Rice University’s distinguished chemists Angel Martí, David Sarlah, and Haotian Wang recently received prestigious national honors from the American Chemical Society (ACS), reflecting their groundbreaking research and substantial contributions to the field of chemistry. These awards not only acknowledge their innovative work in diverse chemical disciplines but also emphasize their commitment to mentoring future scientists, especially those from underrepresented and disadvantaged backgrounds. The recognition underscores the importance of fostering diversity and inclusion within the scientific community, advancing not only research but also social equity in STEM fields.
Angel Martí, a prominent professor at Rice, who holds positions in chemistry, bioengineering, and materials science and nanoengineering, was honored with the ACS Award for Encouraging Underrepresented and Economically Disadvantaged Students into Careers in the Chemical Sciences. Martí’s research program is deeply interdisciplinary, combining synthetic organic chemistry, materials science, and bioengineering to develop novel functional materials with applications ranging from molecular electronics to sustainable chemical processes. His dedication to cultivating inclusive educational environments has been as impactful as his scientific pursuits, evidenced by his election as an ACS Fellow in 2024.
Martí’s career is marked by pioneering efforts to dismantle barriers that have historically limited underrepresented groups from entering and succeeding in chemical sciences. His lab has developed innovative platforms for molecular design that leverage cutting-edge synthetic methods to create organic materials with tunable electronic properties. These advances have implications for next-generation photovoltaics and organic light-emitting devices, highlighting the intersection of synthetic chemistry and materials science. Martí’s award reflects recognition not only of his technical prowess but also of his active role as a mentor and advocate, inspiring a new generation of chemists to embrace challenges and drive forward sustainable solutions.
David Sarlah, also a chemistry professor at Rice, received the Elias J. Corey Award for Outstanding Original Contribution in Organic Synthesis by a Young Investigator. Sarlah’s research is centered on the development of novel dearomatization strategies — a transformative approach in organic synthesis that converts planar aromatic compounds into complex three-dimensional architectures with high stereo-specificity. This method opens pathways to synthesize highly complex natural products that were previously challenging to access, thus expanding the toolbox of synthetic organic chemistry.
Sarlah’s creative strategies involve harnessing unusual reactivity patterns and applying sophisticated catalytic systems to achieve selective stereo-controlled transformations. His approach effectively addresses significant hurdles in natural product synthesis, enabling the generation of molecular frameworks with precise three-dimensional arrangement vital for biological activity. The award underlines the impact of fundamental organic synthesis innovations in solving complex chemical problems and underscores Sarlah’s role in advancing synthetic methodologies that bridge fundamental science and practical applications in pharmaceuticals and materials.
Haotian Wang, an associate professor of chemical and biomolecular engineering, was named the recipient of the 2026 Marks-Ipatieff Award in Catalysis. This distinguished honor is reserved for early-career scientists who have made outstanding contributions to catalysis—a field central to chemical manufacturing and sustainable technology. Wang’s research has pioneered advances in carbon dioxide electrochemistry, focusing on the design and engineering of highly efficient electrolyzers for converting CO2 into valuable fuels and chemicals, thereby addressing urgent challenges in climate change mitigation and renewable energy.
Wang’s innovative electrolyzer designs incorporate advanced catalyst materials with tailored active sites and optimized electronic structures to enhance selectivity and efficiency in electrochemical CO2 reduction. His work leverages fundamental understanding of reaction mechanisms at the electrode-electrolyte interface, enabling the rational design of catalytic systems that operate under mild conditions with high turnover frequencies. The Marks-Ipatieff Award highlights Wang’s role in pushing the frontiers of sustainable energy technologies and demonstrates how catalysis research can drive transformative solutions to global energy and environmental issues.
The collective achievements of Martí, Sarlah, and Wang exemplify the multifaceted advances in chemistry that span molecular design, synthetic strategy, and energy conversion. Their work embodies the critical role that cutting-edge chemical research plays in addressing pressing societal needs—from developing novel materials and enabling complex molecule synthesis to creating technologies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The ACS awards not only honor scientific excellence but also highlight the importance of mentorship, diversity, and inclusion in driving innovation and fostering the next generation of chemical scientists.
Each of these scientists has expressed profound gratitude for the recognition, reflecting a shared commitment to excellence and community. Martí emphasizes the fulfillment derived from enabling students to envision themselves as future leaders in science, reinforcing the essential linkage between research and education. Sarlah notes the significance of fundamental organic synthesis in overcoming scientific challenges, acknowledging his talented collaborators who propel innovative discoveries. Wang underscores the urgency of climate and energy challenges and the motivating force of catalysis research in developing sustainable solutions for a greener future.
Rice University’s vibrant research environment and collaborative spirit have undoubtedly contributed to the successes of these distinguished faculty members. The synergy between interdisciplinary research and educational dedication exemplifies how academic institutions can create impactful science while fostering inclusive communities. By integrating chemistry with engineering, materials science, and biochemistry, these scientists are pioneering approaches that transcend traditional disciplinary boundaries, promoting a holistic vision of scientific progress.
In summary, the American Chemical Society’s recognition of Angel Martí, David Sarlah, and Haotian Wang shines a spotlight on the extraordinary depth and breadth of modern chemical research at Rice University. Their contributions—spanning molecular innovation, synthetic methodology, and sustainable catalysis—chart new paths forward in chemistry and its applications to real-world challenges. Simultaneously, their unwavering commitment to mentoring and diversity epitomizes the evolving role of scientists as both innovators and community builders in the 21st century.
Subject of Research: Interdisciplinary Chemistry, Organic Synthesis, Carbon Dioxide Electrochemistry, Catalysis, Materials Science, Bioengineering
Article Title: Rice University Chemists Honored with ACS National Awards for Groundbreaking Contributions in Chemistry and Mentorship
News Publication Date: August 2025
Web References:
– https://cen.acs.org/people/awards/ACS-announces-2026-national-award/103/web/2025/08
– https://profiles.rice.edu/faculty/angel-marti
– https://profiles.rice.edu/faculty/david-sarlah
– https://profiles.rice.edu/faculty/haotian-wang
Image Credits: Haotian Wang: Photo by Jeff Fitlow/Rice University; David Sarlah: Photo by L. Brian Stauffer; Angel Martí: Photo by Jeff Fitlow/Rice University
Keywords
American Chemical Society, ACS Awards, Organic Synthesis, Catalysis, Electrochemistry, Carbon Dioxide Reduction, Sustainable Energy, Materials Science, Bioengineering, Diversity in STEM, Chemical Mentorship, Rice University Chemistry
