| Posted: October 13, 2009 |
UTEP Department of Chemistry Chair honored with Distinguished Scientist Award |
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(Nanowerk News) The University of Texas at El Paso is pleased to announce that Jorge Gardea-Torresdey, Ph. D, chair for the Department of Chemistry, has been honored with the 2009 Distinguished Scientist Award by SACNAS, the Society for the Advancement of Chicanos and Native Americans in Science.
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SACNAS recognized Gardea-Torresdey for his research in the field of phytoremediation, which is the use of plants to clear polluted soil and water of toxic elements such as lead and arsenic. Gardea-Torresdey also was recognized for his role as a mentor and his efforts to promote diversity in the sciences. While at UTEP, he has been a faculty advisor to 18 students who have earned their Ph.D.s, 15 of whom are Hispanic.
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“This is a very special honor for me,” said Gardea-Torresdey, who will receive the award at the SACNAS national conference on October 15 in Dallas. “It is wonderful to be recognized by one’s peers.”
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Gardea-Torresdey’s scientific contributions have earned him worldwide recognition as an expert in environmental chemistry. He serves as an editor of the Journal of Hazardous Materials, a leading publication in the field of civil and environmental engineering.
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Gardea-Torresdey also is directing research on the environmental impact of nanomaterials – particles that are increasingly being used in consumer products such as cosmetics, clothing and electronics. He is the principal investigator for UTEP’s work with the national Centers for the Environmental Implications of Nanotechnology, a $38 million research initiative sponsored by the National Science Foundation and the Environmental Protection Agency.
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