In recognition of his exemplary research in the fields of surface chemistry, microfluidics and nanotechnology, Harvard University’s George Whitesides has been named the 2018 Covestro Distinguished Lecturer by the Department of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering at the Swanson School of Engineering.
Lecture 1: How to Think About “Who Cares?” in Chemistry and Chemical Engineering
Thursday, April 19, 5:00 p.m. (Reception follows)
ABSTRACT: Chemistry, and the world of science and technology of which it is a part, are changing dramatically. Biology, materials, nanotechnology, and other less familiar/popular areas offer opportunities; the decline in invention in the chemical industry, and of productivity in the pharmaceutical industry, limits opportunities. One future for chemistry is the emergence of new fields; another is absorption by other disciplines. Every area of science faces periods of maturation and reinvention. What are the indicators for chemistry at this time? Does the history of other fields offer useful lessons?
Location and Address
102 Benedum Hall Room
3700 O’Hara Street
Schedule of Events
Covestro Distinguished Lecture: Simplicity as a Strategy in Research
April 20, 2018 - 9:30am
Lecture 2: Simplicity as a Strategy in Research
ABSTRACT: “Simplicity” as a Component of Invention. “Complexity” is relatively simple to think about (at least for academics); “simplicity” is more complex. This seminar will consider “simplicity” (together with an idea we call “stackability”) as a parameter to guide strategy in research, using two examples--one from ongoing large-scale technology, and one from our own research.
For more information, email che@engr.pitt.edu or call 412-624-9630.