Jason Ritchie

Jason Ritchie is an Associate Professor of Chemistry & Biochemistry and the Stefani-Miller Chair for Teaching Excellence at the University of Mississippi, affiliated with the Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry in the College of Liberal Arts. His research and teaching are centered on electrochemistry and materials science, with a strong emphasis on undergraduate research mentorship and active learning pedagogy.

Education:

• B.S. in Inorganic Chemistry, University of California-San Diego (1994)
• Ph.D. in Chemistry, University of Texas at Austin (1998)

Dr. Ritchie completed postdoctoral training in electrochemistry at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. His research interests include polymer electrolyte materials, ion transport mechanisms, and their applications in fuel cells and lithium-ion batteries. He is particularly focused on understanding how molecular structure influences electrochemical properties in ion-conducting polymers.

Although no publications are listed in the provided text, his work broadly aligns with materials chemistry, energy storage, and electrochemical engineering, with potential applications in sustainable energy technologies.

Scientific Awards:

• Stefani-Miller Chair for Teaching Excellence

Dr. Ritchie is a dedicated mentor, having guided over 40 undergraduate researchers in his laboratory. He is a strong advocate for undergraduate research and incorporates POGIL (Process Oriented Guided Inquiry Learning) methods in his teaching of General Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry, and Materials Chemistry. He has also taught in the Sally McDonnell Barksdale Honors College. No specific grants are mentioned, but his sustained research program suggests active funding support.

His research laboratory focuses on synthesizing and characterizing novel electrolyte materials for energy applications, contributing to advancements in both fuel cell and battery technologies.