Richard Loomis

Richard Loomis is a Professor of Chemistry at Washington University in St. Louis, School of Arts & Sciences. He holds a PhD from the University of Pennsylvania (2001), a BS from Dickinson College (1996), and completed an NRC Postdoctoral Fellowship at NIST and the University of Colorado (2001-2004).

His research focuses on reaction dynamics at atomic/molecular scales. Key areas include semiconductor nanostructure quantum effects, bimolecular interactions, and coherent control of chemical reactions. Techniques employed include ultrafast lasers, confocal microscopy, and time-resolved spectroscopy. Collaborations with Prof. Buhro’s group investigate semiconductor quantum wires’ optical properties and excitonic dynamics.

Notable achievements include the 2020 ACS Saint Louis Section Award, multiple teaching awards, and NSF-CAREER and Packard Fellowships. His lab integrates Physical Chemistry, Materials Science, and Spectroscopy, with a focus on nanostructure characterization and energy dynamics.

Research highlights include studies on exciton propagation in quantum wires, intermolecular potential energy surfaces, and femtosecond laser control of reaction pathways. The Loomis Group also develops novel optical microscopy tools for single-nanostructure analysis.

• Awards: Over 10 major recognitions including NSF-CAREER (2004) and Packard Fellowship (2001).
• Advising: Mentored numerous graduate/undergraduate students in spectroscopy and nanochemistry.
• Labs: Utilizes advanced facilities for femtosecond lasers, mass spectrometry, and single-molecule microscopy.