Three Pittsburgh scientists were honored this month for innovative research.
Dr. Jennifer Aitken, assistant professor in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Duquesne University, has earned a coveted $500,000 grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) to help prepare a new generation of scientists through the development of basic science research in the field of semiconductors.
The NSF grant process weighs whether students are exposed to an intensive research experience and thus, are better equipped for future jobs in government, academics, pharmaceutical and chemical laboratory careers.
Dr. Steven Little, an assistant professor of chemical engineering in Pitt's Swanson School of Engineering, received a 2008 Beckman Young Investigators award and a $300,000 grant for his unique study into the development of engineered particles that are capable of potentially manipulating the immune system.
While the research is still in a theoretical stage, his work may one day give researchers the tools to better understand and heal the immune system through the development of alternative therapies for such ailments as arthritis and autoimmune disorders. The grant will go toward the hiring of two additional researchers for the project, Little says.
Dr. Terry Collins, Thomas Lord Professor of Chemistry and head of the Institute for Green Science at Carnegie Mellon University, has earned the new $50,000 Charles E. Kaufman Award for pioneering research in green chemistry. He is the first honoree of the award to be presented annually.
Dr. Collins has been recognized worldwide for his extensive scientific contributions to green chemistry and his public advocacy for use of it to achieve a sustainable civilization. For a Pop City story on Dr. Collins, click here.
Writer: Debra Smit
Source: Duquesne University, Carnegie Mellon University, University of Pittsburgh
Image of Dr. Little courtesy University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine