The University of Akron School of Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering

We’re excited to share that Moni Mahesh Ghosh, a Ph.D. candidate in the School of Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering at The University of Akron, has been selected as a recipient of a 2025 Society of Plastics Engineers (SPE) TPO Global Automotive Conference Scholarship! 🎉

This prestigious honor recognizes Ghosh's outstanding research contributions in polymer engineering. As part of the award, he will present his work, conducted under the guidance of Dr. Sadhan Jana, at the 2026 SPE TPO Global Automotive Conference in Troy, Michigan, one of the automotive industry’s top technical events.

Join us in celebrating Ghosh's achievement and the incredible research happening here at UA! 👏

Congratulations to Dr. Li Jia, professor of polymer science at The University of Akron, on being named a 2025 Hero of Chemistry by the American Chemical Society! 👏

Jia was part of the DuPont team that was recognized for its work on embedded barrier layer technology. This innovation enhances the efficiency of immersion photolithography for manufacturing advanced computing chips used in applications like artificial intelligence and advanced computing, helping to reduce chemical usage, energy consumption and production steps in semiconductor manufacturing. ⚡💻

“Dr. Jia’s recognition as a Hero of Chemistry is a testament to his outstanding contributions to polymer science and the impact his work has on cutting-edge technology,” said Dr. Mark Soucek, interim director of the School of Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering. “His research not only advances the field of polymer chemistry but also exemplifies the transformative role that research at The University of Akron plays in addressing real-world challenges.” 🔬

Read more: https://bit.ly/4moSuMn

Congratulations to Dr. Mesfin Tsige, professor in the School of Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering at The University of Akron, on receiving a $360,000 award from the National Science Foundation — his third consecutive NSF grant. 👏

Tsige and his team use advanced computer models to study how large, charged molecules called macroions organize themselves in water. Their discoveries deepen our understanding of molecular self-assembly, a process at the heart of chemistry, biology and materials science. 🔬

The impact extends beyond science: this research could inform cleaner water technologies, protein and DNA research, and the design of new self-assembling materials. The project also creates hands-on opportunities for graduate, undergraduate and high school students to gain valuable experience with advanced simulations. ⚡

Learn more about his work: https://bit.ly/4lR5ha7

New Glue Fuses Art & Science @ Akron U Art conservators at museums worldwide had a very sticky problem, and the University of Akron had the solution. It's called "Beva 371 Akron", and is a new type of adhesive developed by polymer scientists to help preserve old, fragile paintings. Listen now to my conversation with Professor...