Steven R. Saunders

Dr. Steven R. Saunders is an Associate Professor and Associate Director for Administration and Undergraduate Research at Washington State University’s Gene and Linda Voiland School of Chemical Engineering and Bioengineering. His research focuses on nanoparticle synthesis, tunable solvents, and catalysis for applications in energy, environment, and food science. He holds a B.S. in Chemical and Petroleum Engineering from the University of Pittsburgh (2006) and a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from Auburn University (2011), followed by postdoctoral work at Georgia Tech (2011-2013).

His research interests include nanoparticle synthesis and processing, switchable surfactants, nuclear fuel reprocessing, and food-relevant mixtures. Using techniques like Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR), his lab explores structure-property relationships to enhance catalyst performance and material functionality.

Dr. Saunders has received notable awards including the NSF CAREER Award (2017) and teaching recognitions such as the Reid Miller Excellence in Teaching Award (2016–2017). His work has been supported by grants from the National Science Foundation and collaborations with institutions like Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL).

His lab’s facilities include advanced equipment such as a Thermogravimetric Analyzer (TGA), UV-Vis Spectrometer, and Gas Chromatograph. Current projects involve improving nanoparticle recovery using CO₂-induced phase separation and developing sinter-resistant supported catalysts. He advises Ph.D. candidates Ellis Hammond-Pereira and Zengran Sun, among others.