(Lond)., 105, 21–28, 2003.

9. Jayroe, J.B., D. Wang, D. Deyo, S.K. Alpard, A. Bidani, and J.B.Zwischenberger, “The Effect of Augmented Hemodynamics on BloodFlow during Arteriovenous Carbon Dioxide Removal,” ASAIO J., 49(1), 30–4, 2003.

10. Heming, T.A. and A. Bidani, “Plasmalemmal H+ Extruders inMammalian Alveolar Macrophages,” Comp. Biochem. Physiol., 133,143–150, 2002.

11. Lu, K., J.W. Clark, Jr., F.H. Ghorbel, D.L. Ware, and A. Bidani, “AClosed-Loop Model of Human Gas Exchange,” Second JointEMBS/BMES Conference, 1535–1536, 2002.

12. Qian, J., J.W. Clark, Jr., K. Lu, F.H. Ghorbel, J.B. Zwiscshenberger,and A. Bidani, “A Closed-Loop Model of the Ovine CardiovascularSystem,” Second Joint EMBS/BMES Conference, 1585–1586, 2002.

13. Conrad, S.A., J.B. Zwischenberger, L.R. Grier, S.K. Alpard, and A.Bidani, “Total Extracorporeal Arteriovenous Carbon Dioxide Removalin Acute Respiratory Failure: A Phase I Clinical Study,” Intensive CareMed., 27, 1340–1351, 2001.

14. Heming, T.A., S.K. Dave, D.M. Tuazon, A.K. Chopra, J.W. Peterson,and A. Bidani, “Effects of Extracellular pH on Tumour NecrosisFactor-α Production by Resident Alveolar Macrophages,” Clin. Sci.(Lond)., 101, 267–274, 2001.

15. Lu, K., J.W. Clark, Jr., F.H. Ghorbel, D.L. Ware, and A. Bidani, “AHuman Cardiopulmonary System Model Applied to the Analysis ofthe Valsalva Maneuver,” Am. J. Physiol. (Heart Circ Physi-ol), 281,H2661–H2679, 2001.

16. Zwischenberger, J.B., S.K. Alpard, W. Tao, D. Deyo, and A. Bidani,“Percutaneous Extracorporeal Arteriovenous Carbon Dioxide Removal(AVCO2R) Improves Survival in Respiratory Distress Syndrome(RDS): A Prospective Randomized Outcomes Study in Adult Sheep,”J. Thorac. Cardiovasc. Surg., 121, 542–551, 2001.

B.S. Chemical Engineering, Punjab UniversityPh.D. Chemical Engineering, University of HoustonM.D., University of Texas Medical Branch

Professor of Chemical Engineering; John S. Dunn Professor of Biomedical Engineering;Professor, Department of Medicine, UT Health Science Center


Akhil Bidani

James M. Briggs ( )Email: [email protected]/People/Briggs/Briggs.html

RESEARCH INTERESTS:Computer Simulation ofBiomoleculesActivities currently underwayinvolve the use and developmentof computer programs on high-performance computers to studythe kinetic and thermodynamicproperties of enzymes andreceptors. Application areasinclude structural and mechanisticstudies and inhibitor design forHIV-1 integrase, botulinum andanthrax toxins, alanine racemases,and beta-tubulin. Docking from3D structural databases, molecular

mechanics, molecular and Brownian dynamics, electrostatics, quantummechanics, QSAR and other methods are used in the work.

HIV-1 Integrase Inhibitor DesignThe HIV-1 integrase splices the viral genome into the host DNA therebytricking the host cell machinery into making viral proteins. This enzyme,for which no good inhibitors are known, represents the third of the mainenzyme targets in HIV. Work on this project is performed in collaborationwith five other research groups (x-ray crystallography, virology, organicsynthesis, computational chemistry and marine biology) that represent acomplete structure-based inhibitor design cycle/team. Early results on thisproject are providing some clues about the detailed structure of the activesite. Initial small molecule docking studies have revealed hot spots for newfunctional group types that are being incorporated into newly designedlead compounds.

Re-Engineering of Enzyme Substrate Specificity In addition to the “drug design” projects, we have interests in thereengineering of enzyme substrate specificity, and in a number of basicscience areas centering on electrostatic properties of biomolecules. We areinvolved in a collaboration with biochemists at the University of Houstonto assist in the rational redesign of the substrate binding and proofreadingpockets for the leucyl tRNA synthetase. Use of the redesigned enzyme willallow non-natural amino acids to be more easily incorporated into proteinsduring protein biosynthesis. The redesigned proteins will have biomedical,engineering, and technology applications.

HONORS/ACTIVITIES:2004 Teaching Excellence Award, College of Natural Sciences and

Mathematics, University of Houston2004–Present University of Houston Training Director, W.M. Keck Center

for Computational and Structural Biology, Rice University2003–Present Associate Director, Institute for Molecular Design,

University of Houston2003–Present Honorary Member, Golden Key International Honor Society2000 Special Recognition for Outstanding Service to Students

with Disabilities, University of Houston1999–2000 Oak Ridge Associated Universities New Faculty

Development Award1998–Present Member, Institute for Molecular Design, University of

Houston1998–Present Member, W.M. Keck Center for Computational and

Structural Biology, Rice University

SELECTED PUBLICATIONS:1. Adesokan, A.A., V.A. Roberts, K.W. Lee, R.D. Lins, and J.M. Briggs,

“Prediction of HIV-1 Integrase/viral DNA Interactions in the CatalyticDomain by Fast Molecular Docking,” J. Med. Chem., 47, 821–8, 2004.

2. Lee, K.W. and J.M. Briggs, “Molecular Modeling Study of the EditingActive Site of Escherichia coli Leucyl-tRNA Synthetase: Two AminoAcid Binding Sites in the editing domain,” Proteins: Str. FunctionBioinformatics, 54, 693–704, 2004.

3. Mustata, G.I., A. Brigo and J.M. Briggs, “HIV-1 IntegrasePharmacophore Model Derived from Diverse Classes of Inhibitors,”Bioorg. Med. Chem. Lett., 14, 1447–1454, 2004.

4. Mustata, G.I. and J.M. Briggs, “Cluster Analysis of Water Molecules inAlanine Racemase and their Putative Structural Role,” Protein Eng.,Design, and Selection, 17, 223–234, 2004.

5. Mursinna, R.S., K.W. Lee, J.M. Briggs, and S.A. Martinis, “MolecularDissection of a Critical Specificity Determinant within the AminoAcid Editing Domain of Leucyl-tRNA Synthetase,” Biochem., 43,155–165, 2004.

6. Mustata, G.I. and J.M. Briggs, “Molecular Dynamics Studies ofAlanine Racemase: A Structural Model for Drug Design,” Biopolymers,70, 186–200, 2003.

7. Lee, K.W. and J.M. Briggs, “Comparative Molecular Field Analysis(CoMFA) Study of Epothilones as Tubulin Inhibitors: PharmacophoreSearch Using 3D QSAR Methods,” J. Computer-Aided Mol. Design, 15,41–55, 2001.

8. Liu, N., H. Samartzidou, K.W. Lee, J.M. Briggs, and A.H. Delcour,“Effects of Pore Mutations and Permeant Ion Concentration on theSpontaneous Gating Activity of OmpC Porin,” Protein Eng., 13,491–500, 2001.

9. Ondrechen, M.J., J.M. Briggs and J.A. McCammon, “A Model forEnzyme-Substrate Interaction in Alanine Racemase,” J. Am. Chem.Soc., 123, 2830–2834, 2001.

B.S. Chemistry, University of Texas, El PasoPh.D. Theoretical Organic Chemistry, Purdue University

Associate Professor of Biochemistry and Chemistry;Associate Professor of Chemical Engineering


( )Email: [email protected]/cive/faculty/chellam/

RESEARCH INTERESTS:The principal motivation for ourresearch is reducing adversehuman health risks associatedwith municipal drinking waterand ambient air. Our membranescience and engineering researchfocuses on (a) quantifyingtemperature effects onnanofiltration membranemorphology, (b) fabricating a newclass of near-ideal microfiltrationmembranes with uniform andequally spaced pores without anythat overlap, (c) elucidatingmechanisms of microbial transportand bacterial fouling, and (d)modeling performance duringmunicipal drinking watertreatment. We are also interestedin characterizing airborne fineparticulate matter.

Nanofiltration for Dissolved Contaminant ControlBecause pores in thin-film composite nanofiltration membranes are onlya few times the size of water and dissolved solute molecules, transportacross them can be expected to be substantially hindered and subsequentlyan activated process. We are undertaking experimental measurementsand numerical calculations of the non-viscous contributions to waterpermeability and the activation energies for hindered pore diffusion.

Microbial Removal by Microfiltration MembranesWe are investigating hindered transport of rod-shaped bacteria across waterfilled pores of microfiltration membranes. Using several non-pathogenicbacteria we also study fouling caused by these organisms. Additionally, incollaboration with Dr. Dennis Clifford, we are pursuing pretreatmentstrategies, including chemical- and electro-coagulation to increase virusremoval by microfilters. Such an approach will maintain the high waterflux capability of microfiltration installations while simultaneously providing>99.99% removal of viruses from contaminated water supplies.

Elemental Composition of Urban Fine Particulate MatterDetailed analysis of trace elements in airborne fine particles is criticalbecause they may contribute to the adverse biological activity in humans.We developed a method that eliminates direct handling of hydrofluoricacid but can still quantitatively digest particulate matter from urbanatmospheric particulate samples prior to trace element analysis usingInductively Coupled Plasma—Mass Spectroscopy. Source apportionmentand identification calculations are also being undertaken. Importantly, wehave recently provided the first set of metal data for vehicular sources offine particles in the Houston area.

Lithographic Fabrication of Microfiltration MembranesIn collaboration with Dr. Paul Ruchhoeft, we are fabricating membraneswith near cylindrical pores of uniform size, cross section, and spacing. Wehave demonstrated the capability to produce polyimide filters by defining

the surface structure using ion beam aperture array lithography. Suchhighly ordered membranes are expected to have a higher water flux andcontaminant separation potential compared to commercially available ones.Current work focuses on fabricating and validating membranes with<100nm pores.

HONORS/ACTIVITIES:2005 Distinguished Service Award for Outstanding Service as

Chair of the Masters Thesis Award Subcommittee,Association of Environmental Engineering and ScienceProfessors (AEESP)

2004 Certificate of Merit Award at the 228th American ChemicalSociety National Meeting

2004 Outstanding Teacher Award, Cullen College of Engineering,University of Houston

2003 Junior Faculty Research Award, Cullen College ofEngineering, University of Houston

2002–2007 National Science Foundation CAREER Award, Division ofBioengineering and Environmental Systems

1998–2001 Chair, Membrane Technology Research Committee,American Water Works Association

1992 Doctoral Larson Aquatic Research Scholarship, AmericanWater Works Association

SELECTED PUBLICATIONS:1. Kulkarni, P., S. Chellam and M.P. Fraser, “Lanthanum and

Lanthanides in Atmospheric Fine Particles and their Apportionment toRefinery and Petrochemical Operations in Houston, TX.,” AtmosphericEnvironment, in press, 2005.

2. Zhao, Y., J.S. Taylor and S. Chellam, “Predicting RO/NF Solute MassTransfer by Modified Solution Diffusion Model and Artificial NeuralNetworks,” Journal of Membrane Science, in press, 2005.

3. Zhu, B., D.A. Clifford and S. Chellam, “Virus Removal by IronCoagulation—Microfiltration,” Water Research, in press, 2005.

4. Chellam, S., “Artificial Neural Network Model for Transient CrossflowMicrofiltration of Polydispersed Suspensions,” Journal of MembraneScience, 258 (1–2), 35–42, 2005.

5. Chellam, S., P. Kulkarni and M.P. Fraser, “Emissions of OrganicCompounds and Trace Metals in Fine Particulate Matter from MotorVehicles: A Tunnel Study in Houston, TX,” Journal of the Air andWaste Management Association, 55 (1), 60–72, 2005.

6. Han, K., W. Xu, A. Ruiz, P. Ruchhoeft, and S. Chellam, “Fabricationand Characterization of Polymeric Microfiltration Membrane Filtersusing Aperture Array Lithography,” Journal of Membrane Science, 249(1–2), 193–206, 2005.

7. Sharma, R.R. and S. Chellam, “Temperature Effects on theMorphology of Porous Thin Film Composite NanofiltrationMembranes,” Environmental Science and Technology, 39 (13),5022–5030, 2005.

8. Xu, W. and S. Chellam, “Initial Stages of Bacterial Fouling duringDead-End Microfiltration,” Environmental Science and Technology, 39(17), 6470–6476, 2005.

9. Zhu, B., D.A. Clifford and S. Chellam, “Comparison ofElectrocoagulation and Chemical Coagulation Pretreatment forEnhanced Virus Removal Using Microfiltration Membranes,” WaterResearch, 39 (13), 3098–3108, 2005.

B.S. Mechanical Engineering, Birla Institute of Technology and Science, IndiaM.S. Chemistry, Birla Institute of Technology and Science, IndiaM.S. Environmental Science and Engineering, Rice UniversityPh.D. Environmental Science and Engineering, Rice University

Associate Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering; Associate Professor of Chemical Engineering


Shankar Chellam

George E. Fox ( )Email: [email protected]/People/Fox_G/Fox_G.html

RESEARCH INTERESTS:The unifying theme behind theprojects in our laboratory is RNAstructure, function and evolution.Applied research is beingconducted on RNA technologyand methods for microbialmonitoring. Our research groupgenerally includes individuals ofvarious backgrounds includingthe biological sciences, chemistry,computer science and engineering.Projects range from benchtop molecular biology tocompletely theoretical projectsin bioinformatics. Some currentprojects include:

Microbial MonitoringWe are exploring the possible use of 16S rRNA targeted probes to rapidlyidentify bacteria for biodefense and space applications using a variety ofdetection methods including array hybridization, in situ hybridization andmolecular beacon technology. This work also includes a bioinformaticseffort to rapidly identify the most informative subsequences in the 16SrRNA database.

RNA DesignRNA is involved in regulating gene expression in fundamental ways.Naturally occurring riboswitches illustrate the possibility of developingcomplex sensors and nanomachines based on RNA. In order to facilitatethis technology development it is important to develop RNA designprinciples. To accomplish this we are developing extensive databases ofnon-standard interactions in known RNA structures in order to findsequence patterns that correlate with various local folding motifs. As partof this effort we will be using the University’s 800MHz NMR facility todetermine the structure of key small RNAs at atomic resolution.

Artificial RNA TechnologyWe have developed a novel method of producing artificial RNAs thatpersist in bacterial cells for long durations. Possible applications includedistinguishing repeated releases of otherwise identical recombinant bacteriain the environment and the expression of small polypeptides within the cellin order to provide desirable properties such as toxic metal resistance.

HONORS/ACTIVITIES:2004–2007 National Advisory Committee, NASA/TSU Research Center2003–2005 Member, Advisory Council USRA Life Science Division2002 Elected as Fellow of American Institute for Medical and

Biological Engineering2000–2003 Member, USCF/J. Roger Porter Award Nominating

Committee1997 University of Houston Research Award1995 Elected Fellow, American Association Advancement of

Science1994–Present Member, W.M. Keck Center for Computational Biology1994 Elected Fellow, American Academy of Microbiology

SELECTED PUBLICATIONS:1. Cano, T., J.C. Murphy, G.E. Fox, and R.C. Willson, “Separation of

Genomic DNA from Plasmid DNA by Selective Renaturation withIMAC Capture,” Biotechnol. Prog., in press, 2005.

2. Forsman, Z.H., H. Guzman, C.A. Chen, G.E. Fox, and G.M.Wellington, “An ITS Region Phylogeny of the Coral GenusSiderastrea Reveals the Likely Origin of Siderastrea glynni,”Coral Reefs, in press, 2005.

3. Huang, H-C., U. Nagaswamy and G.E. Fox, “The Application ofCluster Analysis in the Inter-Comparison of Loop Structures in RNA”RNA, in press, 2005.

4. Tucker, D.L., F. Karouia, J. Wang, Y. Luo, T.B. Li, R.C. Willson, Y.Fofanov, and G.E. Fox, “The Effect of an Artificial RNA Marker onGene Expression,” Escherichia coli Applied Environ. Microbiol., inpress, 2005.

5. Forsman, Z.H., J.A. Lednickey, G.E. Fox, R.C. Willson, Z. White, S.Halvorson, C. Wong, A.M. Lewis, and J.S. Butel, “PhylogeneticAnalysis of Polyomavirus Simian Virus 40 from Monkeys and Humans Reveals Genetic Variation,” J. Virology, 78, 9306–9316, 2004.

6. Fox, G.E. and A.K. Naik, “The Evolutionary History of theRibosome,” in The Genetic Code and The Origin of Life (L. Ribas dePoplana ed), Landes Bioscience Chapter 6, 92–105, 2004.

7. McLeod, M.P., S.E. Karpathy, J. Gioia, X. Qin, S.K. Highlander, G.E.Fox, T.Z. McNeil, H. Jiang, D. Muzny, L.S. Jacob, A.C. Hawes, E.Sodergren, R. Gill, J. Hume, M. Morgan, C. Hong, X. Yu, D.H.Walker, and G.M. Weinstock, “The Complete Genome of Rickettsiatyphi and Comparison with R. prowazekii and R. conorii,” J.Bacteriol., 186, 5842–5855, 2004.

8. Nagaswamy, U., M. Larios-Sanz, Z. Zhang, H-C. Huang, and G.E.Fox, “Non-Canonical Interactions in RNA: Recent Developments inNucleic Acids,” Transworld Research Network, 1, 103–129, 2004.

9. Balan, S., J.C. Murphy, I. Galaev, A. Kumar, G.E. Fox, B. Mattiasson,and R.C. Willson, “Metal Chelate Affinity Precipitation of RNA andPurification of Plasmid DNA,” Biotechnol. Lett., 25, 1111–1116, 2003.

10. D’Souza, L.M., M. Larios-Sanz, R.A. Setterquist, R.C. Willson, andG.E. Fox, “Small RNA Sequences are Readily Stabilized by Inclusionin a Carrier rRNA,” Biotechnology Progress, 19, 734–738, 2003.

11. DeWalt, B., J.C. Murphy, G.E. Fox, and R.C. Willson, “CompactionAgent Clarification of Microbial Lysates,” Protein Expression andPurification, 28, 220–223, 2003.

12. Kourentzi, K.D., G.E. Fox and R.C. Willson, “Hybridization-Responsive Fluorescent DNA Probes Containing the Adenine Analog2-AminoPurine,” Anal. Biochem., 322, 124–126, 2003.

13. Larios-Sanz, M., K.D. Kourentzi, J.C. Murphy, K.I. Maillard, D.L.Pearson, R.C. Willson, and G.E. Fox, “Estudio de las PoblacionesMicrobiologicas en el Ambiente Espacial,” Dianostico Molecular JGHEditors SA de CV, Mexico City, Mexico, 293–311, 2003.

14. Martin, K.A., J.L. Siefert, Y. Yerrapragada, Y. Lu, T.Z. McNeil, P.A.Moreno, G.M. Weinstock, W.R.Widger, and G.E. Fox,“Cyanobacterial Signature Genes,” Photosynthesis Research, 75,211–221, 2003.

15. Murphy, J.C., D.L. Jewell, K.I. White, G.E. Fox, and R.C. Willson,“Nucleic Acid Purification using Immobilized Metal AffinityChromatography,” Biotechnology Progress, 19, 982–986, 2003.

B.S. Chemical Engineering, Syracuse UniversityPh.D. Chemical Engineering, Syracuse University

Professor of Biology and Biochemistry;Professor of Chemical Engineering


( )Email: [email protected]/Faculty/Jacobson/

RESEARCH INTERESTS:The synthesis and properties oftransition metal oxide systemswith layered or frameworkstructures are one focus ofresearch in my group. We studythe synthesis of new compoundswith open framework structureswith potential applications inselective separations and catalysis.Compounds studied includetransition metal silicates andhybrid inorganic-organicframeworks, for example, themetal terephthalates. We alsostudy synthetic strategies for the

synthesis of homochiral solids for enantiomeric separations and the growthof nano particles in porous oxides.

The synthesis and properties of oxides that have applications in hightemperature ionic devices, such as fuel cells, oxygen transport membranesand sensors is a second research area. The major part of our work centerson mixed metal oxides with the ABO3 and A2BO4 perovskite relatedstructures. We investigate new compositions to establish structure-propertyrelationships. We use a variety of techniques to characterize the surfacereactivity and bulk transport properties of materials. We use oxygenpermeation through membranes, electrical conductivity relaxation, dcconductivity, ac impedance spectroscopy and other techniques to establishtransport properties at high temperature in a variety of gas atmospheres.Isotope exchange together with secondary ion mass spectroscopy depthprofiling, gives important and complementary information about ionictransport across interfaces.

HONORS/ACTIVITIES:2004 Esther Farfel Award, University of Houston2000–2003 Member, National Materials Advisory Board1999–2004 US Editor, Solid State Ionics1999 Visiting Lecturer, Nanjing Institute of Chemical Technology,

China1998 Research Excellence Award, University of Houston1997 Sigma Xi Research Faculty Award, University of Houston.

• Associate Editor, Solid State Ionics, Materials Research Bulletin• Editorial Advisory Board, Progress in Solid State Chemistry, Journal of

Solid State Chemistry, Solid State Sciences

SELECTED PUBLICATIONS:1. Anokhina, E.V. and A.J. Jacobson, “[Ni2O(l-Asp)(H2O)2]·4H2O: A

Homochiral 1D Helical Chain Hybrid Compound with Extended Ni-O-Ni Bonding,” J. Amer. Chem. Soc., 126, 3044–3045, 2004.

2. Majkic, G., A.J. Jacobson and K. Salama, “Stress-Induced Diffusionand Defect Chemistry of La0.2Sr0.8Fe0.8Cr0.2O3-δ 3—Defect ChemistryBased Modeling,” Solid State Ionics, 167/3-4, 225–262, 2004.

3. Chen, L., C.L. Chen, X. Chen, W. Donner, S.W. Liu, Y. Lin, D.X.Huang, and A.J. Jacobson, “Electrical Properties of a Highly-Oriented,Textured Thin Film of the Ionic Conductor Gd: CeO2-x on (001)MgO,” Applied Physics Letters, 83, 4737–4739, 2003.

4. Wang, X., L. Liu and A.J. Jacobson, “Novel Nanoporous CopperSilicates,” Angew Chemie, Int. Ed., 42, 2044–2047, 2003.

5. Souza, D.C.S., V. Pralong, A.J. Jacobson, and L.F. Nazar, “A ReversibleSolid State Crystalline Transformation in a Metal Phosphide Inducedby Redox Chemistry,” Science, 296, 2012–2015, 2002.

6. Wang, X., L. Liu and A.J. Jacobson, “Open-Framework andMicroporous Vanadium Silicates,” J. Amer. Chem. Soc., 124,7812–7820, 2002.

7. Wang, X., J. Huang and A.J. Jacobson, “[(CH3)4N][(C5H5NH)0.8((CH3)3NH)0.2] U2Si9O23F4 (USH-8): An OrganicallyTemplated Open-Framework Uranium Silicate,” J. Amer. Chem. Soc.,124, 15190–15191, 2002.

8. Wang, X., J. Huang, L. Liu, and A.J. Jacobson, “The Novel Open-Framework Uranium Silicates Na2(UO2)(Si4O10)·2.1H2O (USH-1)and RbNa(UO2)(Si2O6).H2O (USH-3),” J. Mater. Chem., 12,406–410, 2002.

9. Francis, R.J. and A.J. Jacobson, “The First Organically TemplatedOpen-Framework Niobium Silicate and Germanate Phases: LowTemperature Hydrothermal Syntheses of (C4N2H11)Nb3SiO10 (NSH-1)and (C4N2H11)Nb3GeO10 (NGH-1),” Angew. Chem., Int. Ed., 40,2879–2881, 2001.

10. Wang, X., L. Liu and A.J. Jacobson, “The Novel Open FrameworkVanadium Silicates K2VO(Si4O10)·H2O (VSH-1) andRb2VO(Si4O10)·3H2O (VSH-2),” Angew. Chem., Int. Ed., 40,2174–2176, 2001.

B.A. Chemistry, Oxford UniversityM.A. Chemistry, Oxford UniversityPh.D. Chemistry, Oxford University

Welch Professor of Science, Professor of Chemistry; Professor of Chemical Engineering


Allan J. Jacobson

T. Randall Lee ( )Email: [email protected]/faculty/lee/

RESEARCH INTERESTS:Research in the Lee groupexplores the preparation andcharacterization of nanoscalematerials, with a particular focuson carbon nanotubes, polymers,organic thin films, and nano-particles. A common thread thatties these research areas togetheris the use of synthesis—beit organic, inorganic,organometallic, or solid-state—to prepare new materials foremerging technologies.

Current studies of polymer-nanotube composites target the development of new ultra-strong butlightweight structural materials for use in mobile transports, such asautomobiles, airplanes, and space vehicles. Research in the area of organicthin films utilizes self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) to generate thin-filmcoatings (e.g., nanoscale Teflon) for use as lubricants in miniature electronicdevices and inert coatings for biomedical implants. Research on complexinterfaces targets the development of new SAMs to elicit molecularrecognition (e.g., biosensor devices) and/or catalysis (e.g., artificial enzymes).Studies of biologically active interfaces utilize SAMs to enhance the growthof protein crystals and to template cell adhesion and proliferation forgrowing artificial tissue and bone. In the nanoparticle area, research effortsseek to grow nanoshell particles for use as discrete drug delivery vehicles inthe treatment of cancer and related illnesses.

Since much of the work in the Lee group is collaborative in nature,students often work side-by-side with chemical engineers, physicists,electrical engineers, biochemists, and biomedical engineers. In this typeof environment, students gain knowledge and skills beyond those typicallyencountered in traditional chemistry laboratories.

HONORS/ACTIVITIES:2000 HAO Outstanding Faculty Award1999 Enron Teaching Excellence Award1999 University of Houston Research Excellence Award1995–2000 NSF Career Award1993–1998 Camille and Henry Dreyfus New Faculty Award

SELECTED PUBLICATIONS:1. Heller, D.A., V. Garga, K.J. Kelleher, T.-C. Lee, S. Mahbubani, L.A.

Sigworth, T.R. Lee, and M.A. Rea, “Patterned Networks of MouseHippocampal Neurons on Peptide-Coated Gold Surfaces,”Biomaterials, 26, 883–889, 2005.

2. Li, S., P. Cao, R. Colorado, Jr., X. Yan, I. Wenzl, O.E. Shmakova, M.Graupe, T.R. Lee, and S.S. Perry, “The Local Packing EnvironmentStrongly Influences the Frictional Properties of Mixed CH3- andCF3-Terminated Alkanethiol SAMs on Au(111),” Langmuir, 21,933–936, 2005.

3. Heneghan, A.F., H.J. Moore, T.R. Lee, and A.D.J. Haymet, “Statisticsof Heterogeneous Nucleation of Supercooled Aqueous Solutions in aSelf-Assembled-Monolayer (SAM) Coated Container,” Chem. Phys.Lett., 385, 441–445, 2004.

4. Heo, R.W., J.-S. Park, J.T. Goodson, G.C. Claudio, M. Takenaga, T.A.Albright, and T.R. Lee, “ROMP of t-Butyl-Substituted FerrocenophanesAffords Soluble Conjugated Polymers that Contain Ferrocene Moietiesin the Backbone,” Tetrahedron, 60, 7225–7235, 2004.

5. Kim, J.-H. and T.R. Lee, “Thermo- and pH-Responsive Hydrogel-Coated Gold Nanoparticles,” Chem. Mater., 16, 3647–3651, 2004.

6. Lee, T.-C., D.J. Hounihan, R. Colorado, Jr., J.-S. Park, and T.R. Lee,“Stability of Aliphatic Dithiocarboxylic Acid Self-AssembledMonolayers on Gold,” J. Phys. Chem. B, 108, 2648–2653, 2004.

7. Parekh, B.P., S.S. Newaz, S.K. Sanduja, A.Q. Ashraf, R.Krishnamoorti, and T.R. Lee, “The Use of DMF As Solvent Allows forthe Facile Synthesis of Soluble MEH-PPV,” Macromolecules, 37,8883–8887, 2004.

8. Park, J.-S., A.C. Smith and T.R. Lee, “Loosely Packed Self-AssembledMonolayers on Gold Generated from 2-Alkyl-2-methylpropane-1,3-dithiols,” Langmuir, 20, 5829–5836, 2004.

9. Pham, T., D. Lai, D. Ji, W. Tuntiwechapikul, J.M. Friedman, and T.R.Lee, “Well-Ordered Self-Assembled Monolayer Surfaces can be used toEnhance the Growth of Protein Crystals,” Coll. Surf. B: Biointerfaces,34, 191–196, 2004.

10. Umezawa-Vizzini, K. and T.R. Lee, “Reversible Olefin-HydrideInsertion in the Cationic Ruthenium Complexes [(η6-C6H5CH2CH2PR2)RuH(CH2=CH2)]+,” Organometallics, 23,1448–1452, 2004.

B.A. Chemistry, Rice UniversityPh.D. Chemistry, Harvard University

Professor of Chemistry; Professor of Chemical Engineering


( )Email: [email protected]/faculty/perry/

RESEARCH INTERESTS:Dr. Perry’s research involves theuse of scanning probe microscopyand ultra high vacuum (UHV)surface analytical techniques tostudy the structure, chemicalreactivity, and tribologicalproperties of a number of differentclasses of material surfaces.These include metal oxides,metal carbides, metal nitrides,ultra thin polymer films, andorganic self-assembled monolayers.An important theme throughoutthis work is the correlation ofmolecular structure and

composition with the measured chemical reactivity and mechanicalresponse of the interface. The use of an array of experimental techniquesis needed in developing a compete picture of these materials surfaces.

Current projects include the investigation of transition metal carbides,which are unique with respect to both their chemical and physicalproperties. Chemically, some transition metal carbides display reactivityand catalytic activity similar to platinum. Physically, these materials areextremely hard and possess high melting points. The surface chemicalreactivity of a wide range of functionalities is being explored on surfacesof titanium carbide and vanadium carbide. Particular attention is given tothe relationship between the local structure, the electronic structure, andthe measured reactivity.

In a second project, the correlation of molecular structure and the physicalinterfacial properties of molecularly thin coatings is being investigated as itrelates to the phenomena of wetting, adhesion, and friction. This correlationis being probed on a nanometer scale using atomic force microscopy and arange of spectroscopic tools. This approach is currently being applied toadsorbed, water-soluble polymer brushes and to the vapor phase depositedthin organic coatings.

Finally, scanning probe microscopy is being applied to the study ofnanometer scale metal particles, which have demonstrated size-dependentchemical and catalytic properties. These particles often suffer frominstability and sintering at elevated temperatures and atomic forcemicroscopy is being used to follow the changes such metal particles oninsulating oxide supports as a function of temperature. A central aspectof this research explores methods of controlling surface diffusion andincreasing particle stability.

HONORS/ACTIVITIES:2001, 2003 Visiting Professor, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology

(ETH-Zurich) 2002 Research Excellence Award, University of Houston2000 NSM College Teaching Excellence Award, University

of Houston1999 NSF CAREER Award1997 Cooper Award for Teaching Excellence, University of Houston

SELECTED PUBLICATIONS:1. Hill, J., R. Petrucci, T. McCreary, and S.S. Perry, General Chemistry,

Prentice Hall Publishers, 2005.2. Yan, X., S.S. Perry, N.D. Spencer, S. Pasche, S.M. DePaul, M. Textor,

and M.S. Lim, “Reduction of Friction at Oxide Interfaces throughPolymer Adsorption from Aqueous Solutions,” Langmuir, 20 (2),423, 2004.

3. Didziulis, S.V., K. Butcher and S.S. Perry, “Small Cluster Models ofthe Surface Electronic Structure and Bonding Properties of TitaniumCarbide, Vanadium Carbide, and Titanium Nitride,” InorganicChemistry, 42 (24), 7766, 2003.

4. Kim, B.-I., C. Cai, X. Deng, and S.S. Perry, “Surface-Induced Two-Dimensional Chirality in Organic Self-Assembled Structures: An STMStudy of PVBA on Pd(111),” Surface Science, 538 (1–2), 45, 2003.

5. Kim, H.I., P. Frantz, S.V. Didziulis, L.C. Fernandez-Torres, and S.S.Perry, “Reaction of Trimethylphosphate with TiC and VC(100)Surfaces,” Surface Science, 543 (1–3), 103, 2003.

6. Yang, X. and S.S. Perry, “Friction and Molecular Order of AlkanethiolSelf-Assembled Monolayers on Au(111) at Elevated TemperaturesMeasured by Atomic Force Microscopy,” Langmuir, 19 (15),6135–6139, 2003.

7. Guenard, R.L., L.C. Fernandez-Torres, B.-I. Kim, S.S. Perry, P. Frantz,and S.V. Didziulis, “Selective Surface Reactions of Single CrystalMetal Carbides: Alkene Production from Short Chain Alcohols onTitanium Carbide and Vanadium Carbide,” Surface Science, 515 (1),103–116, 2002.

B.S. Chemistry, Furman UniversityPh.D. Chemistry, University of Texas at Austin

Professor of Chemistry; Professor of Chemical Engineering;Associate Dean of Undergraduate Research, Honors College


Scott S. Perry

Veronique V. Tran ( )Email: [email protected]/faculty/tran/

RESEARCH INTERESTS:Our laboratory seeks to integratecellular engineering, drug delivery,and bioactive materials tomodulate circulating cell behavior.An active area of research is theapplication of these technologiesin the development of animmune-privileged site to protectimplanted glucose-sensing betacells from immune attack.Other application areas includeimproving biocompatibility ofcardiovascular devices andtreatment of inflammatorydiseases. Cellular engineering

involves genetic or environmental manipulations to create new cells withdesired phenotypes. Microfabrication methods are being investigated forconstruction of drug delivery systems and bioactive materials. Molecularand cellular assays are used to test various aspects of the three technologies.Our research encompasses multi-disciplinary collaborations withresearchers in the Departments of Chemistry, and Pharmacological andPharmaceutical Sciences at the University of Houston as well as cliniciansand basic scientists at the Texas Medical Center.

HONORS/ACTIVITIES:2004–2005 The Whitaker Foundation Teaching Materials Award

SELECTED PUBLICATIONS:1. Saltzman, W.M. and V.V. Tran, Biomedical Engineering: Bridging

Medicine and Technology, Cambridge University Press, to bepublished in 2005.

2. Newgard, C.B., H.E. Hohmeier, D. Lu, M.V. Jensen, V.V. Tran,G.X. Chen, S. Burgess, and A.D. Sherry, “Understanding of BasicMechanisms of Beta-Cell Function and Survival: Prelude to NewDiabetes Therapies,” Cell Biochem. Biophys., 40 (3 Suppl), 159–68,2004.

3. Hohmeier, H.E., V.V. Tran, G.X. Chen, R. Gasa, and C.B. Newgard,“Inflammatory Mechanisms in Diabetes: Lessons from the Beta-Cell,”Int. J. Obes. Relat. Metab. Disord., 27 Suppl 3, S12–6, 2003.

4. Tran, V.V., H.E. Hohmeier, G.X. Chen, and C.B. Newgard, “Discreteand Complementary Protection against Cytokine-Induced andOxidative Damage Achieved by bcl-2 Overexpression and a CytokineSelection Strategy,” Diabetes, 52, 1423–32, 2003.

5. Chen, G.X., H.E. Hohmeier, R. Gasa, V.V. Tran, and C.B. Newgard,“Selection of Insulinoma Cell Lines with Resistance to Interleukin-1βand γ-Interferon-Induced Cytotoxicity,” Diabetes, 49, 562–570, 2000.

6. Newgard, C.B., S. Clark, A. Thigpen, H.E. Hohmeier, C. Quaade,V.V. Tran, and K. Normington, “Engineering of Cell Lines for InsulinReplacement in IDDM,” Can. J. Diabetes Care, 23, 52–58, 1999.

7. Hohmeier, H., A. Thigpen, V.V. Tran, R. Davis, and C.B. Newgard,“Stable Expression of MnSOD Protects against IL-1βb MediatedCytotoxicity and Reduces Nitric Oxide,” Journal of ClinicalInvestigation, 101, 1811–20, 1998.

B.S. Chemical Engineering, University of HoustonPh.D. Biomedical Engineering, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at DallasPost-Doctoral Training, Biomedical Engineering, Yale University

Assistant Professor of Biomedical Engineering; Assistant Professor of Chemical Engineering


( )Email: [email protected] gsbs.gs.uth.tmc.edu/tutorial/annapragada.html

RESEARCH INTERESTS:Ananth Annapragada is anAssociate Professor ofBioinformatics, in the School ofHealth Information Sciences atthe University of Texas HealthSciences Center at Houston. Heholds additional positions at theGraduate School of BiomedicalSciences at UT, and in the KeckInstitute for Computational andStructural Biology. He is anAdjunct Faculty at the Universityof Houston, in the Departmentof Chemical Engineering. Hejoined UT in August 2003,

after 3 years at the Cleveland Clinic/Cleveland State University Programin Biomedical Engineering, where he was Associate Professor andProgram Director.

Ananth received his Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from The Universityof Michigan in 1989. After Post-Doctoral Fellowships at the University of Minnesota and MIT, he joined Abbott Laboratories as a ResearchScientist in 1991. In 1996, he joined SEQUUS Pharmaceuticals, MenloPark, CA. He stayed with SEQUUS through its merger with ALZA, andleft to his first academic position in Cleveland in 2000, when ALZA wasacquired by Johnson and Johnson. In 2003, he moved to Texas to pursuecurrent position.

Ananth directs the Laboratory for Computational Biology and DeliverySystems (LCBDS) at UT. His research interests are in drug delivery,particularly physical and receptor targeting processes. About half ofhis current lab is dedicated to pulmonary drug delivery, and theremaining to cancer targeting, for therapeutic and diagnostic purposes.Details of the LCBDS current projects is available on the Web atwww.sahs.uth.tmc.edu/aannapragada/.

HONORS/ACTIVITIES:2004 Chandran Lecture in Neuro-Oncology, Duke University 2004 Invitee to National Academy of Sciences/Keck Futures

Initiative Nanotechnology in Medicine Conference (one of100 invitees nationwide)

SELECTED PUBLICATIONS:1. Mukundan, S. Jr., C.T. Badea, L.W. Hedlund, J.M. Provenzale, G.A.

Johnson, K.B. Ghaghada, E. Chen, A. Annapragada, C.-Y. Kao, andR.V. Bellamkonda, “A Nanoscale, Liposomal Contrast Agent forPreclinical Micro-CT Imaging of the Mouse,” AJR Am. J. Roentgenol,accepted.

2. Ghaghada, K., J. Saul, R. Bellamkonda, and A. Annapragada, “FolateTargeting of Drug Carriers—A Mathematical Model,” J. Cont. Rel.,104 (1), 113–128, 2005.

3. Karathanasis, E., A.L. Ayyagari, R. Bhavane, R.V. Bellamkonda, andA.V. Annapragada, “Preparation of In Vivo Cleavable AgglomeratedLiposomes Suitable for Modulated Pulmonary Drug Delivery,” Journalof Controlled Release, 103 (1), 159–175, 2005.

4. Bhavane, R., S. Karathanassis and A. Annapragada, “AgglomeratedVesicles for Pulmonary Drug Delivery,” J. Cont. Rel., 93, 15–28, 2003.

5. Kao, C.-Y., R. Bellamkonda and A. Annapragada, “A Long-CirculatingBlood Pool Contrast Agent for CT Imaging,” Acad. Radiol., 10 (5),475–483, 2003.

6. Nowak, N., P. Kakade and A. Annapragada, “CFD Simulation ofAirflow and Drug Deposition in Human Lungs,” Ann. Biomed. Eng.,31, 2003.

7. Saul, J., A. Annapragada, J. Natarajan, and R. Bellamkonda,“Controlled Targeting of Liposomal Doxorubicin via the FolateReceptor in Vitro,” Journal of Controlled Release, 92, 49–67, 2003.

B.Tech Chemical Engineering, A.C. College of TechnologyPh.D. Chemical Engineering, University of MichiganPost-Doc Chemical Engineering, University of MinnesotaPost-Doc Chemical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Adjunct Professor of Chemical Engineering; Professor of Bioinformatics, University of Texas, Houston


Ananth Annapragada

Ali Daneshy ( )Email: [email protected]/faculty/daneshy/

RESEARCH INTERESTS:Hydraulic FracturingUnder natural flow conditionsthe production rate of many oiland gas fields is not sufficient tomake them economical. This isparticularly true for many of theonshore fields in U.S. Hydraulicfracturing is the most commonmethod of well productivityenhancement. Oil and gasindustry spends billions of dollarseach year for fracturing services.Even though the subject hasbeen covered in many technicalpublications, there is still

much that is not known about the mechanics of fracture propagationin heterogeneous reservoir formations at great depths.

Modern Well ArchitecturesRecent technologies in the oil and gas industry have made it possible toproduce oil and gas from a network of branches connected to a motherwellbore. The success of this technology depends on ability to veryprecisely locating these branches within the reservoir, measurement offlow parameters in the high pressure and temperature undergroundenvironment, and ability to regulate production from individual branchesthrough surface-controlled downhole flow regulators.

Rock MechanicsMany oil and gas operations require knowledge of the mechanical behaviorof rocks. These include exploring, drilling, fracturing, sand control,compaction and reservoir subsidence, and many more. Unlike man-madematerials, rocks have very complex and heterogeneous behaviors and reactdifferently to physical and chemical stimuli.

HONORS/ACTIVITIES:2004–2007 Director, Society of Petroleum Engineers 2004 SPE Distinguished Lecturer1996 Chairman, SPE Distinguished Service Award Committee1993 SPE Distinguished Service Award1992 SPE Distinguished Member Award1991–1993 Chairman, SPE Global Forum Series Coordination

Committee1986–88 Executive Editor, SPE Production Engineering Journal 1984–86 Chairman, SPE Publications Review Committee1980 Chairman, SPE Cedrick K. Ferguson Medal Committee

SELECTED PUBLICATIONS:1. Daneshy, A.A., “Impact of Off-Balance Fracturing on Borehole

Stability and Casing Failure,” SPE 93620, SPE Western RegionalMeeting, Irvine, March 30–April 1, 2005.

2. Daneshy, A.A., “Pressure Variation Inside the Hydraulic Fracture andits Impact on Fracture Propagation, Conductivity, and Screen-out,”SPE 95355, SPE ATCE, Dallas, Oct. 9–12, 2005.

3. Daneshy, A.A., “Proppant Distribution and Flowback in Off-BalanceHydraulic Fractures,” SPEPE, 41–46, 2005.

4. Daneshy, A.A., “Analysis of Off-Balance Fracture Extension and Fall-Off Pressures,” SPE 86471, International Symposium and Exhibition onFormation Damage, Lafayette, Feb. 18–20, 2004.

5. Daneshy, A.A., “On the Accuracy of In-situ Stress Measurements byHydraulic Fracturing,” ARMA/NARMS paper 459, Gulf Rocks 2004,the 6th North America Rock Mechanics Symposium (NARMS): RockMechanics Across Borders and Disciplines, Houston, June 5–9, 2004.

6. Daneshy, A.A., “Off-Balance Growth: A New Concept in HydraulicFracturing,” JPT, 78–85, 2003.

7. Valko, P., L. Norman and A.A. Daneshy, “Well Stimulation,” Chapter17, Petroleum Well Construction, Edited by M. Economides, L. Wattersand S. Dunn-Norman, John Wiley, & Sons, 1998.

8. Daneshy, A.A., “Proppant Transport,” Chapter 10, SPE Monograph Vol.12, Recent Advances in Hydraulic Fracturing, Edited by Gidley,Holditch, Nierode, and Veatch, 1989.

9. Daneshy, A.A., et al., “In-Situ Stress Measurement During Drilling,”JPT, 891–98, 1986.

10. Daneshy, A.A., “Hydraulic Fracture Propagation in LayeredFormations,” SPEJ, 1978.

11. Daneshy, A.A., “Numerical Solution of Sand Transport in HydraulicFracturing,” JPT, 132, 1978.

12. Daneshy, A.A., “A Study of Inclined Hydraulic Fractures,” SPEJ, 1973.13. Daneshy, A.A., “Experimental Investigation of Hydraulic Fracturing

through Perforations,” JPT, 1973.14. Daneshy, A.A., “On the Design of Vertical Hydraulic Fractures,”

JPT, 1973.

B.S. Mining Engineering, University of TehranM.S. Mineral Engineering, University of MinnesotaPh.D. Mining Engineering (Rock Mechanics), University of Missouri-Rolla

Adjunct Professor of Chemical Engineering;Director of Petroleum Engineering Program


( )Email: [email protected]/faculty/fleischer/

RESEARCH INTERESTS:My current interest is in the areaof economics. The last position Iheld before retiring from ShellChemicals in 2003 was asEconomics Manager, withaccountabilities for theinvestment decision frameworkin Shell Chemicals from aneconomics standpoint. Some ofthe responsibilities included:• Promoting standards and tools

and ensuring consistency toproposals and decisions forprojects and ventures above $10million of capital expenditures

• Ensuring consistent applicationof premises and assumptions

• Promoting learning anddeveloping competencies inShell Chemicals

• Taking full account of relevantlearnings and developments inthe field of economic thinkingand related subjects suchas value based management,risk management andcapital structuring

HONORS/ACTIVITIES:1997, 1998, 2001 and 2004 Most Outstanding Lecturer Award,

Cullen College of Engineering, University of Houston

2002 Awarded Champions of Excellence by Shell Chemicals

2000–Present CEO of Fleischer International Trading,a private enterprise that imports anddistributes fine wines in the US

1999 UH Adjunct Associate Professor1977 Air Pollution Control Association Best

Paper Award

• 26 years with Shell in increasingly responsible positions• 7 Special Recognition Awards as an individual contributor or in

leadership positions in Shell• 24 years as a lecturer of the Chemical Engineering Department• Shell Ph.D. recruiter at Stanford University, University of California—

Berkeley and the University of Houston• Leader and/or participant of many community organizations

SELECTED PUBLICATIONS:1. Fleischer, M.T., “Mathematical Modeling of Chemical Spills on Land,”

Ecolibrium, 11, 10–13, 1982.2. Fleischer, M.T. and D.M. Prett, “Simplified Simulation Speeds Olefins

Plant Optimization,” Oil & Gas Journal, April 6, 85–89, 1981.3. Fleischer, M.T. and D.M. Prett, “Simplified Techniques for Simulating

Complex Columns,” Chemical Engineering Progress, 2, 72–75, 1981.4. Fleischer, M.T. and D.M. Prett, “Simplified Techniques for Simulation

of Complex Distillation Columns,” 88th National Meeting of theAIChE, 1980.

5. Fleischer, M.T., “Spills: An Evaporation/Air Dispersion Model forChemical Spills on Land,” Proceedings of 1980 National Conference onControl of Hazardous Materials Spills, 375–380, 1980.

6. Fleischer, M.T. and F.L. Worley, Jr., “Orthogonal Collocation—Application to Diffusion from Point Sources,” AtmosphericEnvironment, 12, 1349–1357, 1978.

B.S. Chemical Engineering, Universidad Católica de ChileB.S. Industrial Engineering, Universidad Católica de ChileM.S. Chemical Engineering, University of HoustonPh.D. Chemical Engineering, University of Houston

Adjunct Professor of Chemical Engineering


Micky Fleischer

Charles Rooks ( )Email: [email protected]/faculty/rooks/

RESEARCH INTERESTS:Undergraduate LaboratoryOne of his primary missions isthe continuous improvement ofthe Undergraduate ChemicalEngineering Laboratory.This includes upgrading theinstrumentation in the lab andmodernizing the experiments tomore closely reflect what studentswill find in industry whenthey graduate.

Diesel Emission ControlsEvaluating various strategies forthe control of NOx, SOx, and

particulates in diesel exhausts. We are currently working with the City ofHouston on a project to devise a method of accurately evaluating variousemission reduction technologies for the diesel fleet owned by the city.

NOx AbatementWorking with local industry to measure NOx emissions from various typesof heaters and boilers with the goal of building mathematical models topredict the emission levels from these sources. Once these models havebeen proven, they could then be used for EPA compliance, thus avoidingexpensive routine testing.

HONORS/ACTIVITIES:• American Institute of Chemical Engineers• American Chemical Society• Tau Beta Pi• Southwest Catalysis Society• North American Catalysis Society

SELECTED PUBLICATIONS:1. U.S. Patent 5,892,131: “Transport Hydroxylation Reactor,”

April 6, 1999.2. U.S. Patent 4,367,160: “Oxidant for Gasifying Carbon Containing

Materials,” January 4, 1983.3. U.S. Patent 4,272,555: “Conversion of Carbon Containing Materials

to Carbon Monoxide,” June 9, 1981.4. U.S. Patent 4,272,399: “Conversion of Carbon Containing Materials

to Synthesis Gas,” June 9, 1981.

B.S. Chemical Engineering, University of MississippiM.S. Chemical Engineering, University of OklahomaPh.D. Chemical Engineering, University of Oklahoma

Adjunct Professor of Chemical Engineering; Director, Chemical Engineering Undergraduate Laboratory; Director, UH Diesel Vehicle Research and Testing Facility



The Department of Chemical Engineering is most grateful for the supportcontributed by these industrial, educational, and nonprofit organizations.

The department’s Industrial Advisory Board meets biannuallyto discuss issues of mutual interest to educators and industrialemployers. The primary mutual value of our IAB is to help our department ensure that the preparation and quality of our graduating students remain in step with the evolving needs of industry. The IAB also provides input and advice to the department on such issues as student recruitment, curriculum content, graduate research programs, and university-industry partnerships.

Members of the IAB include the following organizations:ABB Lummus Global (Houston, TX)Aspen Technology, Inc. (Houston, TX)Bayer Technology Services Americas (Baytown, TX)Bechtel Corp. (Houston, TX)BP Mexico (Mexico)ConocoPhillips, Inc. (Houston, TX)Cutler Johnston Corp. (Barksdale, TX)Dixie Chemical Co. (Houston, TX)The Dow Chemical Co. (Freeport, TX)Ethyl Corp. (Pasadena, TX)ExxonMobil Chemical (Baytown, TX)Fluor Enterprises, Inc. (Sugar Land, TX)Kellogg Brown & Root (Houston, TX)Lyondell (Houston, TX)M.A. Ervin & Associates (Austin, TX)Marathon Ashland (Texas City, TX)OxyVinyls, L.P.—Houston Operations (Deer Park, TX)Rohm and Haas Texas, Inc. (Deer Park, TX)SABIC Americas, Inc.—Technology Center (Sugar Land, TX)SAIC Consulting (Houston, TX)Shell Chemical LP (Houston, TX)Total Petrochemicals (Deer Park, TX)

DEPARTMENTAL SUPPORTERSAND SPONSORS

FUNDING AGENCIESAir Force Office of Scientific ResearchAmerican Chemical Society—

Petroleum Research FundAmerican Institute of

Chemical EngineersCouncil for Chemical ResearchDARPAHomeland Security Advanced Research

Projects Agency (HSARPA)Human Frontiers Research FoundationNASANational Institutes of HealthNational Science FoundationOffice of Naval ResearchSandia National LaboratoryTexas Advanced Research ProgramTexas Advanced Technology ProgramU.S. Department of AgricultureU.S. Department of Commerce

—National Institute of Standards and Technology

U.S. Department of EnergyU.S. Environmental Protection AgencyTexas Hazardous Waste Research CenterThe Welch Foundation

INDUSTRY3M Corp.Applied MaterialsBASF Corp.BP/AmocoCAChE Corp.Chevron U.S.A. Inc.Cummins, Inc.The Dow Chemical Co.The Dow Chemical Co. FoundationDuPont Dow Elastomers LLCE.I. DuPont de Nemours & Co.Enchira, Inc.Engelhard, Inc.EquilonExxonMobilExxonMobil Chemical Co.Fluor Corp.Ford Motor Co.Frito-LayGenentech, Inc.HalliburtonHalliburton Foundation, Inc.Hoechst-Celanese Chemical GroupKellogg, Brown & RootLam ResearchThe Lubrizol FoundationMarathon Oil Co.Rohm and Haas CompanySACHEM, Inc.SchlumbergerSEMATECHShell Oil Co. FoundationTexas Instruments, Inc.Waters, Inc.

INDUSTRIALADVISORY BOARD


EMPLOYERS OF RECENT GRADUATESAir LiquideAir ProductsAjou University, Seoul, KoreaAkzoAMGENApplied MaterialsAspen TechnologyBASFBattelleBayer Technology Services AmericasBP/AmocoChemStationsChevronConocoDow ChemicalDuke/Fluor DanielDuPontExxonMobilExxonMobil ChemicalExxonMobil Research & Development

FETCFM GlobalFoxboroFrito-LayGDS EngineersGeneral ElectricGeneral Electric Research & DevelopmentGraceGranherneHalliburtonHavensaHoneywellI2IBM CorporationKinder MorganLawrence Livermore National LaboratoriesLockheed/Martin at NASALyondellMerckMerck Development Laboratories

Millennium PharmaceuticalsNorthrop GrummanRaytheonRohm and HaasSABIC AmericasSchlumbergerScientific Measurement SystemsShellShell DevelopmentSimSciSudChem Texas InstrumentsTexas Petro-ChemThai PetrochemicalsUnited TechnologiesUniversity of California, Santa BarbaraUniversity of HoustonUniversity of IowaU.S. Navy


The UH campus incorporates 548 acres of parks, fountains, plazas, sculptures andrecreational fields surrounding modern classroom, laboratory and study facilities,affording students a comfortable and well-equipped setting for academic pursuits andproximity to the downtown area of the nation’s fourth-largest city.

UH researchers collaborate extensively with workers in the Texas Medical Center,NASA’s Johnson Space Center, and the Houston-area Keck Center for ComputationalBiology (cohesion.rice.edu/centersandinst/gcc/keck.cfm).

UH’s more famous alumni include founder of Compaq Computers Rod Canion;Astronauts Bonnie Dunbar and Bernard Harris; ABC News anchor Tom Jarriel; CBSsportscaster Jim Nantz; singer/songwriter Larry Gatlin; actors Dennis and RandyQuaid; and Olympian Carl Lewis.

The UH discovery of high-temperature superconductors led to the establishment ofthe Texas Center for Superconductivity at UH, the largest university superconductivityresearch effort in the United States. The Institute for Scientific Information recentlynamed a TCSUH researcher one of the world’s most cited research authors.

UH ranked tenth in the nation in citation frequency in the physical sciences (physics,chemistry, earth sciences, engineering, mathematics and applied sciences) accordingto Nature.

Houston is the fourth-largest city in the United States, with nearly two million cityresidents and 4.5 million in the metropolitan region. Houston is home to the largestmedical center in the world, employing more than 62,000 with a local economicimpact of $14 billion. A $600-million biotechnology commercialization park is nowunder development.

Houston has the lowest crime rate and second-lowest cost of living among majorAmerican cities. In addition, Houston has the most affordable housing of the 10most populated metropolitan areas, 39 percent below the average of U.S. citieswith a population of more than 1.5 million.

Among the 10 largest U.S. cities, Houston ranks second in the rate of job growth.Houston also ranks eighth out of 354 U.S. metro areas in overall quality of life.*Home to 18 Fortune 500 companies and more than 5,000 energy-related firms,Houston is considered by many as the Energy Capital of the world. More than90 languages are spoken throughout the Houston area.

Houstonians dine out (in more than 11,000 restaurants) more than residents of anyother city. The Houston Theater District is second only to New York City with itsconcentration of seats in one geographic area. A youthful city, 37 percent ofHoustonians are 24 years old or younger, and 71 percent are under 44.

For three consecutive years, Houston has ranked first in the nation in new businessgrowth. In the most recent survey, more than 31,000 new local businesses were startedin Houston. Los Angeles was a distant second with 16,780.

*Source: Places Rated Almanac

The University of Houston

Houston

Department of Chemical EngineeringUniversity of Houston

S222 Engineering Bldg 1Houston, TX 77204-4004

713-743-4300 | www.chee.uh.edu

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