Advancing Chemistry. Improving Life

Home , Jacqueline Barton, Japan Prize, Norman Hackerman, Peter Dervan

Advancing Chemistry. Improving Life.

ANNUAL REPORT

2017

Welch 2017 Cover.indd 1 6/18/18 2:33 PM ROBERT A. WELCH

The Welch Foundation is a legacy to the world from Robert Alonzo Welch, a self-made man with a strong sense of responsibility to humankind, an enthusiastic respect for chemistry and a deep love for the state of Texas.

Born in South Carolina to a prominent family that fell on hard economic times, Mr. Welch came to Houston as a youth and later made his fortune in oil and minerals. Over the course of his career and life, he became convinced of the importance of chemistry for the betterment of the world.

Scientists, geologists and petroleum engineers were among his close friends and associates as were the civic and business leaders of the day. From these associations and his own study, Mr. Welch determined that the pursuit of chemistry and chemical research held great potential for vast good and would continue to have a valuable impact on business, industry, global leadership and the 2017 ANNUAL REPORT human condition. SUPPLEMENT

The Supplement to the 2017 Welch Mr. Welch gave serious thought to the disposition of his Foundation Annual Report is available estate. His decisions reﬂected his belief in science and the online at www.welch1.org and includes: role it would play in the future. In his will, Mr. Welch stated: 61st Conference on Chemical “I have long been impressed with the great possibilities Research Program Welch Conference on Chemical for the betterment of mankind that lay in the ﬁeld of Research 1957-2017 research in the domain of chemistry.” With his death in Welch Award Recipients 1972-2017 1952, Mr. Welch left a generous portion of his estate Hackerman Award Recipients to his employees and their families. The balance began 2002-2017 what is now The Welch Foundation. Principal Investigators Listed Alphabetically Abstracts of Current Investigations Publications by Principal Investigators Reported During 2016-2017

Welch 2017 Cover.indd 2-3 Welch AR 2017–v7A.indd 1 6/18/186/19/18 2:338:32 PMAM ROBERT A. WELCH

Mr. Welch gave serious thought to the disposition of his estate. His decisions reﬂected his belief in science and the role it would play in the future. In his will, Mr. Welch stated: “I have long been impressed with the great possibilities for the betterment of mankind that lay in the ﬁeld of research in the domain of chemistry.” With his death in 1952, Mr. Welch left a generous portion of his estate to his employees and their families. The balance began what is now The Welch Foundation.

Welch AR 2017–v7A.indd 1 6/19/18 8:32 AM 2017 ANNUAL HIGHLIGHTS Advancing Basic Research in Chemistry, Improving Lives

Fiscal year 2017 saw the Foundation’s endowment reach $687 million. From inception through the end of the year, the Foundation has provided some $866 million in actual-dollar support for basic research in chemistry. The Welch Foundation named two “rising stars” recipients of the 2017 Hackerman Award in Chemical Research: Neal M. Alto, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, for his contributions in microbiology, and Delia J. Milliron, The University of Texas President Norbert Dittrich, board chair Charles Tate, 3 2017 ANNUAL HIGHLIGHTS Table of Contents at Austin, for her work in materials science. and SAB and conference chair Peter Dervan at the 61st research conference. 4 THE WELCH FOUNDATION “It is a testament to the depth and vibrancy of Texas chemical research that biological properties useful for a wide range of 6 THE WELCH AWARD we chose to honor both of these remarkable sci- applications. 8 THE HACKERMAN AWARD entists this year,” said Welch President Norbert Also in October, the Foundation saluted the Dittrich. “While working in two disparate areas, recipient of the 2017 Robert A. Welch Award in 10 CONFERENCE ON CHEMICAL RESEARCH they are making important and critical contribu- Chemistry, John B. Goodenough, The Univer- 12 PROGRAMS tions to our scientific knowledge.” sity of Texas at Austin, for his work in materials The annual research conference in October, science. Best known for his development of the 14 FOUNDATION GRANTS “Advances in Synthetic and Biological Chem- lithium ion battery in 1980, Dr. Goodenough 18 PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATORS istry,” attracted approximately 600 attendees. recently made a second major breakthrough in Welch Scientific Advisory Board Chair Peter the technology of rechargeable batteries. 32 DEPARTMENTAL RESEARCH GRANTS B. Dervan organized the conference featur- Membership in the Foundation’s board of 33 ENDOWED CHAIRS ing 12 speakers discussing the creation of new directors transitioned during the year. Charles molecules with specific physical, chemical and M. Tate retired as board chair in December and 34 FINANCIALS Carin Marcy Barth assumed that role. Ernest H. Cockrell also retired after 15 years of service, and Robert C. Robbins resigned upon taking a new position outside the state. The Foundation is deeply grateful for their stellar service. 2017 saw auxiliary advisory board members Frederick W. Brazelton, Douglas L. Foshee and Gina A. Luna move onto the board. In addition, William F. McKeon was named to the auxiliary advisory board, effective Jan. 1, 2018. The Scientific Advisory Board welcomed noted researcher and scientific leader W. E. Moerner, Stanford University, to its ranks and said farewell to retiring member Marye Anne Fox. Dr. Fox joined the SAB in 1998 and was chair between President Norbert Dittrich with Carl and Gina Luna and Mitchell and Carin Marcy Barth at the Welch Award banquet. The two women are 2012 and 2014. Her insights and thoughtful Welch board members. leadership will be missed.

2 3

Welch AR 2017–v7A.indd 2-3 6/19/18 8:32 AM 2017 ANNUAL HIGHLIGHTS Advancing Basic Research in Chemistry, Improving Lives

2 3

Welch AR 2017–v7A.indd 2-3 6/19/18 8:32 AM THE WELCH FOUNDATION Fullfilling

Founder’s Vision Scientific Advisory Board Peter B. Dervan, Chair Richard R. Schrock The Scientific Advisory Board advises California Institute Massachusetts Institute of Technology of Technology the Board of Directors on scientific issues related to the Foundation’s mission. The board is composed of renowned leaders in chemistry and the Created from an endowment by Texas oilman and philanthropist Robert Alonzo Welch, related sciences who evaluate proposals Jennifer A. Doudna Peter G. Schultz for research grants, review and University of California, The Scripps Research Berkeley Institute The Welch Foundation has grown into one of the nation’s largest sources of private recommend finalists for the Welch and funding for basic research in chemistry. For more than 60 years, the Foundation has Hackerman Awards, and help oversee supported chemistry in Texas through research grants and a variety of other programs. the other Foundation programs to promote chemistry in Texas. Each year, Following the dictates of Mr. Welch’s will, the Foundation remains true to its one member presides over the annual Joseph L. Goldstein James L. Skinner The University of Texas University of Chicago Conference on Chemical Research. mission of supporting fundamental scientific exploration that ultimately helps Southwestern Medical improve our world. The Foundation’s endeavors are guided by a Board of Directors, Center Scientific Advisory Board and professional staff all committed to building a robust

scientific community in Texas that advances basic knowledge. Roger D. Kornberg Xiaowei Zhuang Stanford University Harvard University Medical School Board of Directors and Officers The Board of Directors serves as stewards of The Welch Foundation, overseeing its financial health, operational direction and support for chemistry. Board Members listed as of fiscal year end, Aug. 31, 2017. W. E. Moerner Stanford University

Charles W. Tate Wilhelmina E. (Beth) Robertson Chair and Director Director

Carin Marcy Barth Frederick W. Brazelton Foundation Staff Colette Bleasdale Kathy Kirk Vice Chair and Director Auxilliary Advisory Board Administrative Assistant/ Administrative Assistant Led by Norbert Dittrich, president Coordinator and chief operating officer, the staff oversees and implements the day-to-day operations of the Foundation.

Douglas L. Foshee Gina A. Luna Norbert Dittrich Reena Cegielski Ron Page Treasurer and Director Auxilliary Advisory Board President Senior Accountant Controller

Ernest H. Cockrell Norbert Dittrich Carla J. Atmar Carolyn Kahlich Sherry White Secretary and Director President Grant Programs Senior Accountant Staff Accountant Coordinator

4 5

Welch AR 2017–v7A.indd 4-5 6/19/18 8:32 AM THE WELCH FOUNDATION Fullfilling

Charles W. Tate Wilhelmina E. (Beth) Robertson Chair and Director Director

Douglas L. Foshee Gina A. Luna Norbert Dittrich Reena Cegielski Ron Page Treasurer and Director Auxilliary Advisory Board President Senior Accountant Controller

Ernest H. Cockrell Norbert Dittrich Carla J. Atmar Carolyn Kahlich Sherry White Secretary and Director President Grant Programs Senior Accountant Staff Accountant Coordinator

4 5

Welch AR 2017–v7A.indd 4-5 6/19/18 8:32 AM WELCH AWARD Materials Scientist Reinvents Batteries – Twice

Among his most notable achievements is the the digital computer. He went on to discover and development of the science behind the recharge- publish many critical principles of magnetism able lithium ion batteries so ubiquitous in por- still guiding scientists today. Ceramists, mate- table electronics today. And more recently his rial scientists, physicists and chemists have been team has built on that 1980 achievement with influenced by his fundamental research on elec- another breakthrough that will make recharge- tronic structure and bonding in metal oxides. able batteries safer, less expensive, longer lived, The energy crisis in the early 1970s faster charging and capable of storing much sparked Dr. Goodenough’s interest in renewable more energy. Dr. Goodenough’s hope is that fuels and the new technologies needed to make his latest discovery will help speed the world’s such alternatives scalable and affordable. In transition to renewable fuels. 1976, with defense department funding moving For his many contributions that have from basic to applied research, Dr. Goodenough advanced the field of materials science for the left MIT to become a professor and head of betterment of society, The Welch Foundation inorganic chemistry at the University of Oxford. named Dr. Goodenough the 2017 recipient of There he continued his work aimed at develop- the Welch Award in Chemistry. ing a better battery. Board member Ernie Cockrell and wife Janet enjoy the Welch Award banquet festivities with Jacqueline Barton and SAB chair Peter Dervan. “The global impact of Dr. Goodenough’s He succeeded in 1980 with his discovery research of electronic structure and bonding of a rechargeable lithium ion battery that today John Goodenough accepts the 2017 Welch Award metal oxides is so vast, it is truly impossible to powers everything from cell phones and laptops from chair Charles Tate. A big man with a big laugh, John B. Goodenough measure,” said Charles W. Tate, Welch board to electric vehicles. While Sony and others chair. “At 95 years old, his fervor for new discov- commercialized his breakthrough, Dr. Good- oxides and oxygen permeation membranes. In has made a huge impact on materials science. eries has not wavered.” enough continued this work, discovering and other research, his team is exploring potential A pioneer in modern solid-state Currently the Virginia H. Cockrell Centen- developing further alternative advanced battery applications in materials science and biology for nial Chair in Engineering at The University materials, most notably lithium iron phosphates the glasses that have proven integral to the new chemistry – a strong, vibrant, interdisciplinary of Texas at Austin, Dr. Goodenough’s broad useful in large automobile batteries as they offer breakthrough battery technology. area – he helped create the field of materials knowledge and fluency in physics, chemistry superior rate capability, cost, safety, stability Dr. Goodenough has authored nine books, and engineering have given him a unique ability and performance. close to 100 chapters and reviews, and more science and discovered fundamental principles to make major contributions in both theoretical In 1986, facing mandatory retirement age than 850 research papers. His 30-plus awards and experimental areas of condensed mat- in the U.K., Dr. Goodenough moved his labora- include the National Medal of Science, The En- that still guide scientists today. At 95, he ter physics and chemistry. In his 60-year-plus tory to UT Austin. There he continued his work rico Fermi Award, Inventor of the Year, Laure- continues to pursue his lifelong interest in career, he has made many and seminal contribu- and with his latest major discovery, he and col- ate of the Japan Prize, the Charles Stark Draper tions to solid state chemistry and electrochem- league Helena Braga have once again revolution- Prize and the IEEE Medal for Environment and transition metal oxides. istry, including several breakthroughs with ized batteries with breakthrough technology. Safety Technologies. While he quit classroom worldwide implications. Using glasses, they have demonstrated how to teaching at age 90, he continues to mentor many Growing up in Connecticut, Dr. Good- make batteries safer, cheaper, lighter, longer- graduates and postdoctoral candidates in his enough studied math at Yale before serving in lasting and with greater capacity, enabling the laboratory, helping shape and inspire future World War II as a meteorologist. He then took storage of large amounts of electricity from re- generations of scientists. advantage of a veteran’s program to study phys- newable sources. In addition, he also is working Reflecting on what makes a good scien- ics at the University of Chicago, where he met on an approach to replace lithium with widely tist, Dr. Goodenough has simple advice: “First, his wife Irene Wiseman. After graduation and available, inexpensive and more environmen- everyone is born with different talents and you wedding, he took a job at the Massachusetts tally friendly sodium. have to understand what your talents are and Institute of Technology. Dr. Goodenough also continues to make strive to develop them. Then you need to be There, he used his budding interest in seminal contributions to other aspects of stor- curious and open to learning to get anywhere. transition metal oxides to enable the memory ing electric energy, including fuel cells, and You need to be asking, seeking and continually element for the first random access memory of has active research projects in transition metal knocking on doors.”

6 7

Welch AR 2017–v7A.indd 6-7 6/19/18 8:33 AM WELCH AWARD Materials Scientist Reinvents Batteries – Twice

6 7

Welch AR 2017–v7A.indd 6-7 6/19/18 8:33 AM HACKERMAN AWARD ‘Rising Stars’ Showcase Depth, Breadth of Texas Research

Neal Alto’s research is focused he spent two years as a research In one current area of on developing a better understand- scientist at the University of Utah research, she is exploring how ing of the chemistry of cells and how before earning a doctorate in nanoparticles can organize them- cells communicate, with a particular cell and developmental biology selves in a fluid into gel networks. emphasis on host-pathogen interac- at Oregon Health and Science She hopes to understand what tions. Already this rising star’s work University. Following postdoctoral Neil Alto has shed new light aspects of the inter-nanoparticle has shown, in atomic level detail, how training at the University of on how bacteria evade the forces control the networks’ immune system. bacteria invade a host cell and hijack its California San Diego, he joined structure and how this influ- functions. This reprogramming allows the UT Southwestern faculty in 2007. He has ences the optical properties of the gels. This work bacteria to defeat the body’s immune been a Welch principal investigator since 2009. ultimately could have implications for batteries, system so that the organism can grow Dr. Alto’s work has been recognized with supercapacitors and fuel cells. and thrive. numerous awards including two from The “I like working on interdisciplinary problems At a fundamental level, Dr. Alto is Hartwell Foundation for biomedical research, with interdisciplinary teams. I find it inspiring to developing new knowledge of how cells the Merck Irving S. Sigal Memorial Award from solve problems using tools and techniques from function, elucidating interactions previ- the American Society of Microbiology and the across chemistry, physics and materials science,” ously not known or understood. This Faculty Scholar Award from Howard Hughes Dr. Milliron said. “My goal is to develop new work, in turn, is creating important Medical Institute – Simmons Foundation. fundamental knowledge that can also inform 2017 Hackerman Award recipients Neil Alto and Delia Milliron were insights that may translate into better treatments Dr. Alto was also named an investigator in the meaningful applications.” honored as “rising stars” in Texas chemical research. Board chair for infection, cancer and autoimmune diseases, pathogenesis of infectious disease by the Bur- Dr. Milliron earned her undergraduate degree Charles Tate presents the honor. among other maladies. The molecules bacteria roughs Wellcome Fund. He and his wife Laura, in chemistry from Princeton and a doctorate produce to attack the cell and the processes also a scientist at UT Southwestern, have two in physical chemistry from the University of they affect may lead to new drug targets, children, Haven and Owen. California, Berkeley. She worked as a research The Welch Foundation named two “rising helping address the growing problem of Delia Milliron works with nano- staff member for IBM before moving to the Law- antibiotic resistance. materials and has elucidated the fun- rence Berkeley National Laboratory in 2008. She stars” recipients of the 2017 Hackerman “Bacteria are really the best experimental- damental chemistry of a new family of joined the UT Austin faculty in 2013 as associate Award in Chemical Research: Neal M. Alto, ists having spent millions of years probing how nanocrystals, plasmonic oxide nanocrys- professor in the McKetta Department of Chemi- we work,” Dr. Alto said. “The molecules they tals. She has built on this basic research cal Engineering. She has been a Welch principal The University of Texas Southwestern Medical use to attack human cells provide tools we can to develop lower cost, more efficient investigator since 2014. Center, and Delia J. Milliron, The University of leverage to understand fundamental cell biologi- windows that can separately control light Dr. Milliron has been recognized with the cal processes – the chemical processes that drive and heat. Ultimately, new windows using Resonate Award from Caltech’s Resnick Insti- Texas at Austin. life. My goal is to deconstruct these complex this technology can let in heat from the tute, was selected as one of 16 professors for the systems to reveal hidden meaning and ultimate- sun in the winter, keep it out in the sum- 2016-17 Defense Science Study Group, received a ly discover how these molecules cause disease.” mer and dynamically control visible light Sloan Research Fellowship and chaired a Gordon The microbiologist uses concepts, tools levels as desired. Research Conference, among other honors and and techniques from chemistry, biochemistry, Known for her collaboration across achievements. She is on the editorial advisory molecular biology and structural biology in his disciplinary boundaries, Dr. Milliron board for two ACS journals and is an associate work, drawing from his background, learning Delia Milliron’s work in works primarily with plasmonic semiconductor editor for Nano Letters. new areas as needed and working with a wide nanomaterials already has nanocrystals and the electronic properties of The Hackerman Award is named in honor of practical applications. range of collaborators. Considered an excellent nanocrystal networks with a focus on energy- Norman Hackerman, a noted scientist and long- teacher and mentor, Dr. Alto’s goal is to provide related applications. She takes a fundamental time chair of the Foundation’s Scientific Advisory his students with the breadth of knowledge and chemical approach to designing materials that Board. It is presented annually when warranted multidisciplinary approaches that will allow allows her lab to engineer things on an atomic to scientists who are early in their careers and them to do their own creative science. and molecular scale with results that could conducting basic research in chemistry in Texas. With a degree in biochemistry and molecular have a macroscopic impact on properties and It includes $100,000, a crystal sculpture and a biology from Western Washington University, technologies. certificate.

8 9

Welch AR 2017–v7A.indd 8-9 6/19/18 8:33 AM HACKERMAN AWARD ‘Rising Stars’ Showcase Depth, Breadth of Texas Research

8 9

Welch AR 2017–v7A.indd 8-9 6/19/18 8:33 AM 61ST ANNUAL Making Molecules that Jacqueline K. Barton, Caltech, discussing CONFERENCE ON CHEMICAL RESEARCH redox chemistry at a distance mediated by DNA Improve Life through long-range signaling and coordination of DNA repair. K. C. Nicolaou of Rice University then shared his work synthesizing increasingly complex architectures for medicine, and Carolyn R. Bertozzi, Stanford University, reviewed new approaches to glycosylation- targeted cancer therapy. The 61st Welch Foundation Conference on SAB member Peter Schultz discusses his chemi- Day two presenters shifted the focus to Chemical Research, “Advances in Synthetic and cal/biological approach to exploring the small “Making Molecules and Materials.” Harvard’s molecules that control stem cells. Biological Chemistry,” surveyed the latest devel- Xiaowei Zhuang, a Welch SAB member, facili- opments in this broad field. Leading scientists tated the morning session. Frances H. Arnold, recipient John B. Goodenough on his research, from across the globe shared their progress in Caltech, led off with a presenta- “Rechargeable Batteries: Evolution and Promise.” discovering or creating compounds with useful tion spotlighting the evolution of The conference’s final session continued new properties for potential applications in enzymes that catalyze reactions not exploring synthetic chemistry in materials sci- biology, medicine and materials. Attended by known in living systems. Charles M. ence, led by Stephan Link, Rice University and approximately 600 scientists, “Advances in Lieber, Harvard, discussed inventing 2015 Hackerman Award recipient. Catherine Synthetic and Biological Chemistry,” was held nanoscale materials at the interface J. Murphy, University of Illinois at Urbana- Oct. 23-24 in Houston. Peter B. Dervan, Bren between the physical and life sci- Champaign, reviewed her lab’s work innovating Professor of Chemistry at the California ences with the potential to address selective chemistry on colloidal nanoscale objects, Institute of Technology and chair of the Caption neurological problems, and Joseph and Thomas E. Mallouk, Pennsylvania State Foundation’s Scientific Advisory Board, Discussion leader Stephan Link M. DeSimone, University of North University, discussed assembling nanosheets for served as chair for the conference. visits with newest SAB member W. E. Moerner. Carolina at Chapel Hill, shared his catalytically active late-transition metal nanopar- “Chemists are improving on Mother Na- work reimagining 3D manufacturing based on ticles. Moungi Bawendi, Massachusetts Insti- Jacqueline Barton, a conference presenter, with SAB and conference chair ture’s original designs by inventing new meth- continuous liquid interface production technology. tute of Technology, wrapped up the conference Peter Dervan and board member Beth Robertson. ods to discover next generation therapeutics The Tuesday morning session concluded presenting his research applying quantum dots to with unprecedented pathway-specific activity,” with a presentation by the 2017 Welch Award bioimaging and energy harvesting. Synthetic chemists manipulate chemical reactions Dr. Dervan said. “Fundamental advances in science and technology at the nanoscale are being to create new molecules. The work can lead to a developed with opportunities in personalized better understanding of molecular functions and medicine as well as energy-related applications.” The first day of the conference, “From Mole- of complex chemical and biological systems. It also cules to Medicine,” focused on chemical biology. allows scientists to design molecules with specific The morning session was led by Tadhg P. Begley of Texas A&M University. Peter G. Schultz, physical, chemical and biological properties that The Scripps Research Institute and Welch SAB can prove beneficial for applications ranging from member, opened the day with a review of his medicine to energy production. team’s synergistic chemical/biological approach to small molecules that control stem cell self-renewal and differentiation. Next up was Samuel H. Gellman, University of Wisconsin- Madison, who discussed his use of alpha/beta peptide unnatural oligomers to understand folded biopolymers and improve their diverse biological functions. Wrapping up the morning, David R. Liu, Harvard University, highlighted a new approach to base editing technology to correct point mutations in the human genome, which are associated with many diseases. The 61st research conference chair Peter Dervan with the discussion leaders and presenters, including 2017 Welch Award recipient Led by Brent Iverson, The University of John Goodenough. Texas at Austin, the afternoon session featured

10 11

Welch AR 2017–v7A.indd 10-11 6/19/18 8:33 AM 61ST ANNUAL Making Molecules that Jacqueline K. Barton, Caltech, discussing CONFERENCE ON CHEMICAL RESEARCH redox chemistry at a distance mediated by DNA Improve Life through long-range signaling and coordination of DNA repair. K. C. Nicolaou of Rice University then shared his work synthesizing increasingly complex architectures for medicine, and Carolyn R. Bertozzi, Stanford University, reviewed new approaches to glycosylation- targeted cancer therapy. The 61st Welch Foundation Conference on SAB member Peter Schultz discusses his chemi- Day two presenters shifted the focus to Chemical Research, “Advances in Synthetic and cal/biological approach to exploring the small “Making Molecules and Materials.” Harvard’s molecules that control stem cells. Biological Chemistry,” surveyed the latest devel- Xiaowei Zhuang, a Welch SAB member, facili- opments in this broad field. Leading scientists tated the morning session. Frances H. Arnold, recipient John B. Goodenough on his research, from across the globe shared their progress in Caltech, led off with a presenta- “Rechargeable Batteries: Evolution and Promise.” discovering or creating compounds with useful tion spotlighting the evolution of The conference’s final session continued new properties for potential applications in enzymes that catalyze reactions not exploring synthetic chemistry in materials sci- biology, medicine and materials. Attended by known in living systems. Charles M. ence, led by Stephan Link, Rice University and approximately 600 scientists, “Advances in Lieber, Harvard, discussed inventing 2015 Hackerman Award recipient. Catherine Synthetic and Biological Chemistry,” was held nanoscale materials at the interface J. Murphy, University of Illinois at Urbana- Oct. 23-24 in Houston. Peter B. Dervan, Bren between the physical and life sci- Champaign, reviewed her lab’s work innovating Professor of Chemistry at the California ences with the potential to address selective chemistry on colloidal nanoscale objects, Institute of Technology and chair of the Caption neurological problems, and Joseph and Thomas E. Mallouk, Pennsylvania State Foundation’s Scientific Advisory Board, Discussion leader Stephan Link M. DeSimone, University of North University, discussed assembling nanosheets for served as chair for the conference. visits with newest SAB member W. E. Moerner. Carolina at Chapel Hill, shared his catalytically active late-transition metal nanopar- “Chemists are improving on Mother Na- work reimagining 3D manufacturing based on ticles. Moungi Bawendi, Massachusetts Insti- Jacqueline Barton, a conference presenter, with SAB and conference chair ture’s original designs by inventing new meth- continuous liquid interface production technology. tute of Technology, wrapped up the conference Peter Dervan and board member Beth Robertson. ods to discover next generation therapeutics The Tuesday morning session concluded presenting his research applying quantum dots to with unprecedented pathway-specific activity,” with a presentation by the 2017 Welch Award bioimaging and energy harvesting. Synthetic chemists manipulate chemical reactions Dr. Dervan said. “Fundamental advances in science and technology at the nanoscale are being to create new molecules. The work can lead to a developed with opportunities in personalized better understanding of molecular functions and medicine as well as energy-related applications.” The first day of the conference, “From Mole- of complex chemical and biological systems. It also cules to Medicine,” focused on chemical biology. allows scientists to design molecules with specific The morning session was led by Tadhg P. Begley of Texas A&M University. Peter G. Schultz, physical, chemical and biological properties that The Scripps Research Institute and Welch SAB can prove beneficial for applications ranging from member, opened the day with a review of his medicine to energy production. team’s synergistic chemical/biological approach to small molecules that control stem cell self-renewal and differentiation. Next up was Samuel H. Gellman, University of Wisconsin- Madison, who discussed his use of alpha/beta peptide unnatural oligomers to understand folded biopolymers and improve their diverse biological functions. Wrapping up the morning, David R. Liu, Harvard University, highlighted a new approach to base editing technology to correct point mutations in the human genome, which are associated with many diseases. The 61st research conference chair Peter Dervan with the discussion leaders and presenters, including 2017 Welch Award recipient Led by Brent Iverson, The University of John Goodenough. Texas at Austin, the afternoon session featured

10 11

Welch AR 2017–v7A.indd 10-11 6/19/18 8:33 AM PROGRAMS Spurring Research, Research in chemistry can inspire in “This comprehensive program gives students Educational Initiatives students a sense of discovery and passion for a rich, meaningful research experience while scientific inquiry – enthusiasm and excitement also teaching them chemical safety and hygiene, that is difficult to create through book learning respect for laboratory and environmental alone. Many of the students these programs reach resources, data collection and management, and have never had an opportunity to experience effective communications skills,” said Lauren research for themselves. In many cases, these J. Webb, associate chemistry professor at The young men and women go on to seek advanced University of Texas at Austin, now in her third Research Grants degrees and careers in science and medicine. year overseeing the program. “The scholars Departmental grants allow the schools consistently tell us that the experience of living The Welch Foundation awarded $24.9 to offer research opportunities to students, on a college campus is just as important to their million in grants to 106 researchers at 14 Texas support faculty work and enhance chemistry personal growth as the research itself.“ institutions in 2017. Support included funding programs. The departments typically use The program’s goal is to encourage 29 new proposals and renewing 77 projects. Welch funding to provide scholarships or participants’ pursuit of higher education and Overall, 346 principal investigators currently stipends for undergraduates and graduates, interest in the sciences. Dr. Webb notes that the receive Welch grants. The Foundation’s support purchase laboratory supplies and equipment, site directors are focusing on building a strong for chemical research since its inception in 1954 and underwrite student travel to participate in community of “Welchies” at each campus to now totals approximately $866 million through industry conferences. provide a fuller educational experience. Aug. 31, 2017. “As a Welch Summer Scholar of 2017, I feel Each research grant provides a minimum Welch Chairs that I achieved an incredible balance of summer of $65,000 a year and may be renewed based on recreation and laboratory work that contributed the proposal submitted by the principal investiga- The Welch Foundation endows 47 chairs at significantly to my development as a student and tor. The grant supports research in chemistry by a 21 Texas universities. This support is designed as an individual,” said one UT Austin participant. full-time faculty member with tenure or on tenure to recruit and retain talented chemical research- “I never imagined I would be able to track at institutions of higher education in Texas. ers and teachers to Texas universities as well as work closely with grad students, post docs or A list of principal investigators receiving strengthen the quality of higher education pro- professors before entering college, but the Welch Welch Summer Scholars are introduced to college life while gaining Welch Foundation grants during its 2017 fiscal grams across the state. The Foundation provides program let me do just that,” said a University of first-hand experience in chemical research. year, Sept. 1, 2016, to Aug. 31, 2017, begins on ongoing research funding for chair holders, help- Houston scholar. “I got first-hand experience of page 18. The listing includes researchers’ insti- ing support graduate and postdoctoral students how unpredictable yet rewarding studying and The Welch Foundation has supported basic research tutions and the titles of their research projects. working with the professors. working in the science field is.” in chemistry across Texas for more than 60 years Some grants are highlighted starting on page Three new chair holders were named in The year also saw a continued focus on 14. More information is available in the research 2017: Thomas Westbrook, Welch Chair in Chem- outreach to build the pipeline of applicants as through a variety of programs. “It is so satisfying to supplement online at www.welch1.org. istry, Baylor College of Medicine; and Thomas well as strengthen the WSSP alumni network. know that what we do really makes a difference,” A. Kent and Roderic I. Pettigrew, both named to Initiatives include an expanded social media said Norbert Dittrich, Welch president. “Interacting Departmental Research Grants Welch Chairs in Chemistry at Texas A&M Uni- presence and measures targeting geographic versity Health Science Center. areas of the state that typically lag in applicants regularly with some of the state’s leading scientists, Small- and medium-size colleges and to the program, including Laredo and the hearing from students exploring an interest in science universities across the state play an important Welch Summer Scholar Program Rio Grande Valley. role in educating students in the sciences in WSSP has been working with ChemBridge, and supporting young chemists at the beginning of general and chemistry in particular. However, Launched in 1983, the Welch Summer a dual-credit program focused on school districts their careers – they all drive home the value of what the resources needed to provide a robust research Scholar Program has welcomed more than 1,700 underrepresented at UT Austin, and making con- experience can be limited at smaller campuses. bright high school students to take part in its tact with teachers and counselors at these schools. we do. The importance of fundamental work in So for much of its history, The Welch Foundation immersive college research experience. In 2017, One 2017 applicant came through ChemBridge science can’t be overstated. This basic inquiry lays the has provided funding to many of these schools WSSP hosted 41 students on five Texas campuses. and Dr. Webb believes that will grow. to help build and strengthen their chemistry Each student is paired with a faculty researcher “This is a special program that touches and foundation for real improvements in our world that programs and provide opportunities for more in the program, which includes room and board changes so many lives,” she added. “For many of touch all our lives. I do believe our dedicated focus students to take part in hands-on research. on campus during the five-week session. our scholars, it opens doors that they didn’t even In 2017, 39 Texas colleges and universities Joining faculty research groups, the 2017 know were there. Witnessing their growth and has contributed to the growth of a robust research received Welch support. Descriptions of how two summer scholars gained hands-on experience passion for science is rewarding for all of us who Welch scholars spend five are part of WSSP.” environment in the state.” of them, St. Edward’s University and University weeks as part of a faculty in such areas as chemical synthesis, chemical of the Incarnate Word, have put those funds to member’s research team. biology, biophysics, analytical chemistry, good use can be found in the foundation grants materials science and computational modeling. section starting on page 14.

12 13

Welch AR 2017–v7A.indd 12-13 6/19/18 8:33 AM PROGRAMS Spurring Research, Research in chemistry can inspire in “This comprehensive program gives students Educational Initiatives students a sense of discovery and passion for a rich, meaningful research experience while scientific inquiry – enthusiasm and excitement also teaching them chemical safety and hygiene, that is difficult to create through book learning respect for laboratory and environmental alone. Many of the students these programs reach resources, data collection and management, and have never had an opportunity to experience effective communications skills,” said Lauren research for themselves. In many cases, these J. Webb, associate chemistry professor at The young men and women go on to seek advanced University of Texas at Austin, now in her third Research Grants degrees and careers in science and medicine. year overseeing the program. “The scholars Departmental grants allow the schools consistently tell us that the experience of living The Welch Foundation awarded $24.9 to offer research opportunities to students, on a college campus is just as important to their million in grants to 106 researchers at 14 Texas support faculty work and enhance chemistry personal growth as the research itself.“ institutions in 2017. Support included funding programs. The departments typically use The program’s goal is to encourage 29 new proposals and renewing 77 projects. Welch funding to provide scholarships or participants’ pursuit of higher education and Overall, 346 principal investigators currently stipends for undergraduates and graduates, interest in the sciences. Dr. Webb notes that the receive Welch grants. The Foundation’s support purchase laboratory supplies and equipment, site directors are focusing on building a strong for chemical research since its inception in 1954 and underwrite student travel to participate in community of “Welchies” at each campus to now totals approximately $866 million through industry conferences. provide a fuller educational experience. Aug. 31, 2017. “As a Welch Summer Scholar of 2017, I feel Each research grant provides a minimum Welch Chairs that I achieved an incredible balance of summer of $65,000 a year and may be renewed based on recreation and laboratory work that contributed the proposal submitted by the principal investiga- The Welch Foundation endows 47 chairs at significantly to my development as a student and tor. The grant supports research in chemistry by a 21 Texas universities. This support is designed as an individual,” said one UT Austin participant. full-time faculty member with tenure or on tenure to recruit and retain talented chemical research- “I never imagined I would be able to track at institutions of higher education in Texas. ers and teachers to Texas universities as well as work closely with grad students, post docs or A list of principal investigators receiving strengthen the quality of higher education pro- professors before entering college, but the Welch Welch Summer Scholars are introduced to college life while gaining Welch Foundation grants during its 2017 fiscal grams across the state. The Foundation provides program let me do just that,” said a University of first-hand experience in chemical research. year, Sept. 1, 2016, to Aug. 31, 2017, begins on ongoing research funding for chair holders, help- Houston scholar. “I got first-hand experience of page 18. The listing includes researchers’ insti- ing support graduate and postdoctoral students how unpredictable yet rewarding studying and The Welch Foundation has supported basic research tutions and the titles of their research projects. working with the professors. working in the science field is.” in chemistry across Texas for more than 60 years Some grants are highlighted starting on page Three new chair holders were named in The year also saw a continued focus on 14. More information is available in the research 2017: Thomas Westbrook, Welch Chair in Chem- outreach to build the pipeline of applicants as through a variety of programs. “It is so satisfying to supplement online at www.welch1.org. istry, Baylor College of Medicine; and Thomas well as strengthen the WSSP alumni network. know that what we do really makes a difference,” A. Kent and Roderic I. Pettigrew, both named to Initiatives include an expanded social media said Norbert Dittrich, Welch president. “Interacting Departmental Research Grants Welch Chairs in Chemistry at Texas A&M Uni- presence and measures targeting geographic versity Health Science Center. areas of the state that typically lag in applicants regularly with some of the state’s leading scientists, Small- and medium-size colleges and to the program, including Laredo and the hearing from students exploring an interest in science universities across the state play an important Welch Summer Scholar Program Rio Grande Valley. role in educating students in the sciences in WSSP has been working with ChemBridge, and supporting young chemists at the beginning of general and chemistry in particular. However, Launched in 1983, the Welch Summer a dual-credit program focused on school districts their careers – they all drive home the value of what the resources needed to provide a robust research Scholar Program has welcomed more than 1,700 underrepresented at UT Austin, and making con- experience can be limited at smaller campuses. bright high school students to take part in its tact with teachers and counselors at these schools. we do. The importance of fundamental work in So for much of its history, The Welch Foundation immersive college research experience. In 2017, One 2017 applicant came through ChemBridge science can’t be overstated. This basic inquiry lays the has provided funding to many of these schools WSSP hosted 41 students on five Texas campuses. and Dr. Webb believes that will grow. to help build and strengthen their chemistry Each student is paired with a faculty researcher “This is a special program that touches and foundation for real improvements in our world that programs and provide opportunities for more in the program, which includes room and board changes so many lives,” she added. “For many of touch all our lives. I do believe our dedicated focus students to take part in hands-on research. on campus during the five-week session. our scholars, it opens doors that they didn’t even In 2017, 39 Texas colleges and universities Joining faculty research groups, the 2017 know were there. Witnessing their growth and has contributed to the growth of a robust research received Welch support. Descriptions of how two summer scholars gained hands-on experience passion for science is rewarding for all of us who Welch scholars spend five are part of WSSP.” environment in the state.” of them, St. Edward’s University and University weeks as part of a faculty in such areas as chemical synthesis, chemical of the Incarnate Word, have put those funds to member’s research team. biology, biophysics, analytical chemistry, good use can be found in the foundation grants materials science and computational modeling. section starting on page 14.

12 13

Welch AR 2017–v7A.indd 12-13 6/19/18 8:33 AM FOUNDATION GRANTS Welch Funding Supports graduate school and a career in the sciences.” abnormal conditions such as cancer. He is par- New Science Across Texas In 2017, the summer program hosted 12 ticularly interested in steroid hormone receptors, students working with faculty members on three such as estrogen receptors. research projects. Betsy Leverett’s students inves- A leader in this field since the early 1970s, tigated unicellular species of algae to determine Dr. Gustafsson has published more than 1,000 their ability to interfere with bacterial quorum papers on receptors’ structure and mechanisms. communication signals. Such a property could In one key contribution, he detailed the recep- lead to new antibacterial treatments. However, tors’ DNA-binding mechanism. In another Bryan W. Davies leads are truly effective and safe in humans, the like so much of scientific research, neither of the paradigm-shifting breakthrough, he was the first Principal Investigator researchers have demonstrated that at least one strains examined appeared particularly effective to discover a second estrogen receptor, called es- The University of Texas at Austin such molecule, dubbed P7, also kills other forms in this role. trogen receptor beta, in 1996 (the alpha receptor With antibiotic resistance growing and of pathogenic bacteria and is safe in mice. “While less exciting for the students involved had long been identified). While interdependent, no new drug classes coming online in several “We can screen thousands of candidates in in the project, the findings still provided an estrogen’s two receptors function very differ- decades, the search for new treatments is a major our lab. Just think if we had 1,000 labs using this important lesson,” Dr. Garner noted. “Sometimes ently: The estrogen receptor alpha enhances cell global health imperative. Now, a technique devel- technique,” he enthused. “This would really ex- research leads to dead ends or disproves the division and growth – an issue in breast and oped by UT researcher Bryan Davies is helping pand our ability to find new treatments effective theory we were testing. Yet researchers have to uterine cancer – while the beta receptor is anti- power that quest. against diseases – without harming or killing the glean what they can from these ‘failures’ and use proliferative. Working with postdoc Ashley Tucker and patient. The more players, the more likely we are that to inform/improve the next experiment.” Using mouse models to study the two recep- Bryan Davies others on his team, Dr. Davies has shown how the to find a win.” Welch scholars in Rachell Booth’s laboratory tors separately, Dr. Gustafsson’s lab has shown SLAY (Surface Localized Antimicrobial Display) Dr. Davies is encouraging other academic purified BLINaC anitbodies from rabbit serum that estrogen receptor beta may be particularly technique can use bacteria to create, test and labs to adopt his approach while also working for use in cellular locationization studies in mice effective in counteracting certain cancers, includ- report back on potential drugs that can inhibit with UT to obtain patents and potentially create brains in an effort to unravel its role. The third ing prostate and lung. He is working to map their growth. a start-up company to use the platform to drive group, under Dr. Garner’s guidance, researched these reactions to create the basis for new drugs. “Our goal is to improve health outcomes by development of new drugs. light-activated antimicrobial cancer drugs. His current goal is to convince clinicians and developing proteins and peptides to treat dis- After joining the UT faculty in 2013, Dr. The five-week summer session starts with an pharmaceutical companies that receptor-activa- eases. While peptides have long been considered Davies received his first Welch grant in 2015. introduction to research and then concludes with tion drugs may be a promising new treatment a rich potential source of new antibiotics, they “Welch was an early supporter of this idea,” each student presenting the results of his or her avenue and move the research from the lab into are very difficult to work with,” he said. “SLAY is he explained. “We met a lot of skepticism early work. Most students go on to present at local or human trials. a major leap forward, speeding up the screening on so Welch funding was critical to really getting regional American Chemical Society conferences One of Sweden’s most noted scientists, Dr. process to identify likely candidates for additional the work moving. This ability to try new things is and, in several cases, have seen their research Gustafsson was lured to Texas in 2009. He is research and potential drug development.” such a treasure for researchers here in Texas.” published. the founding director of the Center for Nuclear His new approach harvests the fast-growing “A number of our students continue research Receptors and Cell Signaling at the University properties of bacteria themselves to quickly Robert Garner during the school year and often participate in of Houston, created with funding from both the screen for effective antimicrobial agents, allowing Departmental Grant a second summer session,” Dr. Garner noted. state and The Welch Foundation. He holds two researchers to test thousands of potential com- University of the Incarnate Word “The opportunity to work in a lab really lights professorships: The Robert A. Welch Professor of pounds at a time. And when they find a promis- The University of the Incarnate Word in San a spark in these students.” He points proudly to Biology and Biochemistry at UH and Professor ing candidate, they can then just as quickly test Antonio serves a student population that includes the 10 undergraduates who went on to graduate of Medical Nutrition at Karolinska Institutet in thousands of derivatives to pinpoint the most many first-generation college students and a programs or jobs in industry last year. Stockholm. effective option. student body that is 56 percent Hispanic and 61 “The Welch Foundation has been critical to “Moving my lab to Texas allowed me to keep “Poetic justice, perhaps?” Dr. Davies laughed, percent female. Its department of chemistry and building and expanding our program,” Dr. Gar- doing the research I love after the mandatory excited about the idea of harnessing bacteria to biochemistry offers undergraduate degrees, with ner added. “This is often the student’s first experi- retirement age in my homeland,” he noted. “And find their own nemeses. 10 faculty members and 88 students majoring in ence with full-time research. It greatly enriches the robust research climate in the state, com- The assistant professor of molecular biosci- the two fields in 2017. Approximately one-third the educational opportunity we can offer them.” bined with Welch Foundation support, has been ences is working with other UT researchers, both of them apply each year to participate in the instrumental in my work,” he said. on the basic chemistry of peptides and in building summer research program, funded in large part Jan-Åke Gustafsson The UH center he founded serves as a Robert Garner on his work to conduct more detailed research on through the Welch grant. Welch Chair in Chemistry research hub to spur collaboration among aca- potential antibiotic candidates. “It is so gratifying to see these students re- University of Houston demia, medicine and industry, translating basic As proof of concept, Dr. Davies’ team ally grow in the lab,” said Robert Garner, new Jan-Åke Gustafsson’s research has long scientific findings into potential clinical applica- screened about 800,000 peptides for antimicrobi- department chair and six-year faculty member. focused on understanding how nuclear receptors tions. It has become nationally recognized for its al effects. Of those, several thousand killed E. coli “Theory is important, but the chance to see that regulate gene expression. Present in almost all scientific advances in prostate cancer, diabetes, bacteria, making them potential leads for antibiot- information applied in actual research projects re- tissues, these proteins regulate transcription by degenerative neurological disease and cancer im- ics. While follow-up research will be necessary to ally cements the knowledge. For many students, binding hormones or other molecules, and play munotherapy. determine which, if any, of the thousands of new this experience is what inspires them to pursue Jan-Åke Gustafsson important roles in both normal physiology and “The ability to collaborate within UH, with

14 15

Welch AR 2017–v7A.indd 14-15 6/19/18 8:33 AM FOUNDATION GRANTS Welch Funding Supports graduate school and a career in the sciences.” abnormal conditions such as cancer. He is par- New Science Across Texas In 2017, the summer program hosted 12 ticularly interested in steroid hormone receptors, students working with faculty members on three such as estrogen receptors. research projects. Betsy Leverett’s students inves- A leader in this field since the early 1970s, tigated unicellular species of algae to determine Dr. Gustafsson has published more than 1,000 their ability to interfere with bacterial quorum papers on receptors’ structure and mechanisms. communication signals. Such a property could In one key contribution, he detailed the recep- lead to new antibacterial treatments. However, tors’ DNA-binding mechanism. In another Bryan W. Davies leads are truly effective and safe in humans, the like so much of scientific research, neither of the paradigm-shifting breakthrough, he was the first Principal Investigator researchers have demonstrated that at least one strains examined appeared particularly effective to discover a second estrogen receptor, called es- The University of Texas at Austin such molecule, dubbed P7, also kills other forms in this role. trogen receptor beta, in 1996 (the alpha receptor With antibiotic resistance growing and of pathogenic bacteria and is safe in mice. “While less exciting for the students involved had long been identified). While interdependent, no new drug classes coming online in several “We can screen thousands of candidates in in the project, the findings still provided an estrogen’s two receptors function very differ- decades, the search for new treatments is a major our lab. Just think if we had 1,000 labs using this important lesson,” Dr. Garner noted. “Sometimes ently: The estrogen receptor alpha enhances cell global health imperative. Now, a technique devel- technique,” he enthused. “This would really ex- research leads to dead ends or disproves the division and growth – an issue in breast and oped by UT researcher Bryan Davies is helping pand our ability to find new treatments effective theory we were testing. Yet researchers have to uterine cancer – while the beta receptor is anti- power that quest. against diseases – without harming or killing the glean what they can from these ‘failures’ and use proliferative. Working with postdoc Ashley Tucker and patient. The more players, the more likely we are that to inform/improve the next experiment.” Using mouse models to study the two recep- Bryan Davies others on his team, Dr. Davies has shown how the to find a win.” Welch scholars in Rachell Booth’s laboratory tors separately, Dr. Gustafsson’s lab has shown SLAY (Surface Localized Antimicrobial Display) Dr. Davies is encouraging other academic purified BLINaC anitbodies from rabbit serum that estrogen receptor beta may be particularly technique can use bacteria to create, test and labs to adopt his approach while also working for use in cellular locationization studies in mice effective in counteracting certain cancers, includ- report back on potential drugs that can inhibit with UT to obtain patents and potentially create brains in an effort to unravel its role. The third ing prostate and lung. He is working to map their growth. a start-up company to use the platform to drive group, under Dr. Garner’s guidance, researched these reactions to create the basis for new drugs. “Our goal is to improve health outcomes by development of new drugs. light-activated antimicrobial cancer drugs. His current goal is to convince clinicians and developing proteins and peptides to treat dis- After joining the UT faculty in 2013, Dr. The five-week summer session starts with an pharmaceutical companies that receptor-activa- eases. While peptides have long been considered Davies received his first Welch grant in 2015. introduction to research and then concludes with tion drugs may be a promising new treatment a rich potential source of new antibiotics, they “Welch was an early supporter of this idea,” each student presenting the results of his or her avenue and move the research from the lab into are very difficult to work with,” he said. “SLAY is he explained. “We met a lot of skepticism early work. Most students go on to present at local or human trials. a major leap forward, speeding up the screening on so Welch funding was critical to really getting regional American Chemical Society conferences One of Sweden’s most noted scientists, Dr. process to identify likely candidates for additional the work moving. This ability to try new things is and, in several cases, have seen their research Gustafsson was lured to Texas in 2009. He is research and potential drug development.” such a treasure for researchers here in Texas.” published. the founding director of the Center for Nuclear His new approach harvests the fast-growing “A number of our students continue research Receptors and Cell Signaling at the University properties of bacteria themselves to quickly Robert Garner during the school year and often participate in of Houston, created with funding from both the screen for effective antimicrobial agents, allowing Departmental Grant a second summer session,” Dr. Garner noted. state and The Welch Foundation. He holds two researchers to test thousands of potential com- University of the Incarnate Word “The opportunity to work in a lab really lights professorships: The Robert A. Welch Professor of pounds at a time. And when they find a promis- The University of the Incarnate Word in San a spark in these students.” He points proudly to Biology and Biochemistry at UH and Professor ing candidate, they can then just as quickly test Antonio serves a student population that includes the 10 undergraduates who went on to graduate of Medical Nutrition at Karolinska Institutet in thousands of derivatives to pinpoint the most many first-generation college students and a programs or jobs in industry last year. Stockholm. effective option. student body that is 56 percent Hispanic and 61 “The Welch Foundation has been critical to “Moving my lab to Texas allowed me to keep “Poetic justice, perhaps?” Dr. Davies laughed, percent female. Its department of chemistry and building and expanding our program,” Dr. Gar- doing the research I love after the mandatory excited about the idea of harnessing bacteria to biochemistry offers undergraduate degrees, with ner added. “This is often the student’s first experi- retirement age in my homeland,” he noted. “And find their own nemeses. 10 faculty members and 88 students majoring in ence with full-time research. It greatly enriches the robust research climate in the state, com- The assistant professor of molecular biosci- the two fields in 2017. Approximately one-third the educational opportunity we can offer them.” bined with Welch Foundation support, has been ences is working with other UT researchers, both of them apply each year to participate in the instrumental in my work,” he said. on the basic chemistry of peptides and in building summer research program, funded in large part Jan-Åke Gustafsson The UH center he founded serves as a Robert Garner on his work to conduct more detailed research on through the Welch grant. Welch Chair in Chemistry research hub to spur collaboration among aca- potential antibiotic candidates. “It is so gratifying to see these students re- University of Houston demia, medicine and industry, translating basic As proof of concept, Dr. Davies’ team ally grow in the lab,” said Robert Garner, new Jan-Åke Gustafsson’s research has long scientific findings into potential clinical applica- screened about 800,000 peptides for antimicrobi- department chair and six-year faculty member. focused on understanding how nuclear receptors tions. It has become nationally recognized for its al effects. Of those, several thousand killed E. coli “Theory is important, but the chance to see that regulate gene expression. Present in almost all scientific advances in prostate cancer, diabetes, bacteria, making them potential leads for antibiot- information applied in actual research projects re- tissues, these proteins regulate transcription by degenerative neurological disease and cancer im- ics. While follow-up research will be necessary to ally cements the knowledge. For many students, binding hormones or other molecules, and play munotherapy. determine which, if any, of the thousands of new this experience is what inspires them to pursue Jan-Åke Gustafsson important roles in both normal physiology and “The ability to collaborate within UH, with

14 15

Welch AR 2017–v7A.indd 14-15 6/19/18 8:33 AM other institutions in the Texas Medical Center interests into plasmonics – a move made easier troscope, which has significantly expanded the coordination bonds are more reactive, making and across the globe, plus industry’s involvement by flexible Welch funding, he reported. school’s research capability. kinetics a central consideration. His approach means we have been able to deliver real value in In a 2011 Science paper, Dr. Nordlander Summer research projects ranged from the takes the most inert steps first to preserve the only a short space of time,” Dr. Gustafsson added. showed that plasmons could generate “hot” elec- development of a prion-like model that explains structure and then streamlines the next steps trons, and he followed that in 2013 with a dem- aspects of potential causes of the debilitating based on kinetics. Peter Nordlander onstration of their use as catalysts for chemical disease ALS; work to detail the functions of a Dr. Zhou has led the way in ligand design Principal Investigator reactions – work he continues to build on today. fungus with biocontrol properties; synthesis to tune the structure and function of MOFs. His Rice University “The Welch Foundation was a key factor in of a family of model enzyme complexes and lab also has demonstrated that single metal- Theoretical chemist Peter Nordlander is convincing me to come to Texas,” he remem- electronic structure calculations characteriz- organic cages can be assembled into a network interested in photocatalysis, exploring how to bered. “They have been the most important ing their properties; and the development of a of cavities, which improves the porosity of a use light to steer and enhance chemical reactions. source of funding for me over the years – not portable imaging system. framework dramatically. His ultimate goal is to improve sustainability by necessarily in terms of the amount, but because St. Edward’s offers undergraduate degrees in Recently, he formed a start-up company replacing today’s chemical catalysts, and their of the funding’s flexibility that allows me to chemistry and biochemistry as well as environ- to commercialize framework materials for use related environmental impacts and energy pursue new ideas. The seed projects, in turn, mental and forensic chemistry. During the 2016- in clean energy, particularly methane storage needs, with light. help generate the results needed to secure federal 17 academic year, three papers were published and carbon capture. Working with the National As an example, he explains that ammonia dollars. It has been a fruitful and productive based on Welch-supported research and 12 Science Foundation, a phase-two demonstration Peter Nordlander production, which involved splitting nitrogen relationship.” students received summer research stipends. project in Wyoming is determining the scal- atoms, consumes two to three percent of total All presented their work locally, seven at a ability of using MOFs to capture methane from global energy use. “We are getting closer – Tricia Shepherd national conference, and five at the American shale gas, thus reducing emissions from flaring. although not yet close – to using sunlight to Departmental Grant Chemical Society’s spring meeting. Eighteen Another project is looking at converting shale power that reaction instead,” he said. St. Edward’s University students went on to either graduate programs gas to higher-value products such as fuels. His research looks at using metallic or Since joining St. Edward’s as chair of the or industry positions. “Much of this work has been made possible bimetallic nanoparticles to induce the optical chemistry department four years ago, physical “It has been a whirlwind four years,” Dr. by Welch funding,” Dr. Zhou said. “It’s nice to properties necessary for such reactions to occur, chemist Tricia Shepherd has been focused on rein- Shepherd laughed. “Next we will be seeking ACS go back to Mr. Welch’s energy roots – repaying a process called plasmon-enhanced photoca- venting the department and its research program. approval for a new chemistry major, which is him in some small part for his visionary support very exciting. Now that we have the core estab- of basic research in chemistry.” talysis. One area of his research looks to mimic “Our goal is to up the caliber of the research Tricia Shepherd the photosynthetic process by which plants we do. All of our students still complete at least lished, we will move forward with building and In addition to his gas storage work, Dr. advertising the program.” Zhou also has pioneered applications of MOFs use sunlight to split carbon dioxide (CO2) into one semester of research and we are embedding carbohydrates (for food) and oxygen. “Nature is more research into the curriculum, with more in bio-related catalysis and designed a multi- already pretty efficient, but we’d like to scale this emphasis on active learning and less on lectur- Hongcai Joe Zhou functional nano-platform for the photodynamic up and make the process even more efficient,” ing,” she explained. “At the same time, we are Welch Chair in Chemistry therapy of cancer. Dr. Nordlander said. focusing more on quality research that delivers Texas A&M University Dr. Zhou says he learned from two masters: He also is exploring nanoparticles as cata- publishable results. The plan is to develop a Joe Zhou is a leading researcher exploring Earning a Ph.D. working with Al Cotton at lysts to separate hydrogen from water using light. more sustainable research model that produces metal-organic frameworks, or MOFs, a field A&M before completing his postdoc with Dick The ultimate goal will be to create an efficient, results that attract more funding that, in turn, growing exponentially in the last two decades. Holm at Harvard – both men previous Welch clean fuel to power cars and other vehicles, supports more research.” MOFs’ value lies in their ultrahigh porosity, Award recipients. He joined the A&M faculty generating water as a byproduct rather than the Dr. Shepherd added that this new approach large internal surface area and the extraordi- in 2008 from Ohio’s Miami University and was more polluting emissions from today’s gasoline- gives more lab time to the most interested nary variability of the structures’ organic and named to a Welch chair in 2015. In addition to and diesel-fueled engines. and promising students and has already inorganic components. Potential applications his research, he has been an able advocate for Dr. Nordlander came to Rice in 1990, hired resulted in more students continuing on to are as diverse as gas storage and separation, fuel science, including guest editing the first-ever by former Welch Awardee and Nobel laureate graduate programs. cells and solar harvesting to thin-film devices, Chem. Rev. issue on MOFs, serving as associate Rick Smalley in the early days of nanotechnol- “The Welch grant – and the research it biomedical imaging and cancer treatment. editor for Inorganic Chemistry, and traveling the ogy. Over the years, he has worked closely makes possible – has been key in helping recruit Dr. Zhou has been instrumental in devel- world as a global “ACS Ambassador” for with other Rice scientists to test his theoretical new faculty interested in research,” she said. oping a toolkit that allows scientists to tailor chemistry, among many other educational designs and modeling with experiments. He With three out of five faculty members new MOFs for specific purposes by controlling their and outreach efforts. attributes much of his success to these symbiotic in the past five years, the department has porosity and function. Building on a process relationships. increased its diversity and expanded research developed by E. J. Corey for synthesizing or- His initial work at Rice focused on nanoclu- projects and funding. ganic compounds – for which the former Welch sters before moving on to bigger nanoparticles Most Welch grant money goes to support Scientific Advisory Board member was awarded Hongcai Joe Zhou where his goal was to understand how plasmons the school’s summer research institute, but a the Nobel Prize – Dr. Zhou’s tools take a step- could mitigate their absorption properties. At change in the Welch budget cycle freed up funds by-step approach to synthesis. However, unlike the turn of the century, he switched his research to purchase a nuclear magnetic resonance spec- the covalent bonds in natural products, MOFs’

16 17

Welch AR 2017–v7A.indd 16-17 6/19/18 8:33 AM other institutions in the Texas Medical Center interests into plasmonics – a move made easier troscope, which has significantly expanded the coordination bonds are more reactive, making and across the globe, plus industry’s involvement by flexible Welch funding, he reported. school’s research capability. kinetics a central consideration. His approach means we have been able to deliver real value in In a 2011 Science paper, Dr. Nordlander Summer research projects ranged from the takes the most inert steps first to preserve the only a short space of time,” Dr. Gustafsson added. showed that plasmons could generate “hot” elec- development of a prion-like model that explains structure and then streamlines the next steps trons, and he followed that in 2013 with a dem- aspects of potential causes of the debilitating based on kinetics. Peter Nordlander onstration of their use as catalysts for chemical disease ALS; work to detail the functions of a Dr. Zhou has led the way in ligand design Principal Investigator reactions – work he continues to build on today. fungus with biocontrol properties; synthesis to tune the structure and function of MOFs. His Rice University “The Welch Foundation was a key factor in of a family of model enzyme complexes and lab also has demonstrated that single metal- Theoretical chemist Peter Nordlander is convincing me to come to Texas,” he remem- electronic structure calculations characteriz- organic cages can be assembled into a network interested in photocatalysis, exploring how to bered. “They have been the most important ing their properties; and the development of a of cavities, which improves the porosity of a use light to steer and enhance chemical reactions. source of funding for me over the years – not portable imaging system. framework dramatically. His ultimate goal is to improve sustainability by necessarily in terms of the amount, but because St. Edward’s offers undergraduate degrees in Recently, he formed a start-up company replacing today’s chemical catalysts, and their of the funding’s flexibility that allows me to chemistry and biochemistry as well as environ- to commercialize framework materials for use related environmental impacts and energy pursue new ideas. The seed projects, in turn, mental and forensic chemistry. During the 2016- in clean energy, particularly methane storage needs, with light. help generate the results needed to secure federal 17 academic year, three papers were published and carbon capture. Working with the National As an example, he explains that ammonia dollars. It has been a fruitful and productive based on Welch-supported research and 12 Science Foundation, a phase-two demonstration Peter Nordlander production, which involved splitting nitrogen relationship.” students received summer research stipends. project in Wyoming is determining the scal- atoms, consumes two to three percent of total All presented their work locally, seven at a ability of using MOFs to capture methane from global energy use. “We are getting closer – Tricia Shepherd national conference, and five at the American shale gas, thus reducing emissions from flaring. although not yet close – to using sunlight to Departmental Grant Chemical Society’s spring meeting. Eighteen Another project is looking at converting shale power that reaction instead,” he said. St. Edward’s University students went on to either graduate programs gas to higher-value products such as fuels. His research looks at using metallic or Since joining St. Edward’s as chair of the or industry positions. “Much of this work has been made possible bimetallic nanoparticles to induce the optical chemistry department four years ago, physical “It has been a whirlwind four years,” Dr. by Welch funding,” Dr. Zhou said. “It’s nice to properties necessary for such reactions to occur, chemist Tricia Shepherd has been focused on rein- Shepherd laughed. “Next we will be seeking ACS go back to Mr. Welch’s energy roots – repaying a process called plasmon-enhanced photoca- venting the department and its research program. approval for a new chemistry major, which is him in some small part for his visionary support very exciting. Now that we have the core estab- of basic research in chemistry.” talysis. One area of his research looks to mimic “Our goal is to up the caliber of the research Tricia Shepherd the photosynthetic process by which plants we do. All of our students still complete at least lished, we will move forward with building and In addition to his gas storage work, Dr. advertising the program.” Zhou also has pioneered applications of MOFs use sunlight to split carbon dioxide (CO2) into one semester of research and we are embedding carbohydrates (for food) and oxygen. “Nature is more research into the curriculum, with more in bio-related catalysis and designed a multi- already pretty efficient, but we’d like to scale this emphasis on active learning and less on lectur- Hongcai Joe Zhou functional nano-platform for the photodynamic up and make the process even more efficient,” ing,” she explained. “At the same time, we are Welch Chair in Chemistry therapy of cancer. Dr. Nordlander said. focusing more on quality research that delivers Texas A&M University Dr. Zhou says he learned from two masters: He also is exploring nanoparticles as cata- publishable results. The plan is to develop a Joe Zhou is a leading researcher exploring Earning a Ph.D. working with Al Cotton at lysts to separate hydrogen from water using light. more sustainable research model that produces metal-organic frameworks, or MOFs, a field A&M before completing his postdoc with Dick The ultimate goal will be to create an efficient, results that attract more funding that, in turn, growing exponentially in the last two decades. Holm at Harvard – both men previous Welch clean fuel to power cars and other vehicles, supports more research.” MOFs’ value lies in their ultrahigh porosity, Award recipients. He joined the A&M faculty generating water as a byproduct rather than the Dr. Shepherd added that this new approach large internal surface area and the extraordi- in 2008 from Ohio’s Miami University and was more polluting emissions from today’s gasoline- gives more lab time to the most interested nary variability of the structures’ organic and named to a Welch chair in 2015. In addition to and diesel-fueled engines. and promising students and has already inorganic components. Potential applications his research, he has been an able advocate for Dr. Nordlander came to Rice in 1990, hired resulted in more students continuing on to are as diverse as gas storage and separation, fuel science, including guest editing the first-ever by former Welch Awardee and Nobel laureate graduate programs. cells and solar harvesting to thin-film devices, Chem. Rev. issue on MOFs, serving as associate Rick Smalley in the early days of nanotechnol- “The Welch grant – and the research it biomedical imaging and cancer treatment. editor for Inorganic Chemistry, and traveling the ogy. Over the years, he has worked closely makes possible – has been key in helping recruit Dr. Zhou has been instrumental in devel- world as a global “ACS Ambassador” for with other Rice scientists to test his theoretical new faculty interested in research,” she said. oping a toolkit that allows scientists to tailor chemistry, among many other educational designs and modeling with experiments. He With three out of five faculty members new MOFs for specific purposes by controlling their and outreach efforts. attributes much of his success to these symbiotic in the past five years, the department has porosity and function. Building on a process relationships. increased its diversity and expanded research developed by E. J. Corey for synthesizing or- His initial work at Rice focused on nanoclu- projects and funding. ganic compounds – for which the former Welch sters before moving on to bigger nanoparticles Most Welch grant money goes to support Scientific Advisory Board member was awarded Hongcai Joe Zhou where his goal was to understand how plasmons the school’s summer research institute, but a the Nobel Prize – Dr. Zhou’s tools take a step- could mitigate their absorption properties. At change in the Welch budget cycle freed up funds by-step approach to synthesis. However, unlike the turn of the century, he switched his research to purchase a nuclear magnetic resonance spec- the covalent bonds in natural products, MOFs’

16 17

Welch AR 2017–v7A.indd 16-17 6/19/18 8:33 AM PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATORS

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR INSTITUTION TITLE OF RESEARCH PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR INSTITUTION TITLE OF RESEARCH

John M. Abrams The University of Texas Apoptosome Caspase Control by Tango7 Eric R. Bittner University of Houston Theoretical Studies of Ultrafast and Coherent Charge- Southwestern Medical Center Separation Dynamics in Organic Photovoltaic Systems

Jung-Mo Ahn The University of Texas at Dallas Tailoring Small Molecules to Mimic Protein Helical Surfaces Paul Blount The University of Texas Determining Protein-Lipid and Protein-Protein Interactions for Southwestern Medical Center a Channel Involved in Mechanosensing Erez Lieberman Aiden Baylor College of Medicine Mapping Chromatin Loop Dynamics in Differentiating Hematopoetic Cells Jennifer S. Brodbelt The University of Texas at Austin Impact of Charges on Protein Fragmentation

Hal S. Alper The University of Texas at Austin Diversification of Biologically-Derived Oleochemicals Maurice Brookhart University of Houston New Pd(II) and Ni(II) Catalysts for Olefin Polymerizations and Through a Combinatorial Approach Copolymerizations

Neal M. Alto The University of Texas Post-Translational Modification of Host Enzymes by Bacterial Richard K. Bruick The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center Effector Proteins Southwestern Medical Center Isoform-Selective Regulation of HIF-Alpha by Isoprenoids

Andrea Alù The University of Texas at Austin Giant Sensitivity and Broadband Circular Dichroism in Kevin Burgess Texas A&M University Ladder-Rung Mimics for Perturbing Protein-Protein Interactions Plasmonic Metamaterials Shawn C. Burgess The University of Texas Dysregulation of Intermediary Metabolism During Disease Meigan Aronson Texas A&M University Accelerating the Search for New Topological Materials Using Southwestern Medical Center in-situ X-ray Diffraction Measurements and Electronic Structure Calculations Walter G. Chapman Rice University Structure and Properties of Complex Fluids in the Bulk and Interfacial Regions Vaibhav Bahadur The University of Texas at Austin Role of Surface Chemistry and Interfacial Charge on Methane Hydrate Nucleation James R. Chelikowsky The University of Texas at Austin Simulating Direct Images of the Covalent Bond from Atomic Force Microscopy Carlos R. Baiz The University of Texas at Austin Studies in Biophysical Chemistry: Applications of Ultrafast Infrared Spectroscopy Banglin Chen The University of Texas at San Antonio Functional Porous Metal-Organic Frameworks for Recognition of Small Molecules Aaron B. Baker The University of Texas at Austin Nanodisc-Based Delivery of Membrane Protein Therapeutics Chuo Chen The University of Texas Development of Anticancer Immunotherapeutic Agents Kenneth J. Balkus, Jr. The University of Texas at Dallas Zeolite Encapsulated Metal Complexes Southwestern Medical Center

Zachary T. Ball Rice University New Strategies for Catalytic Bond Formations Zheng Chen The University of Texas Molecular Mechanism of a Clock-Enhancing Natural Product Health Science Center at Houston Laura Banaszynski The University of Texas Role of Chromatin Remodeling in ALT-Positive Cancers Southwestern Medical Center Zhijian J. Chen The University of Texas Biochemical Mechanism of MAVS Activation by Prion-Like Southwestern Medical Center Polymerization Jiming Bao University of Houston Distinguishing Photocatalytic Activity of Different Cobalt Oxides Through Controlled Material Synthesis and Systematic Cheng-Ming Chiang The University of Texas Mechanistic Action of BET Compound Inhibitors in Cancer Photoelectrochemical Investigation Southwestern Medical Center Therapeutics

David P. Barondeau Texas A&M University Evolving Metallocofactor Chemistry Through Second Shell Wah Chiu Baylor College of Medicine Structures of Viruses by Cryo-Electron Mictoscopy and Interactions Tomography

Jeffrey E. Barrick The University of Texas at Austin Comparing the Chemical Utility of Alternative Genetic Codes Yuh Min Chook The University of Texas Mechanisms of Importin 8-Medidated Nuclear Import Southwestern Medical Center Bonnie Bartel Rice University Novel Peroxisomal Processes in Plants David T. Chuang The University of Texas Mitochondrial Signaling by Reversible Phosphorylation Mikhail A. Belkin The University of Texas at Austin Mid-Infrared Vibrational Nanospectroscopy in Liquid Southwestern Medical Center Environment Abraham Clearfield Texas A&M University Surface Functionalization of Zirconium Phosphate and Matthew R. Bennett Rice University The Role of Protein/DNA Interactions in the Kinetics of Phosphonate for Drug Delivery, Lubrication and Catalysis Biochemical Networks Cecilia Clementi Rice University Mapping the Free Energy Landscape of Proteins by Combining David E. Bergbreiter Texas A&M University Multiphase Multicomponent Systems for Synthesis and Theory and Experiment Catalysis Melanie H. Cobb The University of Texas Regulatory and Catalytic Properties of MAP Kinase Cascades Ricardo A. Bernal The University of Texas at El Paso Deciphering the Structural and Functional Basis for Southwestern Medical Center Ring Separation in Chaperonins Jeffery L. Coffer Texas Christian University Probing New Confined Nanostructures and Associated W. E. Billups Rice University Chemistry of Carbon Nanomaterials Interfaces within Tunable Silicon Nanotubes

18 19

Welch AR 2017–v7A.indd 18-19 6/19/18 8:33 AM PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATORS

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR INSTITUTION TITLE OF RESEARCH PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR INSTITUTION TITLE OF RESEARCH

18 19

Welch AR 2017–v7A.indd 18-19 6/19/18 8:33 AM PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR INSTITUTION TITLE OF RESEARCH PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR INSTITUTION TITLE OF RESEARCH

Don M. Coltart University of Houston Asymmetric Carbon-Carbon Bond Formation from Rui-Rui Du Rice University Infrared and Microwave Spectroscopy of Atomically Layered Functionalized Azoalkenes Materials

Maralice Conacci-Sorrell The University of Texas Non-Canonical Functions of Mcy in Protein Acetylation and Kim R. Dunbar Texas A&M University Magnetic and Electronic Properties of Molecular Materials Southwestern Medical Center Chemoresistance F. Barry Dunning Rice University Studies Involving Molecules in High Rydberg States Jacinta C. Conrad University of Houston Structure and Dynamics of Attractive Nanoparticle Glasses Livia Schiavinato Eberlin The University of Texas at Austin Development of Ambient Ionization Ion Mobility Mass Nicholas K. Conrad The University of Texas Biochemical Analysis of a Novel S-adenosylmethionine Sensor Spectroscopy Imaging for Spatial and Chemical Lipid Analysis Southwestern Medical Center in Biological Samples

Lydia M. Contreras The University of Texas at Austin In Vivo Structural Characterization of Catalytic and Regulatory Ron Elber The University of Texas at Austin Bridging Temporal and Spatial Scales in Membrane Modeling RNAs Andrew D. Ellington The University of Texas at Austin Kinetic and Structural Characterization of the First Error- David R. Corey The University of Texas Recognition of Cellular Nucleic Acids by Synthetic Oligomers Correcting Reverse Transcriptase Southwestern Medical Center Jan P. Erzberger The University of Texas Structural and Biochemical Characterization of DEAD-Box Anthony Cozzolino Texas Tech University Photoisomerizable Ligands for Light Harvesting by Transition Southwestern Medical Center ATPase Function and Regulation During Ribosome Biogenesis Metal Complexes Donglei L. Fan The University of Texas at Austin Innovative Mechanism for the Synthesis of 3-D Nano- Luis G. Cuello Texas Tech University Crystallographic and Functional Studies in KcsA-Kv Channel Superstructures by Designed Catalysts Health Sciences Center Chimeras that Differ in C-Type Inactivation Properties Lei Fang Texas A&M University π-Conjugated Macrocyclic Molecular Belts Gregory Cuny University of Houston Synthesis of Conformational Restricted Natural Products Walter L. Fast The University of Texas at Austin Chemical Probes of Biological Catalysts Pengcheng Dai Rice University Transport, Magnetic, and Neutron Scattering Studies of Quantum Materials Shervin Fatehi The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Stochastic Methods for Highly Accurate Quantum Chemistry Extended to Nonadiabatic Molecular Dynamics Kevin N. Dalby The University of Texas at Austin Targeting MELK for Cancer Therapy Michael Findlater Texas Tech University Base-Metal Catalyzed Transformations Gaudenz Danuser The University of Texas Probing Oncogenic Functions of Vimentin Filaments by Small Southwestern Medical Center Molecule Screens Ilya J. Finkelstein The University of Texas at Austin Mapping the Proofreading Mechanisms of Cas9 Nuclease on a Hacked DNA Sequencer Donald J. Darensbourg Texas A&M University Design and Reactivity Studies of Metal Catalysts for the Production of Polycarbonates from Novel Oxiranes and Paul F. Fitzpatrick The University of Texas Mechanisms of Enzymes Carbon Dioxide Health Science Center at San Antonio

Marcetta Y. Darensbourg Texas A&M University Fundamental Chemistry that Controls Nitric Oxide Release, Skye Fortier The University of Texas at El Paso New Vistas in Early Actinide Chemistry Capture, or Retention in the Dinitrosyl Iron Unit Matthew S. Foster Rice University Quantum Coherence in Driven, Disordered and Topological Bryan W. Davies The University of Texas at Austin High-Throughput Chemical Screening for the Discovery and Many-Body Systems Development of Antimicrobial Peptides Kendra King Frederick The University of Texas Protein-Mediated Trans Splicing for Polymorphic Amyloid Jef K. De Brabander The University of Texas Synthesis and Chemical Biology of Bioactive Small Molecules Southwestern Medical Center Structure Determination Southwestern Medical Center Benny Dean Freeman The University of Texas at Austin Synthesis and Characterization of Water and Ion Transport in Ralph J. DeBerardinis The University of Texas Compartmentation of a Redox-Balancing Metabolic Activity in Novel Ion Exchange Membrane Polymers Southwestern Medical Center the Cancer Cell Peroxisome François P. Gabbaï Texas A&M University Tuning the Electrophilic Properties of Group 10 Metal Michael W. Deem Rice University Design of Novel Organic Structure Directing Agents for Zeolites Complexes Using Non-Innocent Antimony Z-Ligands

H. V. Rasika Dias The University of Texas at Arlington Metal Complexes of Highly Fluorinated Ligands Elyssia S. Gallagher Baylor University Can We Apply Hydrogen/Deuterium Exchange – Mass Spectrometry to Elucidate Glycan Binding Interactions? Loi H. Do University of Houston Site-Differentiated Platforms for Olefin Polymerization Catalysis Venkat Ganesan The University of Texas at Austin Fundamental Studies of Self-Assembly in Mixtures of Organic Sheel Dodani The University of Texas at Dallas Exploring the Negative (X-) Side of Biology: Molecular and and Inorganic Molecules Protein-Based Technologies for Imaging Cellular Chloride Isaac Garcia-Bosch Southern Methodist University Efficient, Sustainable and Selective Catalytic Systems for the Andreas Doncic The University of Texas Investigating Cell Fate Decisions During Yeast Sporulation Direct C-N Functionalization of C-H and C=C Bonds Based on Southwestern Medical Center Using Live Single Cell Metabolite Measurements Iron-Nitrenoid/Imido Species

Ivan D’Orso The University of Texas Cooperative Assembly of HIV Transcription Elongation John A. Gladysz Texas A&M University Werner Complexes as “Organocatalysts” Southwestern Medical Center Complexes Vishal M. Gohil Texas A&M University Phospholipid Requirements for Mitochondrial Structure and Peter Douglas The University of Texas Stress-Mediated Actin Phosphorylation in Endocytosis and Function Southwestern Medical Center Intestinal Barrier Function Ido Golding Baylor College of Medicine Gene Regulation by Transcription Factors: Single-Molecule Michael C. Downer The University of Texas at Austin Femtosecond Optical Probes of Nano-Interface Chemistry Chemistry in the Cell

Michael P. Doyle The University of Texas at San Antonio Selective Chemical Oxidations Elizabeth J. Goldsmith The University of Texas Kinetic and Chemistry of the p38 MAPK Cascade Southwestern Medical Center

20 21

Welch AR 2017–v7A.indd 20-21 6/19/18 8:33 AM PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR INSTITUTION TITLE OF RESEARCH PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR INSTITUTION TITLE OF RESEARCH

20 21

Welch AR 2017–v7A.indd 20-21 6/19/18 8:33 AM PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR INSTITUTION TITLE OF RESEARCH PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR INSTITUTION TITLE OF RESEARCH

John B. Goodenough The University of Texas at Austin Influence of Counter Cation in Mixed-Metal Oxides Simon M. Humphrey The University of Texas at Austin Design and Synthesis of New Metalloligands for the Construction of Phosphine Coordination Materials with Paolo Grigolini University of North Texas Emergence of Biological Complexity Advanced Solid-State Properties

Nick V. Grishin The University of Texas Discovering New Chemistries with Whole Genome Sequencing Gyeong S. Hwang The University of Texas at Austin First-Principles Investigation of the Structure, Chemistry and Southwestern Medical Center Function of Graphene-Like Nanomaterials

Arnold M. Guloy University of Houston Chemical Bonding and Properties of Polar Intermetallics Tatyana I. Igumenova Texas A&M University Pin1 “bites” the Tail: Regulatory Role of the C-Terminal Along the Border Between Metals and Nonmetals Domain of Protein Kinase C

Jason H. Hafner Rice University Surface Enhanced Spectroscopy for Biomembrane Structure Brent L. Iverson The University of Texas at Austin A New Family of Reporting Molecules

Naomi J. Halas Rice University Chemical and Photophysical Properties of Electron- Khuloud Jaqaman The University of Texas In situ Measurement of Inter-Receptor Interaction Kinetics on Delocalized Nanoparticles Southwestern Medical Center the Cell Surface

P. Shiv Halasyamani University of Houston Synthesis, Crystal Growth, Characterization, and Structure- Makkuni Jayaram The University of Texas at Austin Mechanistic Characterization and Functional Manipulation of Property Relationships in New Deep Ultraviolet Non-Linear Active Sites that Catalyze Nucleotidyl Transfer Reactions Optical Materials Jenna Jewel The University of Texas Deciphering the Glutamine Signaling Pathway to mTORC1 Michael B. Hall Texas A&M University Computational Chemistry on Transition Metal Systems Southwestern Medical Center

John C. Hardy Texas A&M University Nuclear Decay Studies Jean X. Jiang The University of Texas Modulating Hemichannel Activities Using Targeting Antibodies Health Science Center at San Antonio Rasika M. Harshey The University of Texas at Austin A Radical Proposal for How Transmembrane Transit of H+- Ions Can Generate an Oscillating Electric Field for Driving Jin Jiang The University of Texas Biochemical Study of Hh Signaling at the Primary Cilium Rotation of the Flagellar Motor Southwestern Medical Center

P. John Hart The University of Texas In silico Screening for Inhibitors of CARDS Toxin from M. Ning Jiang The University of Texas at Austin Identify Therapeutic Antibodies and Vaccine Candidates by Health Science Center at San Antonio pneumoniae Mining Human Antibody Repertoire in Malaria

Jeffrey D. Hartgerink Rice University Synthesis of Nanostructured Organic Materials via Self-Assembly Youxing Jiang The University of Texas Structural and Functional Studies of Ligand-Gated Cation Southwestern Medical Center Channels Kaden Hazzard Rice University Ultracold Nonreactive Molecules: From Collision Complexes to Complex Materials Lukasz Andrzej Joachimiak The University of Texas Structural Basis for Chaperone Function in Polyglutamine Southwestern Medical Center Aggregation Adam Heller The University of Texas at Austin Electrochemical and Bioelectrochemical Applications of Metal Oxide Templated Carbon Electrodes Kenneth A. Johnson The University of Texas at Austin Dynamics of Structural Changes Governing DNA and RNA Replication Graeme Henkelman The University of Texas at Austin Design of Materials for Energy Conversion and Storage Keith P. Johnston The University of Texas at Austin Controlled Assembly of Inorganic and Organic Nanoparticle W. Mike Henne The University of Texas Novel Pathways of ER-Endolysosomal Inter-Organelle Clusters Southwestern Medical Center Communication Richard A. Jones The University of Texas at Austin Molecular Precursors for New Functional Materials Ryan E. Hibbs The University of Texas Structural Principles of Inhibitory Neurotransmitter Receptor Southwestern Medical Center Modulation Miguel Jose Yacaman The University of Texas at San Antonio Designing Highly Active Noble Metal Catalysts Using Ni, Co and Cu: A New Generation of Catalyst Lea Hildebrandt Ruiz The University of Texas at Austin Effects of Chlorine Atoms on Tropospheric Oxidation Chemistry Karl M. Kadish University of Houston Electrochemistry and Spectroelectrochemistry of Compounds Christian B. Hilty Texas A&M University Characterization of Olefin Metathesis Using Dissolution with Multiple Redox Centers Dynamic Nuclear Polarization Craig D. Kaplan Texas A&M University Fundamental Mechanisms of RNA Polymerase II Transcription David M. Hoffman University of Houston Synthesis of Transition Metal Complexes with Di-Anionic Tridentate Pincer Ligands Adrian T. Keatinge-Clay The University of Texas at Austin Preparative Biocatalytic Synthesis of Complex Polyketides

Gary Chung Hon The University of Texas Epigenetic Control of Non-Coding Gene Regulation Ben Keitz The University of Texas at Austin Peptide Directed Synthesis of Metal-Organic Frameworks Southwestern Medical Center Ching-Hwa Kiang Rice University Single Molecule and Single Cell Studies of Biological Systems Bradley J. Holliday The University of Texas at Austin Seeded Growth of Inorganic Materials within Organic Templates Thomas C. Killian Rice University Pump-Probe Spectroscopy of Rydberg-Macromolecule Decay Pathways Lora V. Hooper The University of Texas Engineering Antibacterial Lectins for Specific Targeting of Southwestern Medical Center Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria Nayun Kim The University of Texas Locus-Specific Quantitation of Uracil Associated with Health Science Center at Houston Unscheduled DNA Synthesis Julia W.P. Hsu The University of Texas at Dallas Fe Substitution in Mn-Mullite NO Oxidation Catalysts: From Synthesis to DFT Modelings Natasha Kirienko Rice University Structural Determinants of Pyoverdine Chemical Function

Huey W. Huang Rice University Molecular Mechanism of Membrane-Acting Antibiotic Steven A. Kliewer The University of Texas Mechanisms Underlying the Secretory Actions of FGF21 in Daptomycin Southwestern Medical Center Exocrine Pancreas

Randall G. Hulet Rice University Universal Triatomic Molecules by Association of Ultracold Che Ming Ko Texas A&M University Theoretical Studies of Heavy Ion Collisions Atoms

22 23

Welch AR 2017–v7A.indd 22-23 6/19/18 8:33 AM PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR INSTITUTION TITLE OF RESEARCH PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR INSTITUTION TITLE OF RESEARCH

Jason H. Hafner Rice University Surface Enhanced Spectroscopy for Biomembrane Structure Brent L. Iverson The University of Texas at Austin A New Family of Reporting Molecules

Randall G. Hulet Rice University Universal Triatomic Molecules by Association of Ultracold Che Ming Ko Texas A&M University Theoretical Studies of Heavy Ion Collisions Atoms

22 23

Welch AR 2017–v7A.indd 22-23 6/19/18 8:33 AM PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR INSTITUTION TITLE OF RESEARCH PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR INSTITUTION TITLE OF RESEARCH

Jennifer J. Kohler The University of Texas Discovering the Glycoconjugate Receptors of Pertussis Toxin Qinghua Liu The University of Texas Chemosensing Mechanism of Thiazoline Odor-Evoked Innate Southwestern Medical Center Southwestern Medical Center Fear

Anatoly B. Kolomeisky Rice University Unraveling the Chemical Mechanisms of Selectivity in Wenshe Liu Texas A&M University Novel Chemical Biology Tools for Investigating the Protein Channel-Facilitated Molecular Transport Ubiquitination System

Junichiro Kono Rice University Optical, Infrared and Terahertz Spectroscopy of Low- Xin Liu The University of Texas Structural Basis and Chemical Modulation of Gene Silencing Dimensional Materials Southwestern Medical Center by Polycomb Repressive Complex 2

Brian A. Korgel The University of Texas at Austin Nanocrystal Assemblies Yi Liu The University of Texas Biochemical Analysis of an RNA Interface Pathway Southwestern Medical Center Donald J. Kouri University of Houston Supersymmetric Quantum Mechanics: Accurate Excited State Energies and Wave Functions Steve W. Lockless Texas A&M University Membrane Protein Regulation Through the Lipid Bilayer

László Kürti Rice University New Paradigms in Heterocyclic Chemistry Jun Lou Rice University Developing Atomic Layer Enabled Tunable and Flexible Photodevices Jaan Laane Texas A&M University Molecular Structures and Vibrational Potential Energy Surfaces in Ground and Excited Electronic States Carl J. Lovely The University of Texas at Arlington Total Synthesis of Spirocyclic Marine Sponge-Derived Alkaloids

Keji Lai The University of Texas at Austin Noninvasive Electrical Mapping of Chemical Processes in 2D Vassiliy Lubchenko University of Houston Bonding and Structural Degeneracy in Incommensurate Phases Materials and Quasicrystals

David L. Lambert The University of Texas at Austin The Chemical Composition of Stars Robert R. Lucchese Texas A&M University Nuclear Motion Probed by Molecular-Frame Photoionization

Alan M. Lambowitz The University of Texas at Austin Bacterial Reverse Transcriptases: Characterization and Lawrence Lum The University of Texas Functional Interrogation of Extracellular Protein Lipidation Biotechnological Applications Southwestern Medical Center

Christy F. Landes Rice University Identifying Hidden Conformations in Multi-State Bio-Molecules Lloyd L. Lumata The University of Texas at Dallas Tracking Amino Acid Metabolism in Cancer in Real-Time Using Hyperpolarized 13C Magnetic Resonance Oleg V. Larionov The University of Texas at San Antonio New Catalytic Strategies for the Synthesis of Complex Heterocycles Weibo Luo The University of Texas Regulation of Hypoxia-Inducible Factor 1 Transcriptional Southwestern Medical Center Activity by the Histone Modifier Michael Latham Texas Tech University Methyl-Based NMR Investigation of a DNA Double Strand Break Repair Complex Xuelian Luo The University of Texas Chemical Inhibition of the Hippo TEAD-YAP Transcription Southwestern Medical Center Factors for Cancer Therapy Seongmin Lee The University of Texas at Austin Chemical, Biochemical and Structural Studies of Inflammation-Induced DNA Lesions Jodie L. Lutkenhaus Texas A&M University Discovering the Rich Electrochemistry of Nitroxide Radical- Modified Conjugated Polymers T. Randall Lee University of Houston Functionalized Xanthates, Dithiocarboxylates, and Dithiocarbamates for Coating Surfaces and Nanoparticles Nathaniel A. Lynd The University of Texas at Austin Synthesis and Self-Assembly of Cooperatively Crystalline Block Copolymers Bing Li The University of Texas Mechanisms for Histone H3 Lysine-to-Methionine Mediated Southwestern Medical Center Chromatin Mis-Regulation Jianpeng Ma Baylor College of Medicine Exploring the Chemical Forces Stabilizing Human Polycomb Repressive Complex 2 Guigen Li Texas Tech University Group-Assisted Purification (GAP) Chemistry for Asymmetric Synthesis and Catalysis Allan H. MacDonald The University of Texas at Austin Spintronics in Two-Dimensional Materials

Pingwei Li Texas A&M University The Structural Basis of RNA Synthesis by Zika Virus Frederick M. MacDonnell The University of Texas at Arlington Photothermochemical Liquid Hydrocarbon Synthesis from Water and Carbon Dioxide Wei Li Rice University Exotic Collective Phenomena in Nuclear Chemistry at a Trillion Degrees John B. MacMillan The University of Texas Role of Non-Enzymatic Transformations in Natural Product Southwestern Medical Center Biosynthesis Wen-hong Li The University of Texas Fluorescent Probes for Cellular Imaging Southwestern Medical Center Corina Maeder Trinity University Mechanism of a Small Protein at the Heart of Spliceosome Activation Xiaoqin (Elaine) Li The University of Texas at Austin Bio-Compatible Quantum Sensors Dmitrii E. Makarov The University of Texas at Austin Theory and Simulations of Single-Molecule Dynamics Paul A. Lindahl Texas A&M University Characterization of Low-Molecular-Mass Metal Complexes in Mitochondria and Blood David J. Mangelsdorf The University of Texas Ligand Binding Properties of Nematode Orphan Nuclear Southwestern Medical Center Receptors Stephan Link Rice University Observing Chemistry via Surface Plasmons Arumugam Manthiram The University of Texas at Austin Synthesis and Properties of Transition Metal Oxides with Jen Liou The University of Texas Novel Imaging Probes for Investigating ER Membrane Contact Unusual Valence States Southwestern Medical Center Sites Edward M. Marcotte The University of Texas at Austin A Mass Spectrometry-Based Reference Map of Core Hung-wen Liu The University of Texas at Austin Mechanistic Studies of Novel Enzymes Eukaryotic Protein Complexes

Jun Liu The University of Texas High-Resolution Structure Determination of Molecular Caleb D. Martin Baylor University Heavy Element-Boron Systems: From Unusual Bonding to Health Science Center at Houston Machines in situ by Cryo Electron Tomography New Synthetic Tools

24 25

Welch AR 2017–v7A.indd 24-25 6/19/18 8:33 AM PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR INSTITUTION TITLE OF RESEARCH PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR INSTITUTION TITLE OF RESEARCH

David L. Lambert The University of Texas at Austin The Chemical Composition of Stars Robert R. Lucchese Texas A&M University Nuclear Motion Probed by Molecular-Frame Photoionization

24 25

Welch AR 2017–v7A.indd 24-25 6/19/18 8:33 AM PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR INSTITUTION TITLE OF RESEARCH PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR INSTITUTION TITLE OF RESEARCH

Stephen F. Martin The University of Texas at Austin Synthesis of Biologically Relevant Molecules Kathryn A. O’Donnell The University of Texas Dissecting Novel Mechanisms of Lung Cancer Pathogenesis Southwestern Medical Center Elisabeth D. Martinez The University of Texas Small Molecule Inhibitors Selectively Targeting Malaria Southwestern Medical Center Epigenetic Enzymes John S. Olson Rice University Chemical Mechanisms of Ligand Binding to Heme Proteins

Andreas Matouschek The University of Texas at Austin Structure and Function of a Nano-Scale Biological Machine Mohammad A. Omary University of North Texas Dawn Rise Upon New Chemical Bonds Amidst Ground- and Excited-State Bonding Assortments in Luminescent Seiichi P.T. Matsuda Rice University Terpene Biosynthesis Molecules/Excitons/Polarons

Jeremy A. May University of Houston The Total Synthesis of Bioactive Natural Products via Novel José Onuchic Rice University Integrating Structural and Co-Evolutionary Genomic Data to Methods and Strategies Determine the Energy Landscape of Biomolecular Complexes

Jennifer A. Maynard The University of Texas at Austin Control of Protein Folding Quality: Portable Sequence Kim Orth The University of Texas Using Chemistry and Genetics with VopQ to Decipher Determinants of Antibody Stability Southwestern Medical Center Vacuolar Fusion Events

Kevin McBride The University of Texas Small Molecule Inhibitors of Epigenetic Effector Proteins Oleg V. Ozerov Texas A&M University Ligand Design Approaches to Coupling Catalysis with Group M. D. Anderson Cancer Center 9 Metal Complexes

Julian Meeks The University of Texas Identifying New Mammalian Bile Acid Receptors Jeremy C. Palmer University of Houston Metastable Liquid-Liquid Phase Transitions in Molecular Southwestern Medical Center Models of Tetrahedral Fluids

Gabriele Meloni The University of Texas at Dallas Transition Metal Selectivity and Translocation in Keith H. Pannell The University of Texas at El Paso SILOXYMETHYLAMINES: Masked Amination Reagents for Transmembrane Ion Pumps New Metal Ligands

Ognjen Š. Miljanic ´ University of Houston Robust Porosity in Molecular Crystals Matteo Pasquali Rice University Physical Chemistry of Nanorods and Nanoplates

Delia J. Milliron The University of Texas at Austin Plasmonic Transparent Conducting Oxide Nanocrystals: Margaret A. Phillips The University of Texas Purine Salvage Pathways as Potential Drug Targets in Dopant Chemistry and Heterogeneity Southwestern Medical Center Trypanosomatid Parasites

Hamid Mirzaei The University of Texas Development of a Fully Automated 3D Separation Platform for Lionel W. Poirier Texas Tech University New Methodologies for Accurate Quantum Calculations of the Southwestern Medical Center Deep Proteome Fractionation: Application in Novel Drug Dynamics of Atomic Nuclei Discovery Towards Detection of Low Abundance Targets of Small Molecules David C. Powers Texas A&M University PCET-Triggered Metal-Ligand Cooperation for Aerobic Oxidation Catalysis Saikat Mukhopadhyay The University of Texas Biochemical Characterization of Factors Regulating Southwestern Medical Center Subcellular Trafficking and Function of Membrane B. V. Venkataram Prasad Baylor College of Medicine X-ray Crystallographic Studies on Viruses and Viral Proteins Adenylyl/Guanylyl Cyclases Han Pu Rice University Synthetic P-Wave Interaction in Ultracold Atoms Charles B. Mullins The University of Texas at Austin Nano-Structured Materials for Chemistry Emily L. Que The University of Texas at Austin Exploring the Use of Cu(II) in 19F Magnetic Resonance Siegfried Musser Texas A&M University Signal Peptide Interactions During Transport by the Bacterial Contrast Agents for Imaging Biological Redox Health Science Center Tat Machinery Arun Radhakrishnan The University of Texas Molecular Mechanisms of Cholesterol Sensors in Human Cells Yunsun Nam The University of Texas Structure and Function of microRNA Precursors Southwestern Medical Center Southwestern Medical Center Mark G. Raizen The University of Texas at Austin Imaging of Surface Chemistry with Neutral Atoms Douglas Natelson Rice University Novel Single- and Few-Molecule Vibrational Spectroscopies Rama Ranganathan The University of Texas Evolutionary Dynamics and the Design of Natural Proteins Donald G. Naugle Texas A&M University The Influence of Reduced Dimensionality, Disorder, and Southwestern Medical Center Interfaces on the Properties of Solids Frank M. Raushel Texas A&M University Elucidation of Enzyme Reaction Mechanisms Andriy Nevidomskyy Rice University Multipolar Spin Orders in Correlated Electron Materials Joseph M. Ready The University of Texas New Directions in Asymmetric Synthesis Kyriacos C. Nicolaou Rice University Total Synthesis of Bioactive Natural and Designed Molecules Southwestern Medical Center

Deepak Nijhawan The University of Texas Expanding the Druggable Genome Michael Reese The University of Texas Unraveling the Non-Canonical Activation Mechanism of Southwestern Medical Center Southwestern Medical Center Toxoplasma Kinases

Michael Nippe Texas A&M University Synthetic Strategies for the Preparation of Supramolecular and Linda E. Reichl The University of Texas at Austin Relaxation Processes in Ultracold Atomic Mixtures and Covalent Cage Structures Containing Carborane Moieties Dissociated Molecules

Qian Niu The University of Texas at Austin Properties and Their Inter-Couplings in 2D Materials Pengyu Ren The University of Texas at Austin Multiscale Modeling of RNA 3D Structure

Peter J.A. Nordlander Rice University Theoretical Investigations of Chemical Properties of Peter M. Rentzepis Texas A&M University Time and Space Resolved Chemical and Biological Reaction Nanostructures Intermediates

Michael V. Norgard The University of Texas Structure and Function of a Novel Bacterial Regulator Luke M. Rice The University of Texas Structure and Biochemistry of a Microtubule Regulatory Protein Southwestern Medical Center Southwestern Medical Center

Simon W. North Texas A&M University Fundamental Imaging Studies of Chemical Reactivity Michael G. Richmond University of North Texas Synthesis and Reactivity Studies of Polynuclear Clusters

26 27

Welch AR 2017–v7A.indd 26-27 6/19/18 8:33 AM PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR INSTITUTION TITLE OF RESEARCH PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR INSTITUTION TITLE OF RESEARCH

Ognjen Š. Miljanic ´ University of Houston Robust Porosity in Molecular Crystals Matteo Pasquali Rice University Physical Chemistry of Nanorods and Nanoplates

Qian Niu The University of Texas at Austin Properties and Their Inter-Couplings in 2D Materials Pengyu Ren The University of Texas at Austin Multiscale Modeling of RNA 3D Structure

Simon W. North Texas A&M University Fundamental Imaging Studies of Chemical Reactivity Michael G. Richmond University of North Texas Synthesis and Reactivity Studies of Polynuclear Clusters

26 27

Welch AR 2017–v7A.indd 26-27 6/19/18 8:33 AM PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR INSTITUTION TITLE OF RESEARCH PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR INSTITUTION TITLE OF RESEARCH

Jeffrey D. Rimer University of Houston Physicochemical Factors Governing Protein Inhibition of Qimiao Si Rice University Theoretical Studies of Electronic Dynamics in Carbon-Based Calcium Oxalate Monohydrate Crystallization and Related Low Dimensional Structures

Jose Rizo-Rey The University of Texas NMR Methods to Study Membrane Proteins in Lipid Bilayers Daniel J. Siegwart The University of Texas Design and Synthesis of Activatable pH-Responsive Water Southwestern Medical Center Southwestern Medical Center Soluble Dyes for Biomedical Imaging

Sean T. Roberts The University of Texas at Austin Mapping Singlet Exciton Fission and Energy Transport Alexei V. Sokolov Texas A&M University Ultrafast Coherent Molecular Spectroscopy with Spatially and Pathways in Perylene Diimide Thin Films and Crystals with Temporally Shaped Electromagnetic Fields Femtosecond Time-Resolved Spectroscopy Dong Hee Son Texas A&M University Hot Electrons Generated from Upconversion in Doped Grigory Rogachev Texas A&M University The Origin of Chemical Elements in the Universe Quantum Dots

Daniel Romo Baylor University Novel Strategies for β-Lactone Synthesis and Annulation to Zhou Songyang Baylor College of Medicine Biochemical Studies of Pathways and Compounds that Impact Basic Cell Biology Modulate Telomere Length

Michael J. Rose The University of Texas at Austin Earth Abundant Metal Catalysts for Energy-Related Chemical John F. Stanton The University of Texas at Austin Studies in Quantum Chemistry Transformations Mihaela C. Stefan The University of Texas at Dallas Semiconducting Block Copolymers Capable of Actuated Michael K. Rosen The University of Texas 2D Phase Separated Protein Polymers: Interactions with Actin Changes of Opto-Electronic Properties Southwestern Medical Center Filaments Wu Pei Su University of Houston Direct Phasing in Macromolecular Crystallography Daniel M. Rosenbaum The University of Texas Capturing the Active Conformations of CNS GPCRs with Southwestern Medical Center Nanobodies Jeffrey J. Tabor Rice University Next-Generation Antibiotics: High Throughput Discovery of Inhibitors of Pathogenic Bacterial Two-Component Systems Joseph H. Ross, Jr. Texas A&M University Magnetic, Electronic and Dynamical Behavior of New Semiconducting Materials Vincent S. Tagliabracci The University of Texas Novel Bacterial Spore Coat Protein Kinases Southwestern Medical Center Peter Rossky Rice University Understanding Conjugated Polymer Aggregation and Optoelectronic Properties via Multiscale Simulation Uttam K. Tambar The University of Texas Stereoselective Transformations of Dienes Southwestern Medical Center Rick Russell The University of Texas at Austin Investigation of RNA Misfolding from Altered Topology Yizhi Jane Tao Rice University Structural and Functional Studies of Viral Polymerases Sandra L. Schmid The University of Texas Dissecting Dynamin Isoform-Specific Regulation of Clathrin Southwestern Medical Center Mediated Endocytosis David Taylor The University of Texas at Austin Chemical Insights into Substrate Cleavage by CRISPR-Cascade

Hans A. Schuessler Texas A&M University Optical Studies of Atomic and Molecular Systems with Thomas S. Teets University of Houston Fine Tuning of Molecular Catalysts and Photosensitizers via Femtosecond, XUV and IR Laser Radiation Synthetic Allostery

Marlan O. Scully Texas A&M University Experimental and Theoretical Research into Quantum Jonathan R. Terman The University of Texas Chemistry and Enzymology of MICAL Family Oxidoreductases Chemistry and Quantum Optics Southwestern Medical Center

Jonathan T. Sczepanski Texas A&M University Development of Cross-Chiral Nucleic Acid Biosensors for Isabell Thomann Rice University Managing Photons and Charge Carriers for Photocatalysis Detection of RNA Structure Randolph P. Thummel University of Houston Cyclotetrapyridines and Related 6-5 Chelators Joachim Seemann The University of Texas Biochemical and Structural Analysis of Golgi-Based Spindle Southwestern Medical Center Assembly Activities Chin Sen Ting University of Houston Superconductivity in Fe-Pnictides and Other Electron- Correlated Materials Laura Segatori Rice University Synthesis and Characterization of Bio-Inspired Nanoparticles with Autophagy-Modulating Properties Frank K. Tittel Rice University Application of Mid-Infrared Quantum and Interband Cascade Lasers to High Precision Trace Gas Monitoring Philip Serwer The University of Texas Structural Chemistry of Viruses Health Science Center at San Antonio Zachary J. Tonzetich The University of Texas at San Antonio Earth-Abundant Transition Metal Catalysts Supported by Pincer Ligands Libo Shan Texas A&M University Biochemical and Regulatory Constraints of Immune Sensors Thomas M. Truskett The University of Texas at Austin Liquids Near Interfaces: Single-Molecule and Collective Dynamics Bryan F. Shaw Baylor University The Dark Side of “Wild Type” Cu, Zn SOD1 in Motor Neuron Disease: Metal Snatcher or Prion Template? Francis T.F. Tsai Baylor College of Medicine Structural and Mechanistic Studies of ATP-Driven Protein Machines Jason B. Shear The University of Texas at Austin Development of Micro-3D-Printed Optical Fiber Probes for Remote Characterization of Complex Bio-Environments Benjamin P. Tu The University of Texas Selective Regulation of Metabolism by a Conserved Inhibitor Southwestern Medical Center of TORC1 Matthew Sheldon Texas A&M University Hot Carrier Up-Conversion Luminescence in Nanocrystal Heterostructures Adam R. Urbach Trinity University Multivalent Cucurbit[n]urils for High-Affinity Reversible Binding

A. Dean Sherry The University of Texas at Dallas Shift Reagents for MRI Detection of Specific Metabolites Kosaku Uyeda The University of Texas The Biochemical Mechanism of the Glucose Sensing and Southwestern Medical Center Regulation of ChREBP Xiaobing Shi The University of Texas Structure and Functions of a Novel Histone Acetylation Reader M. D. Anderson Cancer Center Rafael Verduzco Rice University Charge Separation in Well-Defined Donor-Acceptor Block Copolymer Interfaces Chih-Kang Shih The University of Texas at Austin Tailoring Electronic and Excitonic Structures of 2D Materials

28 29

Welch AR 2017–v7A.indd 28-29 6/19/18 8:33 AM PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR INSTITUTION TITLE OF RESEARCH PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR INSTITUTION TITLE OF RESEARCH

28 29

Welch AR 2017–v7A.indd 28-29 6/19/18 8:33 AM PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR INSTITUTION TITLE OF RESEARCH PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR INSTITUTION TITLE OF RESEARCH

Eric J. Wagner The University of Texas Cryo-EM Analysis of the Integrator Complex Jin Ye The University of Texas Biochemical Characterization of the Fatty Acid-UAS Domain Medical Branch Southwestern Medical Center Interaction

Yihong Wan The University of Texas Biochemical Characterization of How Maternal Milk Impacts Danny L. Yeager Texas A&M University Some Accurate New Complex Scaled Multiconfigurational Southwestern Medical Center Offspring Epigenome and Metabolism Methods for Electron-Atom/Molecule Scattering Resonances

Meng Carla Wang Baylor College of Medicine Chemical Imaging of Glutathione Spatiotemporal Dynamics Hsin-Chih Yeh The University of Texas at Austin NanoCluster Beacons for Highly Specific DNA Methylation During Aging Detection

Qinghua Wang Baylor College of Medicine Chemical Mechanisms of Muscle Contraction and Regulation Sherry J. Yennello Texas A&M University Investigating the Equation-of-State for a Two-Component Nuclear System Yingfei Wang The University of Texas Biochemical Characterization of PAAN Southwestern Medical Center Hye-Jeong Yeo University of Houston Structural Studies of Novel Lipoproteins

Yuhong Wang University of Houston The Kinetics and Conformational Changes During the Peptidyl Guihua Yu The University of Texas at Austin Probing the Charge Storage Mechanisms of Molecularly- Transferase Reaction in Single Ribosomes Assembled Two-Dimensional Inorganic Solids

Zhigao Wang The University of Texas Regulation of Necroptosis by Casein Kinase 1δε Hongtao Yu The University of Texas Biochemical and Structural Analysis of Cohesion and Its Southwestern Medical Center Southwestern Medical Center Regulators

Coran Watanabe Texas A&M University Streptomyces sahachiroi: A Rich Treasure Trove of Unique Yonghao Yu The University of Texas Targeting PARP1 for the Treatment of Small Cell Lung Cancer Biosynthetic Reactions Southwestern Medical Center

Lauren J. Webb The University of Texas at Austin Small Molecule Interactions with Protein Assemblies: Anvar A. Zakhidov The University of Texas at Dallas Photochemistry of Nanoimprinted Hybrid Perovskites for “Drugging” the Protein-Protein Interface Photovoltaics

R. Bruce Weisman Rice University Optical Studies of Nanocarbons Chengcheng Zhang The University of Texas Identification of Potential Therapeutic Compounds for Southwestern Medical Center Hematopoietic Regeneration Kenneth D. Westover The University of Texas Development of Covalent TAK1 Inhibitors Southwestern Medical Center Chun-Li Zhang The University of Texas Chemical Regulation of Human Motor Neurons Southwestern Medical Center Steven E. Wheeler Texas A&M University Harnessing the Power of Non-Covalent Interactions for Organocatalysis David Yu Zhang Rice University Native Characterization of DNA and RNA Structure Thermodynamics Robert L. Whetten The University of Texas at San Antonio Fundamental Chemical Research on Larger Molecular Noble- Metal Clusters Junjie Zhang Texas A&M University Functions of Unique Structures in Mycobacterium Tuberculosis Translation Christian P. Whitman The University of Texas at Austin Structure Function Relationships in Enzymes Renyi Zhang Texas A&M University Chemical Kinetics and Mechanism of Hydrocarbon Oxidation Kenton H. Whitmire Rice University The Chemistry of Nanomolecules Reactions

C. Grant Willson The University of Texas at Austin Programmed Self-Assembly of Nanostructures Xuewu Zhang The University of Texas Structural and Functional Analyses of the BCCIPβ/RPL23 Southwestern Medical Center Complex Lon J. Wilson Rice University Carbon Nanotube Capsules for Advanced Theranostic Applications Yan Jessie Zhang The University of Texas at Austin Visualization of the Incorporation of Molecular Oxygen in Endoperoxide Bond Formation Using Time-Resolved X-ray Sebastian E. Winter The University of Texas Metabolism of Salmonella Typhimurium in the Inflamed Gut Crystallography Southwestern Medical Center John C.-G. Zhao The University of Texas at San Antonio Expeditious Modification of Organocatalyst Structures for Jiang Wu The University of Texas Tumor Suppression Function of Brg1/SMARCA4 is Disrupted Improved Stereoselectivities Southwestern Medical Center by DCLK1-Mediated Phosphorylation Alexey M. Zheltikov Texas A&M University Optical Detection and Control of Ultrafast Electron Dynamics Blerta Xhemalce The University of Texas at Austin Regulation of Gene Expression Through Chemical and Small-Scale Temperature Variations in Chemical Systems Modifications of RNA Qing Zhong The University of Texas Identification of Autophagy-Specific Factors for Chong Xie The University of Texas at Austin Probing the In Vivo Chemistry in the Behaving Brain Southwestern Medical Center Autophagosome-Lysosome Fusion

Jian Xu The University of Texas In Situ Analysis of the Structure-Function of Transcriptional Yubin Zhou Texas A&M University Optical Rewiring of Epigenetic Landscapes to Reprogram Cell Southwestern Medical Center Enhancers Health Science Center Fate

Boris I. Yakobson Rice University Science of Nearly-1D Materials: From Nanotubes to Nanowires and Grain Boundaries

Nan Yan The University of Texas A Monogenic Immune Disorder Associated with Southwestern Medical Center Oligosaccharyltransferase Dysregulation

Ding-Shyue Yang University of Houston Ultrafast Electron Crystallography and Femtosecond Spectroscopy of Structural Transformation Dynamics in Transition Metal Systems

30 31

Welch AR 2017–v7A.indd 30-31 6/19/18 8:33 AM PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR INSTITUTION TITLE OF RESEARCH PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR INSTITUTION TITLE OF RESEARCH

Boris I. Yakobson Rice University Science of Nearly-1D Materials: From Nanotubes to Nanowires and Grain Boundaries

Nan Yan The University of Texas A Monogenic Immune Disorder Associated with Southwestern Medical Center Oligosaccharyltransferase Dysregulation

Ding-Shyue Yang University of Houston Ultrafast Electron Crystallography and Femtosecond Spectroscopy of Structural Transformation Dynamics in Transition Metal Systems

30 31

Welch AR 2017–v7A.indd 30-31 6/19/18 8:33 AM DEPARTMENTAL RESEARCH GRANTS ENDOWED CHAIRS

INSTITUTION CHAIRHOLDER AND CHAIR NAME

Abilene Christian University Tarleton State University Baylor College of Medicine David D. Moore, The R. P. Doherty, Jr.-Welch Chair in Science Angelo State University Texas A&M University-Commerce Baylor College of Medicine Theodore G. Wensel, Welch Chair in Chemistry Austin College Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi Baylor College of Medicine Thomas Westbrook, Welch Chair in Chemistry Hardin-Simmons University Texas A&M University-Kingsville Baylor University John L. Wood, Welch Chair in Chemistry Houston Baptist University Texas Lutheran University Rice University Andrew R. Barron, The Charles W. Duncan, Jr.-Welch Chair in Chemistry Huston-Tillotson University Texas Wesleyan University Rice University Gustavo E. Scuseria, Welch Chair in Chemistry Jarvis Christian College Texas Woman’s University Rice University Peter Wolynes, The D. R. Bullard-Welch Chair in Science Lamar University Trinity University Texas A&M University Tadhg P. Begley, Welch Chair in Chemistry LeTourneau University University of Dallas Texas A&M University James C. Sacchettini, The Roger J. Wolfe-Welch Chair in Science Lubbock Christian University University of Houston-Clear Lake Texas A&M University Karen L. Wooley, The W. T. Doherty-Welch Chair in Chemistry Texas A&M University Hongcai Joe Zhou, Welch Chair in Chemistry McMurry University University of Houston-Downtown Texas A&M University Health Science Center Vytas A. Bankaitis, The E. L. Wehner-Welch Chair in Chemistry Midwestern State University University of Mary Hardin-Baylor Texas A&M University Health Science Center Thomas A. Kent, Welch Chair in Chemistry Our Lady of the Lake University University of St. Thomas Texas A&M University Health Science Center Roderic I. Pettigrew, Welch Chair in Chemistry Prairie View A&M University The University of Texas at Tyler Texas Christian University Eric E. Simanek, Welch Chair in Chemistry St. Edward’s University The University of Texas of the Permian Basin Texas Tech University William L. Hase, Welch Chair in Chemistry St. Mary’s University The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center Vadivel Ganapathy, Welch Chair in Biochemistry Sam Houston State University University of the Incarnate Word University of Houston Olafs Daugulis, Welch Chair in Chemistry Schreiner University Wayland Baptist University University of Houston Jan-Åke Gustafsson, Welch Chair in Chemistry Southwestern University West Texas A&M University University of Houston Allan J. Jacobson, Welch Chair in Science Stephen F. Austin State University University of North Texas Weston Thatcher Borden, Welch Chair in Chemistry University of North Texas Health Science Center Laszlo Prokai, Welch Chair in Biochemistry The University of Texas at Arlington Daniel W. Armstrong, Welch Distinguished University Chair in Chemistry The University of Texas at Austin Eric V. Anslyn, Welch Regents Chair in Chemistry The University of Texas at Austin Allen J. Bard, The Norman Hackerman-Welch Regents Chair in Chemistry The University of Texas at Austin Richard M. Crooks, Welch Chair in Chemistry (Materials Chemistry) The University of Texas at Austin Michael J. Krische, Welch Chair in Science The University of Texas at Austin Jonathan L. Sessler, The R. P. Doherty, Jr.-Welch Regents Chair in Chemistry The University of Texas at Austin Dave Thirumalai, The Marvin K. Collie-Welch Regents Chair in Chemistry The University of Texas at Austin Steven Weinberg, The Jack S. Josey-Welch Chair in Science The University of Texas at Austin* Welch Chair in Chemistry The University of Texas at Austin* The Richard J.V. Johnson-Welch Regents Chair in Chemistry The University of Texas at Dallas Ray H. Baughman, Welch Chair in Chemistry The University of Texas at Dallas* Welch Chair in Chemistry The University of Texas at El Paso Luis Echegoyen, Welch Chair in Chemistry The University of Texas at San Antonio Kirk S. Schanze, Welch Distinguished University Chair in Chemistry The University of Texas at San Antonio* Welch Chair in Chemistry The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston Zhiqiang An, Welch Chair in Chemistry The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston John L. Spudich, Welch Chair in Chemistry The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio Charles P. France, Welch Distinguished University Chair in Chemistry The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio* Welch Distinguished University Chair in Chemistry The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center Andrew Futreal, Welch Chair in Chemistry The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center John A. Tainer, Welch Chair in Chemistry The University of Texas Medical Branch James C. Lee, Welch Chair in Chemistry The University of Texas Medical Branch B. Montgomery Pettitt, Welch Chair in Chemistry The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center J. Russell Falck, Welch Chair in Chemistry The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center Eric N. Olson, Welch Chair in Science

*Chair not filled

32 33

Welch AR 2017–v7A.indd 32-33 6/19/18 8:33 AM DEPARTMENTAL RESEARCH GRANTS ENDOWED CHAIRS

INSTITUTION CHAIRHOLDER AND CHAIR NAME

*Chair not filled

32 33

Welch AR 2017–v7A.indd 32-33 6/19/18 8:33 AM STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL POSITION AS OF AUGUST 31, STATEMENTS OF ACTIVITIES AS OF AUGUST 31, 2017 AND 2016 2017 AND 2016

2017 2016 2017 2016 ASSETS REVENUES: CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS ...... $ 5,219,312 $ 3,148,546 Interest ...... $ 1,112,660 $ 1,350,877 Dividends ...... 3,449,081 3,696,628 INVESTMENTS ...... 680,296,988 632,101,147 Oil and gas royalties and other ...... 1,343,632 1,128,888

RECEIVABLES: Total revenues ...... 5,905,373 6,176,393 Investment transactions ...... 477,157 462,295 Interest and dividends ...... 320,284 399,964 EXPENSES: Other ...... 297,912 380,176 Investment advisory and custodial fees ...... 3,541,561 3,481,161 General and administrative ...... 3,372,653 3,300,682 Total receivables...... 1,095,353 1,242,435 Federal excise tax provision on net investment income ...... 85,287 82,672 Property and production taxes ...... 122,191 105,471 OTHER ASSETS ...... 994,220 765,459 Advisory board fees and expenses ...... 510,000 555,833

TOTAL ...... $ 687,605,873 $ 637,257,587 Total expenses ...... 7,631,692 7,525,819

LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS GRANTS APPROVED - Net ...... (28,333,693) (30,385,590 )

NET REALIZED GAINS ON SALES OF LIABILITIES: INVESTMENTS AND OTHER ASSETS ...... 29,526,776 38,402,766 Unpaid grants ...... $ 20,046,750 $ 20,477,500 Deferred federal excise tax payable ...... 2,196,044 1,077,887 UNREALIZED APPRECIATION (DEPRECIATION) OF INVESTMENTS ...... 51,270,061 (10,310,449 ) Accounts payable and other ...... 1,312,637 970,608 Investment transactions payable ...... - 133,002 CHANGE IN PENSION ...... 20,434 (503,771 )

FEDERAL EXCISE TAX ON REALIZED CAPITAL GAINS ...... (187,250 ) (308,093 ) Total liabilities ...... 23,555,431 22,658,997

DEFERRED FEDERAL EXCISE TAX PROVISION ON UNREALIZED CAPITAL GAINS ...... (1,118,157 ) 60,374 NET ASSETS...... 664,050,442 614,598,590 CHANGE IN NET ASSETS ...... 49,451,852 (4,394,189 ) TOTAL ...... $ 687,605,873 $ 637,257,587 NET ASSETS, beginning of year ...... 614,598,590 618,992,779

NET ASSETS, end of year...... $ 664,050,442 $ 614,598,590

For the Foundation’s complete audited financial statements, please visit www.welch1.org.

34 35

Welch AR 2017–v7A.indd 34-35 6/19/18 8:33 AM STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL POSITION AS OF AUGUST 31, STATEMENTS OF ACTIVITIES AS OF AUGUST 31, 2017 AND 2016 2017 AND 2016

TOTAL ...... $ 687,605,873 $ 637,257,587 Total expenses ...... 7,631,692 7,525,819

LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS GRANTS APPROVED - Net ...... (28,333,693) (30,385,590 )

FEDERAL EXCISE TAX ON REALIZED CAPITAL GAINS ...... (187,250 ) (308,093 ) Total liabilities ...... 23,555,431 22,658,997

NET ASSETS, end of year...... $ 664,050,442 $ 614,598,590

For the Foundation’s complete audited financial statements, please visit www.welch1.org.

34 35

Welch AR 2017–v7A.indd 34-35 6/19/18 8:33 AM 36

Welch AR 2017–v7A.indd 36 6/19/18 8:33 AM 2017 ANNUAL REPORT SUPPLEMENT

The Supplement to the 2017 Welch Foundation Annual Report is available online at www.welch1.org and includes: 61st Conference on Chemical Research Program Welch Conference on Chemical Research 1957-2017 Welch Award Recipients 1972-2017 Hackerman Award Recipients 2002-2017 Principal Investigators Listed Alphabetically Abstracts of Current Investigations Publications by Principal Investigators Reported During 2016-2017

Welch AR2017 2017–v7A.indd Cover.indd 2-3 36 6/19/18 8:33 AM 6/18/18 2:33 PM 5555 San Felipe Suite 1900 Houston, Texas 77056-2730 713.961.9884 www.welch1.org

Welch 2017 Cover.indd 4 6/18/18 2:33 PM