Dr. Hassan S. Bazzi, associate dean for research at Texas A&M University at Qatar and professor of materials science and engineering at Texas A&M University, has been elected a fellow of the American Chemical Society (ACS) in recognition of his outstanding achievements in chemistry and contributions to science, the profession and the society. This is the second fellowship for Bazzi, who was named fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry in December 2018.
Bazzi is one of 70 international chemists selected this year to the prestigious fellows program, and he is the only one from outside the United States. Bazzi will be honored along with his class of 2019 inductees during an Aug. 26 ceremony and reception in conjunction with the society’s 258th National Meeting and Exposition in San Diego.
“This is a tremendous honor, and I am humbled and grateful to be included in this exemplary group of chemists. Membership in and service to professional societies can play a significant role in shaping the future of our field, and I am proud of the work done by the American Chemical Society to advance chemistry for the benefit of our world and all its people,” Bazzi said.
"Dr. Bazzi sets a unique example for students, young scientists and junior faculty at our Qatar campus with his groundbreaking research in materials science and his infectious enthusiasm. We are honored for him to be affiliated with our department,” said Dr. Ibrahim Karaman, Chevron Professor I and head of the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at Texas A&M.
In the award citation published in the July 15 issue of the ACS Chemical & Engineering News, he was recognized for “his leadership in science and engineering programs in Qatar, for organizing and chairing multiple international chemistry conferences in Qatar since 2004, and for his teaching and research successes.” In addition, he also was recognized for his community services through “his roles in establishing the ACS Qatar chapter, establishing STEM outreach programs for Qatar high schools, and bringing internationally renowned chemists to Qatar to promote chemical sciences.”
“Achieving fellow status in a prestigious professional organization such as the American Chemical Society is the highest status a member can receive,” said Dr. César O. Malavé, dean of Texas A&M at Qatar. “Bazzi’s election as fellow is proof of the caliber of teaching, research, service and leadership that he brings to our university, and is testament to the quality of education offered at Texas A&M at Qatar.”
Bazzi’s research interests focus on metathesis chemistry as a powerful tool in small molecule and polymer synthesis, in addition to polymer-supported catalysis, DNA-mimetic polymers and fluorous analogs of ruthenium-based catalysts. He has authored and co-authored 88 peer-reviewed scientific publications, three U.S. patents, four U.S. and International patent applications, and 145 conference presentations.
In addition to his role as associate dean for research, Bazzi is a professor of chemistry and executive director of development, engagement and outreach at Texas A&M at Qatar.