UH HONORS RANDOLPH THUMMEL FOR RESEARCH, SCHOLARSHIP

Randolph Thummel, professor of chemistry, received the Excellence in Research and Scholarship Award for the professor rank. A member of the faculty since 1973, Thummel has a record of outstanding research accomplishments and has been successful in acquiring external funding.

“Professor Thummel has distinguished himself nationally and internationally as an intellectually gifted scientist and an inspiring teacher,” wrote a supporter on his nomination form.

Thummel’s recent work on the chemical utilization of solar energy is directed toward the development of more efficient solar cells and as a catalyst that will use sunlight to decompose water into hydrogen and oxygen. Such a discovery would be a major breakthrough in the establishment of a hydrogen economy.

Awards are given each year to three faculty members who have achieved a substantial record of outstanding research, scholarship or creative activities in their field. Each award carries a $3,000 stipend and a plaque.

Staff writer Lisa Merkl