Fall 2026 | Chemistry Seminar Series
"The Quest for Materials Discovery: Methods, Motivations, and Milestones"
Dr. Alexandra Tamerius
Assistant Professor, Department of Chemistry, Marian University
Thursday, October 15th, 3:30pm in FB-253
Abstract: Since antiquity, humans have been fascinated with metallic materials. From campfires and early alchemists to the forefront of chemistry and material science, many scholars, both ancient and modern, have made it their personal quest to understand metals. Their discoveries have had a profound impact on society through technological advances in materials. From a chemical perspective, metallic materials present a particularly enticing challenge. Their diffuse metallic bonding and staggering structural complexity both give rise to their exciting properties and obscure their design. Throughout her career, Dr. Tamerius has been fascinated by the long history and exciting future of materials discovery. Here, she will share a few stories along her personal quest to understand the synthesis, structure, function, and stability of materials. Along the way, she will share key lessons learned to steer her career by leveraging her growing expertise, interests, and collaborations.