Florida State University Honors Eric Anslyn with Inaugural Presidential Lectureship in Chemical Sciences
Florida State University (FSU) launched its Presidential Lectureship in Chemical Sciences on September 23, 2026, honoring renowned chemist Eric Anslyn from the University of Texas at Austin. This initiative aims to recognize outstanding achievement in chemistry and foster connections between FSU faculty, students, and leading scientists.
Key Points
- The lectureship celebrates significant contributions to the field of chemistry and enhances FSU’s reputation.
- Eric Anslyn was chosen for his groundbreaking work in molecular recognition and chemical sensing.
Insights from the Ceremony
FSU President Richard McCullough expressed his desire to bring influential figures to the university, highlighting the importance of connections in academic growth. He praised Anslyn’s achievements in both theoretical and experimental chemistry, emphasizing their long-standing friendship from their postdoctoral days at Columbia University.
Eric Anslyn, who serves as the Welch Regents Chair in Chemistry and a Distinguished Teaching Professor, showcased his research on how chemistry can address everyday problems. His lecture, “The Senses of Taste and Smell: Differential Sensing Concepts and Applications,” included innovative uses of LEGOs and smartphones for detecting nerve agents and identified methods to ascertain the authenticity of wines.
The Award
The Presidential Lectureship in Chemical Sciences Award consists of a commemorative honor and support for future research endeavors. Anslyn reflected on his passion for chemistry, linking it to his childhood experiences of building and creating, which fueled his love for innovation in the scientific field.
FSU President Richard McCullough and Eric Anslyn at the inaugural Presidential Lectureship for Chemical Sciences. (Devin Bittmer/Arts & Sciences)
Eric Anslyn discusses his research during the inaugural lectureship. (Devin Bittmer/Arts & Sciences)
With this new initiative, FSU aims to enhance engagement within the scientific community and elevate the profile of its Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry.
