Rice University honored chemist James Tour with a reception March 21 at the Ralph S. O’Connor Building for Engineering and Science for being named to the National Academy of Engineering (NAE), one of the highest professional distinctions accorded in recognition of distinguished contributions to the field.
Tour, the T.T. and W.F. Chao Professor and professor of chemistry and of materials science and nanoengineering, was recognized by the NAE for his research on the synthesis, fabrication, properties, applications and commercialization of novel forms of carbon and their composites and derivatives.
“His contributions to chemistry are truly broad and profound,” said Thomas Killian, dean of the Wiess School of Natural Sciences, during the reception. “And he’s a fantastic role model for how fundamental research can be applied to address great societal challenges related to energy, the environment and human health. His success in translating research into high impact companies is truly remarkable.”
