PITT CHEMISTRY PROFESSOR TO BE HONORED BY LOCAL CHEMISTRY SOCIETY

PITTSBURGH, Nov. 22 -- The Pittsburgh Section of the American Chemical Society (ACS) will honor University of Pittsburgh Chemistry Professor Kenneth D. Jordan as the 2000 Pittsburgh Award recipient at a dinner on Saturday, Dec. 2, in the William Pitt Union.

The director of Pitt's Center for Molecular and Materials Simulations, Jordan is a fellow of the American Physical Society and a recipient of the University of Pittsburgh's Distinguished Research Award. Jordan has twice served as chair of the Theory Subdivision of the Physical Chemistry Division of the ACS.

Jordan uses computational methods to aid in understanding the behavior of isolated molecules as well as aggregates of molecules, and of molecules on solid surfaces. His theoretical studies of semiconductor surfaces have provided insight into the role of bond-breaking/reforming processes in chemical reactions on such surfaces.

His work on intramolecular interactions shows how chemical linkers, or bridges, between two chemically active groups facilitate electron transfer between the active groups. This work helps experimental groups to produce chemical bridges that are more effective in promoting electron transfer.

Jordan also has used computational methods to characterize small clusters of water molecules. His research group has shown that clusters containing as few as eight water molecules can undergo a solid-to-liquid melting transition.

The Pittsburgh Award was established in 1932 to recognize leadership in chemical affairs in the community. The annual award symbolizes the honor and appreciation accorded to those who show distinguished service to chemistry.

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