Stephen Chmely

Stephen Chmely is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering at The Pennsylvania State University. His research focuses on developing biobased materials from lignocellulosic biomass, particularly in additive manufacturing applications. He holds a Ph.D. in Chemistry (Vanderbilt University, 2010) and postdoctoral experience at institutions including Vanderbilt University Medical Center and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory.

Education:

• A.S. Chemistry, Volunteer State Community College, 2003
• B.S. Chemistry and Physics, Western Kentucky University, 2006
• Ph.D. Chemistry, Vanderbilt University, 2010

Research Interests: Dr. Chmely specializes in lignin valorization, catalytic transformations of biomass, and 3D printing applications of bio-based polymers. His work bridges chemical synthesis, materials science, and environmental sustainability, with a focus on converting lignocellulosic waste into high-value products like nanomaterials and functional composites.

Recent Work Trends: Publications from 2021–2025 highlight advancements in lignin-derived resins for additive manufacturing, catalytic strategies for biomass depolymerization, and sensor technologies using biomass-derived nanoparticles. His 2024 NSF CAREER Award supports research into molecular-level effects in plant-based nanocomposites for stereolithography.

Awards:

• NSF CAREER Award (2024)

Teaching & Mentoring: Instructs courses such as ABSM 300/301/411 and BRS 501, focusing on biorenewable systems and polymer engineering. His advising emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches to sustainable materials development.

Labs & Collaborations: Maintains an active laboratory (see Lab Site), collaborating with institutions like the National Renewable Energy Lab and Vanderbilt University on catalytic biomass conversion and biobased materials.