Barbara J. Finlayson-Pitts

Professor Barbara J. Finlayson-Pitts is a faculty member in the Department of Chemistry at the University of California, Irvine (UCI) and serves as the Founder and Co-Director of the AirUCI Institute (Atmospheric Integrated Research at UCI). Her research focuses on atmospheric chemistry, physical chemistry, and analytical chemistry, with an emphasis on understanding the kinetics, mechanisms, and photochemistry of chemical reactions occurring at airborne particle surfaces, which are critical for air quality, climate change, and human health.

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, University of California, Riverside

Her work explores four key systems: halogen gas generation from sea salt particles, nitrogen oxide reactions at aqueous interfaces, organic compound interactions on particles, and the atmospheric fates of neonicotinoids. Experimental approaches include Fourier transform infrared spectrometry (FTIR), differential optical absorption spectrometry (DOAS), and mass spectrometry, alongside unique aerosol chambers for real-time particle studies. Collaborations span UCI's Chemistry and Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering departments, as well as international institutions.

• California 74th Assembly District's Woman of the Year (2021)
• Environment Prize, Royal Society of Chemistry (2019)
• Polanyi Medal, Royal Society of Chemistry (2018)
• Francis P. Garvan–John M. Olin Medal, American Chemical Society (2017)
• ...

Professor Finlayson-Pitts has received numerous accolades, including election to the National Academy of Sciences (2006) and the American Academy of Arts & Sciences (2006). Her lab actively trains students and researchers in atmospheric chemistry, integrating molecular-level studies with ambient air analysis, and has been recognized for excellence in undergraduate and graduate education.