Notebook - Spring 2016

Notebook

Pub li s hed for Alum ni a nd Fr i ends of the Univers it y of U tah College of S cience

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Student Profiles Churchill Scholar Michael Zhao H e r t z Fe l l o w s h i p E t h a n L a k e

College of Science Provides Signature Student Experience

Notebook

Publisher

College of Science Dean

Henry S. White Editor

James R. DeGooyer Graphic Design

Royter Snow Design PHOTOGRAPHY AND ILLUSTRATION

Don Green Photography, Inc. Mike Schmidt Michael Schoenfeld CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jana Cunningham Paul Gabrielsen Justin Parnell Lisa Potter Michelle Taliaferro Printing

Seagull Printing Notebook is published by the University of Utah College of Science.

Direct correspondence to:

University of Utah College of Science 1430 Presidents Cir. Rm. 220 Salt Lake City, UT 84112-0140 Office: (801) 581-6958 Fax: (801) 585-3169 office@science.utah.edu Visit the College of Science at www.science.utah.edu

On the Cover Graduates of the College of Science enjoy Commencement Day ceremonies and events.

“The foundation of every state is the education of its youth”—Diogenes

Ethan Lake, Hertz Foundation Fellowship

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Dean’s Corner

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Crocker Science Center — Construction Update

8 Student Profile — Michael Zhao, Churchill Scholarship 10

Student Profile — Ethan Lake, Hertz Foundation Fellowship

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Alumni Profile — Doon Gibbs, BS’77, Math & Physics

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Charting a New Course for Advancement

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Crimson Laureate Society

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Donor Recognition and Appreciation

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Alumni Profile — Dr. Ryan Watts, BS’00, Biology

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Chemistry Forges Unbreakable Bonds

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Governor’s Medals Recognize Economic and Educational Impact

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New Class to Prepare Students for Careers

N o t e b o o k • Volum e X X V • 2017

Dean’s Corner Henry S. White Dear Alumni and Friends,

This issue of Notebook highlights key efforts that demonstrate

This issue of Notebook also features two outstanding alumni

the College’s continuing commitment to education, scientific discovery,

from the College: Doon Gibbs, BS’77 in Physics and Mathematics,

and economic impact in the State of Utah, the nation, and the world.

is the Director of Brookhaven National Laboratory in Upton, New

I am pleased to report that the Gary and Ann Crocker Science

York – one of the largest research centers in the country. He visited

Center in the newly renovated George Thomas Building on Presi-

campus on May 4 to deliver an inspiring and insightful talk to the

The College of Science strives to provide exceptional undergraduate student experiences. Today’s successful students are tomorrow’s grateful alumni. dents Circle will be completed in November. See page four for a

College of Science graduating Class of 2017. Read his story

preview of the new research and teaching resources that the

on page 12; Ryan Watts, BS’00 in Biology, co-founded Denali

Crocker Science Center will bring to the campus community,

Therapeutics in 2015 and is now on a mission to discover drug

including research laboratories for the Center for Cell and Genome

therapies for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Multiple

Science, and critically-needed undergraduate educational labs and

Sclerosis, and Parkinson’s. Read his profile on page 18.

classrooms. Classes will begin in spring semester 2018.

The College continues to provide exceptional undergraduate

engaged with the College of Science. That is why I’m excited to

experiences. For the second year in a row, one of our students has

introduce the Crimson Laureate Society. As you’ll see on page 15, the

been chosen for the prestigious Churchill Scholarship for study

Crimson Laureate Society will provide more opportunities for direct

at Cambridge University in the United Kingdom. Michael Zhao, an

involvement in the College and incentives for charitable giving.

outstanding senior in Mathematics, was one of just 15 students in

the U.S. to receive a Churchill Scholarship. We are also proud that

friends, and supporters whose generous gifts are helping to

one of our undergraduates received the highly competitive Hertz

provide a truly exceptional education for our students. Your

Foundation Fellowship, which awards $250,000 for graduate study

contributions make a difference!

I invite alumni, donors, friends and colleagues to be more

The College of Science gratefully acknowledges our alumni,

in a STEM field. College of Science Research Scholar Ethan Lake, a double major in Physics and Mathematics, was one of only 12 students nationally who received this fellowship.

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Henry S. White ­— Dean, College of Science

The College of Science is committed to student education, scientific discovery, and economic impact in Utah and around the world.

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Crocker Science Center Nearly Complete Premier Science Hub Set To Open in November

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Second, the Crocker Science Center will

O’Connor-Ririe, Harris Simmons and Amanda

at the George Thomas Building is nearly

be the new home of the Center for Cell and

Pahnke Simmons, Dinesh and Kalpana

complete. The highly-anticipated science

Genome Science (CCGS), a highly interdis-

Patel, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day

hub is scheduled to open to the public in

ciplinary research facility for faculty from all

Saints, the Sorenson Legacy Foundation, the

November 2017. Classes will be held in spring

four departments of the College as well as

George S. and Dolores Doré Eccles Foundation,

semester 2018.

other groups on campus.

the Lawrence T. & Janet T. Dee Foundation,

Third, the modern science building will

the Semnani Family Foundation, Orbital

education will commence in this historic

include a technology incubator space. The

ATK, Grandeur Peak Global Advisors, and

landmark of a building,” says Henry White, dean

technology incubator will bring together

many other friends of the College, allowed

of the College of Science. “We hope every

entrepreneurs, business experts, and scientists

construction to begin in spring of 2016.

student at the University will utilize this beautiful

to help develop and commercialize new

science center. In fact, with a projected large

scientific findings and inventions for medical,

surveyed the building site and removed the

increase in student enrollment at the U, this

technological, and other practical uses. The

old library “stacks” from the south portion of

facility couldn’t come at a better time.”

technology incubator might also be used for

the building. Crews then installed extensive

industry-inspired projects for interdisciplinary

seismic upgrades to the historic structure,

teams of students.

including concrete piers that extend under-

These three functions, operating in tandem,

ground to a depth of 50 feet and lateral drag

will allow the College of Science to continue

struts that tie the existing building into the

First, the Center will provide undergraduate

its mission of educating and training

new shear walls.

and graduate students with state-of-the-art

students in core STEM competencies and will

laboratory facilities, smaller classrooms and

help the University of Utah remain a major

continued construction on the south end of

spaces for interactive educational experi-

economic engine in the State of Utah.

the building and finished the roof. Workers

he Gary and Ann Crocker Science Center

“A new era of scientific research and

The Crocker Science Center will serve several key functions at the U

ences. The expanded building will allow an

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By April 2016, Okland Construction had

During the summer, Okland crews

had to repair and seal the old roof, and add a

increasing number of undergraduates to

A Brief Timeline

participate in research, and at an earlier stage in

The Utah legislature supported the project

their education. Curriculum in the Center will

with a $34 million higher education appro-

entire new structure for the Center for Cell

focus on increasing the number of highly

priation in 2016. The state money, combined

and Genome Science. This portion of the

qualified math graduates through integration

with donations from benefactors including

building is now entirely seismic proof and

of disciplines and teaching approaches.

Gary and Ann Crocker, Kirk Ririe and Mary Jane

vibration free to accommodate the highly

new skylight which is 30 feet by 75 feet.

By December, crews had assembled the

(Top) The original Reading Room will retain its classic barrel-vaulted ceiling. Photo taken April 12, 2017.

(Middle) View of the central atrium space with new skylight installed. Photo taken April 12, 2017.

(Bottom) Extensive new infrastructure has been installed throughout the building. Photo taken April 12, 2017.

tiling, and painting. Okland also will install sophisticated lab equipment as it arrives.

“We are profoundly grateful to the

hundreds of individual donors who have contributed to this project. Private support, which now accounts for nearly $20 million, is making all the difference in the success of this project,” says Jeff Martin, Director for Advancement in the College.

Several key funding opportunities and

permanent naming opportunities are still available in the Crocker Science Center.

Contact Jeff Martin if you or your company

sensitive research-grade optical and electron microscopes that will be housed there.

Thanks to continued support from the

University, and from private donors, construction continued through the winter months.

As of May 2017, Okland Construction

THE GARY & ANN CROCKER SCIENCE CENTER • The building has been expanded from

are interested in naming a classroom, study

its original 87,000 square feet to

space, or research laboratory.

approximately 126,000 square feet.

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• The facility will provide 6,000 square feet of new study areas and conference rooms.

• The Center for Cell and Genome Science

reports that the entire infrastructure is nearly

will be a focus of research activities

complete,

in the College of Science.

including

electrical

systems,

plumbing, water and heat. Workers will now activate and test the various systems. Crews also have installed exterior windows and air handler units, and have built the interior classroom and laboratory spaces.

In the coming months, carpenters and other specialists will finish floors, woodwork,

• A new tutoring center and student advising offices will serve the entire College of Science.

• Classrooms for 25 to 110 students will offer flexible seating for multiple teaching styles.

World Class Atomic-Resolution Microscope Headed to Crocker Science Center

New Instrument Funded by Beckman Foundation

Microscopy Core Laboratory. “If we need energy, proteins catalyze

will Enable Precise Imaging of Life’s Building Blocks

chemical reactions. If we need DNA copied, proteins catalyze that.

The University of Utah is one of just five institutions in the world

The new instrument will enable us to study these structures at a level

to be awarded a $2.5 million grant to purchase a state of the art

cryo-electron microscope (cryo-EM), the Beckman Foundation

structure of proteins, molecules, or DNA relied on X-ray crystallography,

announced in early April.

a labor-intensive process that required growing crystals of pure

that are necessary for life,” says David Belnap, director of the Electron

of detail that has not previously been possible.”

Before cryo-EM microscopy, researchers hoping to discern the

The microscope, which will be able to

samples of the protein or molecule.

visualize the structure of proteins and DNA

at an atom-by-atom scale, will be installed

treated, or enclosed as they are in

in the Crocker Science Center, which is

traditional microscopy and X-ray crystal-

currently under construction on Presidents

lography but instead are frozen instantly.

Circle. The microscope’s resolution is fine

Further, the sample does not need to be

enough to see details such as the double-

as pure as in X-ray crystallography. The

helix and ladder structure of DNA, said

microscope takes many two-dimensional

biochemistry professor Wesley Sundquist.

images of the molecule or protein and

“Biochemistry and molecular biology

the images are then computationally

take place on the atomic scale, enzymes

combined to create a three-dimensional

work on the atomic scale, drugs bind on

picture.

the atomic scale – so that’s information

The new microscope is an FEI Titan

that’s really critical for understanding how

Krios and is scheduled to begin instal-

biological processes work,” Sundquist said.

lation in November 2017, shortly after

Within the cells of our body are dynamic

worlds that have remained largely enigmatic

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“Proteins form complexes in cells that perform the functions

Research space has been custom designed to house the ultra-sensitive cryo-EM microscope and other specialized equipment.

In cryo-EM, samples are not stained,

completion of the Crocker Science Center.

The new instrument will be more power-

because they are so small. Though much of the cell’s machinery

ful and precise than the U’s current cryo-EM unit, which is housed in

is only a few billionths of a meter in size, these machines are

the Aline Wilmot Skaggs Biology Building. Because the instrument

essential. For instance, proteins work together to build the fibers of

must be assembled on site, installation will take two to three months.

our body, defend us from foreign invaders that cause disease, and

shape our DNA blueprints.

room it will eventually occupy. “We need the instrument to have stable

As they say, a picture is worth a thousand words. With the specialized

electronics and operating temperature and to hold the specimen

microscope, scientists can see the miniscule machines with their own

very still. The instrument’s components do these things very well,”

eyes, directly documenting what they look like and how they work.

says Belnap. The temperature of the room will be held to daily

The microscope’s extreme sensitivity dictated the design of the

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fluctuations of no more than 0.8 degrees Celsius (1.4 degrees

Utah. Scientists from other universities have already expressed

Fahrenheit). The ventilation system is designed to avoid disturbing

interest in scheduling time to use it. In comparison with peer

it with air flow. Even talking near the microscope during

institutions, Sundquist said, “it catches us up to the very best of the

operation could produce undesirable air movement and vibration,

Pac-12 and other leading research institutions throughout the world.”

so operators will control it from a separate room. To isolate the

instrument room from all other vibrations in the building, the

the grant application. Below are three examples from University

microscope will sit on a specially-designed concrete subfloor pad.

of Utah scientists of the research that a cryo-EM microscope

The cryo-EM instrument will be the most precise microscope in

makes possible.

Unmasking a “Silent Killer”

Researchers from across campus worked together to complete

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PHOTO CREDIT: Erhu Cao, Peter Shen

Cryo-EM image of PKD2, a protein responsible for polycystic kidney disease.

The cryo-EM generated image reveals how specific mistakes in this precisely tousled protein triggers polycystic kidney disease, the most common inherited kidney disorder. Dubbed the “silent killer,” patients with the disease often don’t know they have it until they are well into adulthood. Based on the near atomic-resolution depiction, University of Utah scientists determined why the majority of disease-causing mutations are so dire. Published in the journal Cell, they surmised that the mistakes would cause the protein to fall apart, and cease to function.

Aided greatly by the new information, they are now searching for pharmacological agents that block PKD2.

Micro-Delivery Systems for Targeted Treatments

PHOTO CREDIT: David Belnap, Jorg Votteler

Cryo-EM image of nanocages developed to deliver therapeutics to targeted sites in the body.

Like a micro lunar lander, soccer ball-shaped “nanocages” were designed to emerge from cells, travel through space, dock onto another bank of cells, and empty their contents. The miniature journey was documented by cryo-EM imaging and published in the top-journal Nature last year. Scientists from the University of Utah and University of Washington had developed DNA blueprints that instruct human cells to assemble the micro delivery system, inspired by the way viruses spread infection. Though the distance traveled was microscopic, the implications could be significant. U investigators are using cryo-EM to evaluate potential applications, including for delivering drugs and therapeutics to specific sites within the body.

Caught in the Act

PHOTO CREDIT: Janet Iwasa

Cryo-EM depiction of amino acids making proteins without DNA instructions.

The scientists couldn’t believe their eyes when they witnessed a molecular feat that defied their imagination, an accomplishment made possible by cryo-EM. What the team from the University of Utah, University of Washington, and University of California, San Francisco saw were proteins making proteins, independent of a DNA blueprint. Think of an auto assembly line that makes cars without using instructions. But in the case of the instruction-free protein, the odd product might have a specific purpose , the scientists published in the journal Science. It could be part of a quality control mechanism that signals when the assembly line is not working properly. The scientists are now investigating whether defective quality control could be at least partly responsible for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s.

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Student Profile

Michael Zhao, a Salt Lake City native and senior in mathematics

pursuing an honors degree at the U, has received the prestigious

a software-testing framework that allowed engineers to select exactly

Churchill Scholarship to study at the University of Cambridge in

the servers they needed to handle login action in their software tests,

the United Kingdom. Zhao is one of only 15 students in the U.S. to

thereby reducing computer memory usage and server startup times.

receive this award and is the second Churchill Scholar from the U.

industry he chooses,” said Tyler Sellmayer, Zhao’s supervisor at

“It’s a common perception that skill in mathematics is only due

This past summer, Zhao was an intern at Google. He developed

“He is on a path to becoming a very powerful figure in whatever

Michael Zhao, Chur chill Schol ar to talent, but hard work counts for much more,” said Zhao. “Having

Google. “His superpower is the ability to hold an enormous abstract

mentors is also extremely helpful, and I am indebted to many

structure in his head, and to speak intelligently about any aspect of

faculty members, graduate students and engineers for their

it at any time.”

guidance and encouragement.”

Zhao was drawn to math at an early age. Through an “Art of

His thesis advisor, Gordan Savin, says of Zhao: “Mike is one of the strongest

Problem Solving” online course he was introduced to number theory.

undergraduate students we have had since I have been at the University

He likens this first encounter to how the Hubble Space Telescope

of Utah, more than 20 years. For someone his age, he already has an

revealed thousands of ancient galaxies in what appeared to be a

incredible level of maturity and mathematical knowledge.”

small, blank patch of the night sky.

In high school, he attended the Canada/USA Mathcamp and

of Advanced Study in Pure Mathematics at Cambridge starting in

took math courses at the U. Upon graduating he was awarded a four-

the fall. Upon completion, Zhao plans to come back to the U.S. to

year Eccles Scholarship – supported by the George S. and Dolores

complete his doctorate in mathematics focusing on number theory.

Doré Eccles Foundation –to continue his studies at the U.

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Currently, Zhao is working on his Honor’s thesis in number theory.

Zhao will use the Churchill Scholarship to pursue a Master

“It wasn’t easy to choose in what area I wanted to specialize,

In his freshman year at the U, Zhao took a yearlong reading course

even within computer science and mathematics, since they were all

exploring algebraic number theory with Gordan Savin, a professor in

very exciting. Only by trying many different things – an internship,

mathematics. He continued his studies by taking reading courses with

several research projects – was I able to make a decision,” said Zhao.

Dragan Milicic, a professor in mathematics, and graduate courses in

Zhao aspires to become a professor, and hopes to make contributions

algebraic geometry, number theory, and representation theory.

to pure mathematics through research and teaching.

“We often have discussions on various topics related to these

“Many times, pure mathematics research found its way to

courses. I was always impressed that talking to Mike feels more like

important applications, such as cryptography, relativity and GPS. From

talking with a colleague and not a student,” said Milicic.

a different perspective, I believe research is important since it enriches

society just as much as art, literature or philosophy,” said Zhao.

Zhao has also done research in computer science. In the summer

of 2015, he participated in the Research in Industrial Projects for

Students Program held on the campus of the Hong Kong University

Winston Churchill, provides undergraduates with outstanding academic

of Science and Technology. His project used computer vision

achievement in the science, technology, engineering and math fields

techniques to create a logo recognition application for Android

the opportunity to complete a one-year master’s program at the

phones. In spring 2016, he was awarded the prestigious Barry

University of Cambridge. The Churchill Scholarship has been called

Goldwater scholarship for excellence in STEM research.

“the most academically challenging of the U.K. scholarships.”

The Churchill Scholarship, established in 1963 at the request of

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“ Recipient

Mike is one of the strongest undergraduate students we have had since I have

been at the University of Utah, more than 20 years.

For someone his age, he already has an incredible level of maturity and mathematical knowledge.

Gordan Savin Honors Thesis Advisor

�

Ethan Lake,

“

Ethan’s strong interpersonal

and collaborative skills are

extraordinary for someone who has advanced to the frontiers of science so early in his career. He is on a trajectory to become one of the leading lights of theoretical physics in the 21st century.

Michael Hermele University of Colorado

”

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Student Profile

Ethan Lake, an undergraduate student in physics and math, has

quantization, to an expert in exotic p-wave superconductivity and

received the prestigious and highly competitive Hertz Foundation Fel-

many-body perturbation theory,” said Starykh. “This progress is truly

lowship, a $250,000 grant for up to five years of graduate study in a STEM

amazing and in my experience, unprecedented.”

field. Lake is one of only 12 students nationally to receive this award and

the second Hertz Fellow from the U. The first Hertz Fellowship at the U

topological quantum matter and in spring 2016 he was awarded the

was awarded to Eric Kelson in 1989.

prestigious Barry Goldwater scholarship for excellence in STEM research.

In fall 2015, Lake joined professor Yong-Shi Wu’s group to study

H e rt z F o u n d at i o n F e l l o w s h i p

“Ethan’s receipt of the Hertz Fellowship has opened the door for

This past summer he attended the premier summer school on topological

other U students to follow in his footsteps,” said Ruth Watkins, Senior Vice

quantum matter at the University of Colorado at Boulder. In the school’s

President for Academic Affairs at the U. “We have no doubt Ethan will

17-year history, Lake was one of only three undergraduate students

continue to make a significant contribution to research and be an

invited to participate. He also participated in a National Science Foundation

excellent representative of our University and state.”

Research Experience for Undergraduates program with Michael Hermele,

associate professor of physics at the University of Colorado at Boulder.

The Hertz Fellowship, established in 1963 by the Fannie and John

Hertz Foundation, seeks to support America’s most promising students

in the applied physical, biological and engineering sciences who possess

for someone who has advanced to the frontiers of science so early in

technical talent and the potential to solve difficult, real world problems.

his career,” said Hermele. “Ethan is on a trajectory to become one of the

leading lights of theoretical physics in the 21st century.”

This year, 721 students applied and went through a rigorous

“His strong interpersonal and collaborative skills are extraordinary

merit-based process. The top 150 applicants were invited for an

in-depth technical interview and of those, 40 were invited back

has written an astonishing six first-authored publications with another

for a second interview, with each interview increasing in difficulty.

three papers either submitted or in progress. Through his research, he has

collaborated with scholars at various institutions around the world,

“I found the application process, especially the interviews, to be

During his undergraduate career in the College of Science, Lake

intellectually rewarding and very enjoyable,” said Lake. “I would definitely

including Princeton, Caltech, Peking University and Tokyo University.

encourage other students to apply.”

patience, and I appreciate the freedom they’ve given me to explore

Lake’s passion for science began a world away in astrophysics. In

“I’m very grateful to the mentors I’ve worked with for their constant

his first year at the U, he joined professor Zheng Zheng’s computational

and think about research problems independently,” added Lake.

astrophysics group where he studied the environments surrounding

galaxies in the early universe and the gravitational microlensing of

condensed matter theory and quantum information theory. In this

extrasolar asteroid belts.

field, he has found a balance between his aptitude for abstract

mathematics and his desire to work on problems that can be tested

“I’m extremely impressed by Ethan’s strong learning and research

Lake is currently studying the role that topology plays in

abilities and by his curiosity and creativity,” said Zheng.

with experiments. He plans to perform related work in graduate

school, while pursuing a doctorate in theoretical physics.

After his second year, Lake made an impulsive decision to switch to

condensed matter theory, and began working on a problem in theoreti-

cal superconductivity with professors Dima Pesin and Oleg Starykh.

explore different areas of theoretical physics. Graduate school is

going to be a ton of fun,” said Lake.

“Ethan has progressed steadily from a theoretical physics novice,

“I’m psyched to use the freedom this fellowship grants me to

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learning such basic theory as unitary transformations and second 11

Alumni Profile

Doon Gibbs Director of Brookhaven National Laboratory The College of Science alumni profile features Doon Gibbs, BS’77, in Physics & Mathematics.

A lumni Doon Gibbs is currently the Director of Brookhaven

Upon graduation, Doon moved to Portland to attend Reed College,

National Laboratory in Upton, New York. Brookhaven is a multi-program

a private liberal arts school. After two years, he returned to Utah and

U.S. Department of Energy laboratory with nearly 3,000 employees,

enrolled at the U. He worked on campus as a writer and reporter with

more than 4,000 facility users each year, and an annual budget of

The Daily Utah Chronicle, the University’s student newspaper.

about $600 million.

Brookhaven Lab’s largest facilities include the National Synchrotron

Gibbs. “But, there was one physics course that sounded intriguing.

Light Source II, the Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider, and the Center for

It was Gale Dick’s entry-level class, ‘Physics for Poets.’ I signed up for

Functional Nanomaterials – some of the finest research instruments

summer semester 1974. Despite my best efforts to not do exactly

in the world.

what my dad did, I found that physics was totally compelling.”

But Doon’s story begins in Utah.

Doon was born in Illinois, where his father was a post doc, but

his major to Mathematics in 1975, added a Physics major in 1976 and

grew up in Salt Lake City near the University of Utah. His father, Peter

graduated with both degrees in 1977. He was a member of the Phi

Gibbs, was a prominent physics professor at the U, and his mother,

Beta Kappa and Phi Kappa Phi honor societies.

Miriam, was a school teacher at Wasatch Elementary in the Avenues

district. The family home was just off First Avenue and Virginia Street,

the U, and chairman of the department from 1967-1976, Doon didn’t

only a few blocks from campus.

take a single class from his dad.

Education was a priority in the Gibbs’ home. Doon and his

younger siblings, Victoria and Nicholas, attended East High School.

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“I tried just about everything else except physics in school,” says

Additional physics and math classes soon followed. He changed

Although his father was a well known professor of physics at

“Well, I got physics lessons from my dad every day, but it was

usually at home on the front porch or in the kitchen,” says Gibbs.

Not ebo o k • Vo l um e X X V • 2017

“I didn’t get any college credit, but it was a lot of fun,” he chuckles.

for an increasingly complex world. The ability to analyze and creatively

Throughout his education, Doon’s parents were encouraging and pa-

solve complicated problems is a wonderful advantage,” says Gibbs.

tient supporters. “I owe a great debt of gratitude to my parents, who

instilled a curiosity for learning and a strong work ethic,” says Gibbs.

of Brookhaven’s Center for Functional Nanomaterials, and has played

Doon pursued a Master’s degree in physics at the University

a significant role in advancing other major Lab projects including the

of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, ironically, the same school at which

National Synchrotron Light Source II and the Interdisciplinary Science

his father had been a post doc. He stayed at Illinois to complete a

Building. He has also overseen the growth of Brookhaven’s basic

doctorate degree in condensed matter physics in 1982, the same

energy sciences programs in chemistry, materials science, nanoscience,

field as his dad, although Doon is an experimenter and his father is a

and condensed matter physics.

theorist. During this time, his research interests focused on the utili-

zation of synchrotron radiation to perform spectroscopy of surfaces.

Gibbs. “In the next decade, we hope to expand our nuclear and

After graduate school, Doon found an entry-level job as an

particle physics efforts to build a next-generation electron-ion collider,

assistant physicist. The place was Brookhaven National Laboratory.

among other projects. In general, national labs develop and use

Gibbs was instrumental in overseeing the design and construction

“Brookhaven is moving in new and exciting directions,” says

The year was 1983.

At Brookhaven, he specialized in condensed matter physics and X-ray magnetic scattering and was promoted to a senior physicist in 2000.

In 2003, Gibbs was honored with the Advanced Photon Source

Arthur H. Compton Award “for pioneering theoretical and experimental work in resonant X-ray magnetic scattering, which has led to many

The National Synchrotron Light Source-II is a state-of-the-art, medium energy electron storage ring that offers scientific and industrial researchers an array of beam lines with x-ray, ultraviolet, and infrared light. It cost $912 million to design and build.

science and technology to address critical issues such as energy security, national and nuclear security and environmental clean-up.”

Doon met his wife, Teri Barbero, on a blind date in New York City.

“We went to a cool Indian restaurant in midtown,” recalls Gibbs. “We were inseparable after that, and were married about a year later.”

Teri is the owner and lead instructor at Studio B, a children’s art

studio in St. James. She received a MFA in Photography from C.W. Post, important applications in condensed matter physics.” He was named

Long Island University in 1985 and holds permanent New York State

Deputy Laboratory Director for Science and Technology in 2007.

certifications in Elementary Education and Art.

By 2010, Gibbs’management experiences at Brookhaven included

The couple lives in Setauket, New York, have two sons, Theo, 20,

the positions of Group Leader of X-ray Scattering, Associate and

and Alex, 18 and enjoy skiing, soccer, and backyard barbecues.

Deputy Chair of Physics, Head of Condensed Matter Physics, Interim

Director of the Center for Functional Nanomaterials, and Associate

father is always ready with a physics lesson for the youngster.

Doon visits Utah on occasion to visit friends and family. His N

Laboratory Director for Basic Energy Sciences.

Most recently, Gibbs was appointed Director of Brookhaven

National Laboratory in 2013. “A science background is a great preparation

Editor’s note: Doon Gibbs delivered the keynote speech at the College of Science convocation ceremony in the Huntsman Center on May 4, 2017. His father, Peter, was in attendance along with siblings Victoria and Nicholas and their families.

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N o t e b o o k • Volum e X X V • 2017

C h a rt in g a N e w C o u r se f or C ol l e g e of S c ie n c e A d va n c e m e n t J e f f M a rt in E xecutive Director for Institutional Advancement

Greetings from the University of Utah!

In July 2016, I accepted the newly-created role

for granted. However, everyone from doctors and

of Executive Director for Institutional Advancement

pharmacists to architects and patent attorneys use

in the College of Science. I am excited to bring my

the fundamental knowledge and problem-solving

alumni engagement and fundraising experience to

skills they gained in the College of Science to better

the U, and I’m truly honored to serve our commu-

prepare themselves for their professional degrees

nity of 18,737 College of Science alumni and donors

and careers.

living around the world.

The College of Science and its academic

we aren’t going to rest on our laurels. We’re going to

departments – Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics,

continue to work hard to further advance the frontiers

At times, foundational science education is taken

Although the College has attained great success,

and Physics and Astronomy – have a wonderful history. From Nobel

prize-winning

faculty

and National Medal of Science honorees, to alumni who have founded a Fortune 500 company (Adobe) and developed ground-breaking

14

of science and build upon the

The College of Science is an integral part of the University of Utah. Nearly every student who graduates from the U takes at least one class in our College.

technologies

legacy of those who paved the way before us.

But we can’t do it without your help. That is why we’re excited to introduce the Crimson Laureate Society this year. As you’ll see on page 15, the Crimson

for the entertainment industry (Pixar), the College of

Laureate Society will provide our alumni and friends

Science has made a profound impact on the world.

more opportunities for direct involvement in the

The College of Science is an integral part of the

College of Science as well as incentives for charitable

University of Utah. Nearly every student who graduates

giving and an enthusiastic community of science

from the U takes at least one class in our College. For

advocates.

example, the Chemistry Department has the highest

number of Minor degree recipients on campus,

of our alumni, donors and friends. Your philanthropic

while the Math Department taught more than 7,600

gifts support deserving students, scholarship

students in Fall semester alone – more than any

programs, and award-winning faculty research and

other department on campus.

education in the College of Science.

We are deeply grateful for the steadfast support

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Crimson Laureate Society to Enhance Participation & Support The Crimson Laureate Society is a new group for people dedicated to the advancement of science and mathematics at the University of Utah.

As a Crimson Laureate Society member, you can be an advocate for science in your community, making your voice heard as we work together with educators, legislators and business leaders to create new science programs and curricula throughout Utah.

You’ll also gain VIP access to events that present

cutting-edge science from the U and around the world, while your philanthropic contributions will support students, scholarships, and faculty research in Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics and Astronomy.

As a member, you will have access to a number

of exclusive benefits, including:

• VIP invitations and seating at featured

• Recognition on the College of Science’s

• Opportunities to engage with our talented

• Recognition in the Notebook magazine

• Venues for networking with College of

• Special tokens of appreciation that signify

College of Science events

permanent donor display on campus.

and accomplished faculty

and on the College of Science website Science alumni and friends your membership level

In the next couple of weeks, you will receive a special Crimson Laureate Society package in the mail – you’ll know it when you see it. We look forward to welcoming you as the newest member of this exclusive group!

A gift of at least $100 to any area in the College of Science will automatically make you a member of the Crimson Laureate Society, and will advance our education and research mission.

More information can be found online at www.science.utah.edu/cls.

11

D onor Re cog ni tion The following lists represent gifts of at least $250 made to any area in the College of Science, including Departments, Centers, and Programs, between July 1, 2016 and March 31, 2017. Standard University group designations are used. We are extremely grateful for each of these generous supporters.

BENEFACTORS

DESERET CLUB

PRESIDENT’S CLUB

Gifts totaling $1 Million or more

Gifts of $25,000 to $49,999

Gifts of $2,500 to $9,999

The Church of Jesus Christ

Fidelity Charitable Gift Fund

ARUP Laboratories

Willard L. Eccles Charitable Foundation

ATK Launch Systems Group

of Latter-day Saints Gary and Ann Crocker

Carlos* & Ann Bowman Rodney H. & Carolyn Brady Foundation

ASSOCIATES Gifts of $100,000 to $499,999

PRESIDENT’S CIRCLE

Cynthia J. Burrows & Scott L. Anderson

Gifts of at least $10,000

Sandra Calman

Frederick R. Adler & Anne Collopy

The Sorenson Legacy Foundation

Chevron

George D. and Camilla Smith

Denise Dearing & Michael J. Bastiani Naomi C. Franklin Laurie A. Fraser & Mario R. Capecchi

FOUNDERS CLUB

Raymond F. & Harriet M. Gesteland

Gifts of $50,000 to $99,999

Judy M. Goddard & Kirk R. Thomas

Lawrence T. & Janet T. Dee Foundation Willard L. & Ruth P. Eccles Foundation Larry H. Miller & Gail Miller Family Foundation George R. Riser Harris H. & Amanda P. Simmons Foundation

Raymond B. & Julie R. Greer Theodore & Elizabeth Gurney Diana M. & Mitchell T. Johnson Koc Universitesi Hamit Batubay Oezkan Dinesh & Kalpana Patel Foundation John & Shery Roth Gail T. Rushing Revocable Trust Harry S. Sloane Foundation Robert K. & Marcia H. Vickery

Charitable Flex Fund Sue M. Durrant James R. & Edna M. Ehleringer Sidney J. & Marian C. Green Jordan River Commission George H. Lowe and Elizabeth Regan Herbert I. & Elsa B. Michael Foundation Elaine J. & Joel S. Miller Mark T. & Brenda Nielsen Baldomero M. & Lourdes L. Olivera Research Corp for Science Advancement Rocky Mountain Power Foundation Victoria J. Rowntree & Jon Seger Susan K. Rushing Schwab Fund for Charitable Giving T3S Technologies Constance R. & Marcus G. Theodore Rebecca A. Uhlig & Thaddeus B. Eagar United States Dept Of Interior Vanguard Charitable Endowment Doju Yoshikami

16

DEAN’S CIRCLE

DEAN’S CLUB

COLLEGIATE CLUB

Gifts of $1,000 to $2,499

Gifts of $500 to $999

Gifts of $250 to $499

Maria C. & Bradley M. Andreason

Anna M. & Lawrence Okun

Mark G. & Linda L. Conish

Ntsanderh C. Azenui

Charles H. & Judy J. Atwood

Orbital ATK

Ryan J. & Charlotte Conlon

Phillip J. & Michelle R. Barry

David F. Blair

Marjorie N. Parry

Roy & Elaine Corsi

Lane C. & Paula W. Childs

Jean C. & Dennis M. Bramble

Timothy J. & Jessica S. Purcell

Ruggiero S. Costanzo

Arthur S. & Katherine V. Edison

Carol B. & Patrick Brennan

Bryant & Betty Rossiter Trust

Sally M. & John E. Crelly

Donald Feener

Reneé L. & Glenn S. Buchanan

Kenneth A. Savin & Lisa A. Wenzler

Vincent Jo & Antoinette H. Davisson

Karla Jean Gilbert

Burak Over

Karoline J. Sheffield

Dell EMC

Robert D. Guy

David & Susan S. Carlebach

Society For Science & The Public

William J. & Carolyn H. Dickinson

Carol Korzeniewski

Carleton DeTar & Laurel Casjens

Margaret A. & John P. Simons

William R. & Sylvia R. Gray

Jay H. Linam

Norman J. Dovichi & Susan Sharpe

Tempiute Development Co.

Narayan S. Hosmane

Noel E. & Rosemary Marquis

George C. & Lisbeth L. Elliott

William B. & Vivien Terzaghi

Illumina, Inc.

A. Wayne & Angela M. Middleton

Cecelia H. Foxley

United States Figure Skating

Dennis L. & Patricia A. Lombardi

Nicole L. Mihalopoulos

Clifton D. & Terrie T. McIntosh

William L. & Jane E. Moore

Kenneth M. Golden

Association

Ed & Yvonne Groenhout

Carrie & Travis T. Wager

David S. & Viera I. Moore

Allen K. & Anne Kitamura Oshita

Robert J.& Marianne H. Gubler

Workman Nydegger

Frances P. Muir Revocable Family Trust

Carl J. & Barbara Popp

Randall W. Holt

Xiao-Rong Zhu & Ping Hou

Anita M. Orendt

Peter E. & Susan E. Rogers

Hua Huang & Minmin Lin

XMISSION L.C.

J. Joseph & Meredith Perry

Alan S. & Cheryl R. Rothenberg

Nan and Erik M. Jorgensen

Walter M. Reid

Jonathan M. Rubin & Gretta Spier

Kaizen Investments LLC

Carl L. & Kathryn S. Robinson

Dennis B. & Barbara H. Sagendorf

Paul & Jenny M. Keim

Bob Sanchez

Duc D. Tran & Hien Do

David & Lisa Kieda

James W. Sewell

Jacob T. & Erin L. Umbriaco

Hee K. & Sung W. Kim

Mark H. Sherwood

United Way of Salt Lake

Jacobsen Lake Foundation

Matthew S. Sigman and Deborah

Neil & Tanya Vickers

Sharon R. & Frank G. Meyer

Burney-Sigman

Andrew Laing Middleton

Gregory J. & Jenny P.* Skedros

Janet E. Muir & David Suehsdorf

Cameron J. & Melanie T. Soelberg

Stanley A. & Jane S. Mulaik

Martheswaran Solamuthu

Jim Muller

Gregory Paul Starley Trust

RJay Murray

Dean J. & Samantha Stoker

Lora B. & Eric S. Newman

Streeper, LLC

Clifford W. & Susan A. Nichols

Warner Wada

Ruth L. & Phillip J.* Novak

Michael R. & Jan Weaver

Lane J. & Rhonda L. Wallace

17

Dr. Ryan Watts, third from left, with team members Steve Krognes, Carole Ho, Alexander Schuth.

Summiting the tallest mountain in North America is a significant undertaking and a life-changing accomplishment. Denali is not only the tallest mountain on

Alumni Profile

Dr. Ryan Watts Q u e s t to C on q u e r N e u r od e g e ne r at i v e I l l ne s se s

the continent but the tallest

18

passion that would determine his career path. Along with his undergraduate research experience, Ryan also served as a teaching assistant for Dr. Baldomero “Toto” Olivera

mountain in the world measured from

world due to improved nutrition and effective

and was a Pediatric Technician in Surgery at

above ground base to peak. As such, the

treatments for some diseases, Alzheimer’s

Primary Children’s Medical Center.

challenge and potential of mountaineering

disease and other age-related neurodegenera-

are reflected in both the name and purpose of

tive diseases are reaching epidemic propor-

interactions with Dr. Olivera because he recog-

Denali Therapeutics, a biotechnology company

tions. Expressed solely in financial terms, the

nized how Olivera’s biochemical insights could

focused on finding treatments and cures for

cost of treating people with Alzheimer’s and

be translated into treatments for pain. Ryan

degenerative illnesses, such as Alzheimer’s and

other dementias is estimated to exceed $260

excelled in the lab and the classroom, and

Parkinson’s disease.

billion by 2020 in the U.S. alone.

upon graduation was accepted into Stanford

A product and proponent of public edu-

University’s Biological Sciences doctoral pro-

surprising when you meet the CEO and

cation, Watts graduated from Cottonwood

gram. Watts recalls that there were just a few

Co-Founder of Denali Therapeutics, Dr. Ryan

High School and came to the University of Utah,

fellow students from his graduate school class

Watts. A College of Science alumnus in

reflecting his desire to attend a top-tier

who had completed their undergraduate

Biology, Watts gained an early appreciation for

research institution. As an undergraduate,

degrees at public institutions, but that his

mountains growing up in Holladay, Utah, in the

Watts was still figuring out where he wanted to

experiences at the U had prepared him well.

shadow of Mount Olympus.

focus his talents. He started out as a Chemistry

Now, Watts and his colleagues are

student, but saw the fields of Cell Biology and

himself in research and received his Ph.D. in

passionate about discovering drug therapies

Human Genetics as the future. However, it

2004, focusing on the molecules that regulate

to help over 22 million people across the world

wasn’t until he got the opportunity to conduct

nervous system development. Afterwards, he

who are fighting crippling neurodegenerative

undergraduate research in the Department

accepted a position at Genentech, a company

illnesses. As life expectancies rise across the

of Biology that Ryan discovered the

known for breaking new ground cloning human

This association with mountains is less

Watts was particularly impacted by his

At Stanford, Ryan continued to distinguish

genes. During his eleven-year tenure there,

are difficult to track. In contrast to cancer,

to ascend a peak, the researchers at Denali

Watts and his colleagues focused initially on

neurodegeneration is both more difficult to

Therapeutics are equipped with deep knowl-

developing therapies for cancer, then switched

target than cancerous tumors and has fewer

edge, interdisciplinary specializations, and a

their attention to neurodegenerative diseases.

and less well-defined biomarkers. Interventions

diverse set of approaches to problem solving,

He led Genentech’s entry into Alzheimer’s

also tend to be slower-acting, and it takes

ready to pursue their goal of finding a cure for

disease discovery and drug development,

longer to see whether a treatment had

neurodegenerative illnesses and advancing

eventually building and leading their newly

positive, negative, or no effect.

scientific research.

created Neuroscience Labs.

oping medicines to stop neurodegeneration:

Watts and a select group of neuroscientists

and investors eventually formed a biotech

• A lack of drug targets

startup named Denali Therapeutics. In contrast

• Passing the blood-brain barrier to

to the broad approach of companies like

get drugs into the brain

Genentech, Denali would be fully specialized

• Difficulty in identifying biomarkers

in solving the mystery of neurodegeneration.

Watts cites four major barriers to devel-

to track drug activity

Founded in 2015, and headquartered in

•

South San Francisco, Denali Therapeutics has already raised more than $349 million and

Reflecting on his time as a student at

the U, Watts has some advice for the current generation of students.

“Build connections with the great faculty at the U and explore opportunities to get in the research lab as soon as possible. Top notch research

Identifying the right dose for the

universities like the U offer a

right patient at the right time.

unique chance to discover

grown to more than 110 employees. Watts

and his colleagues have the talent, passion

that he first heard while sitting at a microscope

and focus needed to take on these devastating

in the Skaggs Biology Building at the U: “chance

and the vision that Denali Therapeutics could

illnesses, but recognize that it will be incredibly

favors only the prepared mind.” Watts applies

better humankind. And it was as an under-

difficult as they are blazing new trails.

this principle at Denali Therapeutics, where the

graduate student at the U that Watts first

As the name Denali suggests, the treat-

team has been assembled with experienced

discovered this drive and began acquiring the

ment and study of neurodegenerative diseases

drug developers combined with some of the

skills needed to make his vision a reality.

pose significant challenges. These conditions,

best researchers in the field of neuroscience.

and therefore the therapies targeting them,

Like a team of mountain climbers preparing

Editor’s note: The Watts family tradition at the University of Utah will continue this coming fall. Ryan’s oldest son, Tanner, will be enrolled as a freshman, planning to study bioengineering.

Watts recalls a quote from Louis Pasteur

original insights as part of your education.”

Watts is driven both by a love for research

N

19

Chemistry Forges Unbreakable Bonds Faculty Mentors Catalyze Students’ Success

W ith help from a generous donation, the Department of Chemis-

in his 43-year tenure. He was highly regarded as a dedicated and

try named a lecture hall and established an endowed lecture series to

brilliant teacher. His passion for teaching and love of science are

recognize alumni Bryant A. Miner and his faculty mentor Henry Eyring.

evident in his impact on his numerous students.

The auditorium in the Thatcher Chemistry Building, Room 4630,

The inaugural Henry Eyring and Bryant A. Miner Lectureships in

will be named The Henry Eyring and Bryant A. Miner Lecture Theater

Chemistry were held on March 27 and 28 in the newly named lecture

in permanent recognition of the profound mentor-based partnership

theater. The presentations, held in tandem, featured two outstand-

shared between two chemists important in the department’s history.

ing chemists – Robert H. Grubbs of Caltech and Melanie S. Sanford of

“This lecture theater is a fitting

the University of Michigan,

tribute to Eyring and Miner,” says

whose strong mentor-based

Cynthia Burrows, Chemistry De-

professional and academic

partment chair. “Students, faculty

relationship resembles that

and distinguished guests use this

of

space to share new knowledge

Bryant Miner.

and discoveries, to stimulate new

Eyring

and

“To my knowledge, there

discussions and collaborations.”

is no other program on

Henry Eyring established the

campus with the same em-

University’s Graduate School and

phasis on this academic

developed the Chemistry Depart-

relationship,” says Burrows.

ment into a national research and education powerhouse.

20

Henry

Grubbs was the thesis Nobel laureate Robert H. Grubbs presents the first Eyring/Miner Lectureship on March 27, 2017 in the Chemistry Department.

Eyring served as Bryant Miner’s

advisor for Sanford while she completed her doctorate

graduate thesis advisor while Miner earned his doctorate degree in

degree at the California Institute of Technology in 2001.

chemistry in 1965. Eyring and Miner enjoyed a fulfilling academic and

professional relationship that spanned some 20 years.

closely with him on research in organometallic chemistry and

Miner went on to a long and successful career at Weber State

synthetic chemistry, particularly the development of novel catalysts

University in Ogden where he taught chemistry to countless students

for olefin metathesis. In fact, the title of Sanford’s own doctoral

Sanford had joined Grubbs’ research group in 1998 and worked

Not ebo o k • Vo l um e X X V • 2017

Grubbs would go on to win a Nobel Prize in Chemistry for his work on “the development of the metathesis method in organic synthesis,” while Sanford received a prestigious MacArthur Fellowship in 2011 and was named an American Chemical Society Fellow in 2016.

Sanford was also elected to the National Academy of Sciences and

the American Academy of Arts and Sciences in 2016, and is now the Moses Gomberg Distinguished Professor of Chemistry at the University of Michigan. She currently advises 15 graduate students and seven postdoctoral researchers in her lab.

Grubbs and Sanford continue to enjoy an academic and

professional relationship that’s already spanned some 20 years.

“Bob continues to inspire me as both a mentor and a scientist. This

lectureship was a great opportunity to spend some time with him and to see the amazing science that continues in his lab,” says Sanford.

The endowed Henry Eyring and Bryant A. Miner Lectureships will

be offered each year in the Department of Chemistry.

“In future Eyring and Miner lectureships, we will continue to

thesis was Synthetic and Mechanistic Investigations of Ruthenium

emphasize the invaluable mentor-based academic relationships that

Olefin Metathesis Catalysts.

often occur in graduate level research,” says Burrows.

N

“Working with Bob was one of the best decisions of my life. His

mentoring style helped me grow into the scientist that I am today, and his continued support has been instrumental in my success.”

Editor’s note: Melanie S. Sanford also is working closely with University of Utah chemists Matthew Sigman and Shelley Minteer on a Department of Energy Joint Center for Energy Storage Research project to develop redox flow batteries for better storage of renewable energy sources.

HENRY EYRING

BRYANT MINER

ROBERT GRUBBS

MELANIE SANFORD

served as the Dean

earned his doctorate

is the Victor and

received her bachelor’s

of the Graduate

degree in Chemistry

Elizabeth Atkins Pro-

degree and Master’s

School and as

from the University

fessor of Chemistry

degree in chemistry

a Chemistry

of Utah in 1965,

at the California

at Yale University.

Department

during which time

Institute of Tech-

She pursued gradu-

faculty member at the University of Utah

Henry Eyring, his uncle, served as his thesis

nology. His main research interests are in

ate studies at Caltech, working with Profes-

from 1946 to 1981, positions which greatly

advisor and mentor.

organometallic chemistry and synthetic

sor Robert H. Grubbs, where she investigat-

benefitted the growing graduate research

chemistry, particularly the development of

ed the mechanism of ruthenium-catalyzed

programs within the Department of

Weber State University for 43 years, which

novel catalysts for olefin metathesis.

olefin metathesis reactions. Following

Chemistry and the University as a whole.

he considered to be his greatest passion. He

Grubbs has received many honors for

postdoctoral work at Princeton, she joined

He authored more than 600 scientific

was often described as a brilliant teacher

his scientific achievements including the

the faculty at the University of Michigan

articles and several scientific books, including

and was named Professor Emeritus of

Arthur C. Cope Award, the ACS Herbert

in 2003.

those expounding on the harmony between

Chemistry at Weber State.

C. Brown Award for Creative Research in

Currently, she is developing the de-

science and religion.

Throughout his life he expressed a great

Synthetic Methods, and the Nobel Prize

sign and synthesis of unique anolyte and

Known for his energy and good health,

love of travel, service, and above all things,

for Chemistry in 2005. He has been a

catholyte molecules for applications in

he often participated in footraces with his

his family. His dedication to teaching and

member of the National Academy of

non-aqueous redox flow batteries, which

research students and would calm tense

love of science are a lasting testament to

Sciences since 1989, and was the 2000

have great potential for grid-scale storage

situations with his numerous athletic feats.

chemists everywhere.

recipient of the Benjamin Franklin Medal.

of renewable energy sources.

Aside from his pioneering science, his last-

He is a Fellow of the American Academy

She received a prestigious MacArthur

ing legacy to the Chemistry Department

of Arts and Sciences and the Royal Society

Fellowship in 2011 and was named an

is one of tenacity, intelligence and humor.

of Chemistry.

American Chemical Society Fellow in 2016.

Miner went on to teach chemistry at

21

N o t e b o o k • Volum e X X V • 2017

Governor’s Medals

Recognize the Contributions of

Science Faculty and Benefactor

In January, Governor Gary R. Herbert, along with

Utah’s students and communities,” says Henry White, Dean of the College of Science. “These efforts support

the Utah Science Technology and Research (USTAR)

a robust local economy and a high standard of living in Utah.”

initiative and the Governor’s Office for Economic Development (GOED), announced the winners of the prestigious Governor’s

Medals for Science and Technology.

undergraduate and graduate students. She has published more than

Cynthia J. Burrows, Distinguished Professor of Chemistry, and

200 papers in peer-reviewed journals and advised more than 30 doctoral

Adam Beehler, Physics Education Specialist, were selected along with

students who have completed PhD degrees. She also has secured more

Lawrence Thatcher, CEO of the Thatcher Group and a benefactor of the

than $10 million of external research grants and private funding for the

College of Science.

University and the College of Science.

“The medal recipients are true leaders in innovation, serving as

Beehler joined the U in 2006. Over the past 10 years, he has taught

educators, mentors and influencers statewide,” Gov. Herbert said.

70,000 students across Utah about science and physics as part of a

“Innovation drives Utah’s thriving economy and unmatched quality of

comprehensive public outreach program — the most extensive at the

life. I commend the winners for excellence in their fields and for their

University of Utah. In addition, he teaches several physics classes at the

important work, which will benefit Utah residents for generations.”

U and prepares all of the lecture demonstrations for the Department of

Physics & Astronomy.

College of Science faculty and staff have earned 10 Governor’s

Medals since 2010, and a remarkable 28 total Medals since the

program’s inception in 1987.

the Thatcher Chemical company in Salt Lake City in 1967. Fifty years

The economic impact of these 28 College of Science members,

later, the Thatcher Group, Inc., continues to be a diversified chemical

including Burrows and Beehler, on Utah’s economy and the national

manufacturer and distributor, and a key member of Utah’s business

economy can be measured in millions of dollars and thousands of jobs.

community. The company employs hundreds of people and is based

The research impact on Utah’s academic and scientific communities

in Salt Lake with operations in seven other states.

can be measured in volumes of publications, journals, patents and

products. The education impact on Utah’s students and citizens can

have been awarded to Utah residents and companies who have

be measured in scores and generations of successful University and

provided distinguished service or made significant contributions

College of Science alumni.

to Utah’s advanced scientific and technological knowledge, education

and industry.

“Year after year, College of Science faculty and staff perform

exceptional scientific research and provide valuable education to 22

Burrows joined the U in 1995 and has educated thousands of

Lawrence Thatcher, BS’47 in chemical engineering, founded

Since 1987, the Governor’s Medals for Science and Technology

N

Cynthia J. Burrows is a Distinguished Professor

Adam Beehler is the lecture demonstration

Lawrence Thatcher was trained in chemistry

of Chemistry and the Thatcher Presidential

specialist for the University of Utah Department

and chemical engineering at the University of

Endowed Chair in Biological Chemistry at the

of Physics and Astronomy. He has 23 years of

Utah. He graduated in 1947 with a degree in

University of Utah.

experience in science education.

chemical engineering.

“I’m thrilled to join my Chemistry

“I am deeply honored and pleased to see

Lawrence co-founded Thatcher Chemical

colleagues, about a dozen of them, who have

community engagement, public outreach, and

in 1967 and developed it into a worldwide

previously won this honor. It’s important that the

education be recognized and supported by a

supplier and manufacturer of chemical

State of Utah recognizes the value of scientific

Governor’s Medal,” says Beehler. “I hope that

products. His early achievement was in engi-

research and innovation,” says Burrows.

others will use this endorsement as an

neering aluminum sulfate in a more economical

opportunity to get involved more and support

way for use in water purification, fabric dyeing,

and biology of free radical stress on DNA and

such endeavors so that it may continue.”

paper manufacturing and cosmetics.

the effect of changes in DNA and RNA structure

on cellular function. She has also tackled new

engagement and public outreach. Since joining

to be a diversified chemical manufacturer

methods for DNA sequencing to identify sites

the U in 2006, he has taught nearly 70,000 Utah

and distributor in Utah. The company is based

where chemical modifications have occurred.

students and members of the general public

in Salt Lake City and has operations in seven

Molecular changes in genetic material,

through his volunteer lecture-demonstrations

other states.

particularly caused by oxidative stress, underlie

and activities at elementary and middle schools.

the development of certain cancers and also

In addition, he teaches physics classes at

long-standing supporter of chemical educa-

impact infectious diseases such as Zika virus.

the U, and prepares all of the experiments and

tion in Utah. In 2009, they helped establish the

demonstrations in the Department of Physics

Thatcher Building for Biological and Biophysical

Burrows serves the science community as editor-

and Astronomy.

Chemistry at the University of Utah. This modern

in-chief of Accounts of Chemical Research, and

Beehler also has taught physics at Kansas

facility provides classrooms, laboratories, and

has served the State of Utah as a former member

State University, Colorado State University, Aims

research space for hundreds of chemistry

of the USTAR Governing Authority.

Community College, and the Discovery Science

students and faculty each year.

Museum.

Her research efforts focus on the chemistry

In addition to research and teaching,

Burrows was elected to the American

Beehler is passionate about community

Academy of Arts and Sciences in 2009 and the

National Academy of Sciences in 2014.

have been published in peer-reviewed journals

Today, the Thatcher Company continues

The Thatcher family, led by Lawrence, is a

Beehler’s experiments and demonstrations

such as The Physics Teacher as national best practices, and have been adopted by many peer institutions due to their effectiveness for increasing student learning.

23

N o t e b o o k • Volum e X X V • 2017

N e w S c ie n c e C l a s s To P r e pa r e S t u d e n t s f or C a r e e r s SCI 6990 to Launch in Fall Semester This year Diane Pataki, Associate Dean for Student Affairs, partnered with the University’s Career Services office to design a class that specifically addresses the practical skills and experiences students need to successfully transition from the class room to the board room.

Diane Pataki

recently released a report, Professional

first year, while Ph.D. students should take

intensive

seven-

Development: Shaping Effective Programs

the course by the end of the second year.

week course to

for STEM Graduate Students, that says “pro-

provide graduate

fessional development programs should be

students academic credit and note their

students with skills

more closely integrated into the academic

professional development experience on

and resources, such

experience.” The National Research Council,

as a resume, that

the National Academy of Sciences, the

they can utilize

National Institutes of Health, the American

immediately,” says Pataki.

Chemical Society, and many other organiza-

tions have made similar recommendations.

Pataki and Francine Mahak, the Univer-

As a formal course, SCI 6990 will give

sity’s Career Coach for Graduate Students in

the Colleges of Engineering & Science, will

oped a one-credit hour course open to all

teach the new class, SCI 6990, beginning in

graduate students in the Departments of

fall semester. The course will survey a wide

Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics

range of career options from the private

& Astronomy. The seminar will focus on

and non-profit sectors to government labs,

networking skills, identifying job search

public agencies, and academic institutions.

tools for a range of careers, assisting stu-

“As the Career Services facilitator,

dents with preparing resumes and CVs, and

I’ve enjoyed learning about academic

practicing interviewing, negotiating, and

careers right along with the students,” says

other oral communication skills. Students

Mahak. “As facilitators, Dr. Pataki and I talk

and their mentors will be introduced to

about which expectations are common to

the Individual Development Plan (IDP) tool

their transcripts. It’s also one of the first

academic and non-academic careers, and

designed specifically for science graduate

courses to use the new College of Science

which are different. This has been an inter-

students by the American Association for

course prefix “SCI” which will be used for

esting discovery process for us as well as

the Advancement of Science.

cross-disciplinary courses that cut across

the students!”

the College’s four departments.

24

“This will be an

Across

the

country,

In response, Pataki and Mahak devel-

IDPs can be used to help graduate

universities,

students assess their current skills and com-

employers, and professional organizations

pare them to the requirements of different

will take advantage of SCI 6990,” Pataki says.

are recognizing the growing need to pre-

scientific careers. Developing career skills

“We’ll keep improving the course as we get

pare graduate students for a wide range of

takes time, so Pataki and Mahak recommend

feedback from students and employers, and

careers. The Council of Graduate Schools

that Master’s students take SCI 6990 in their

hope it continues to grow.”

“We hope that all of our graduate students

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