Dr. Eric E. Simanek has joined the Department of Chemistry as the Robert A. Welch Professor of Chemistry. An organic chemist, Simanek’s research focuses on the use of tree-shaped polymers to fight disease. His current interests in drug delivery concentrate on prostate, breast and lung cancer, septic shock, and heavy metal poisoning. Simanek has an active interest in gene therapy and diagnostic medical imaging. Agencies that have supported his research include the National Institutes of Health, the National Science Foundation, the USDA, and DARPA.

“I am honored to accept the Robert A. Welch Chair at Texas Christian University. I have great respect for its previous holders, Drs. Paul Bartlett and David Gutsche.” said Simanek. “I am committed to maintaining the legacy of excellence established by these scientists and my colleagues throughout the University. TCU is a vibrant community of teacher-scholars making profoundly important contributions in both the classroom and through research. I cannot help but smile every day I set foot on campus. I am excited to join the Frog family.”

Simanek received a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from the University of Illinois and a master’s and doctoral degree in chemistry from Harvard University. Dr. Simanek is a dedicated educator having taught a dozen different undergraduate and graduate courses previously at Texas A&M University, as well as leading the general chemistry program. Simanek’s first course at TCU is an “Introduction to Undergraduate Research” that allows students to participate in authentic scientific research, the synthesis of polymers that gel petroleum, as well as present at the regional meeting of the American Chemical Society in New Orleans in December.  Simanek also enjoys sharing his passion for science with K-12 teachers and their students.

The Robert A. Welch Professor of Chemistry was established by The Robert A. Welch Foundation to recognize distinguished achievement in the field of chemistry.