Susan Olesik

Susan Olesik is a Distinguished University Professor and Dean of the College of Natural and Mathematical Sciences at The Ohio State University. She holds a PhD in analytical mass spectrometry and has been a faculty member since 1986. Her research focuses on advancing separation science, particularly using nanomaterials and enhanced-fluidity liquids for high-efficiency chromatography and mass spectrometry. Olesik leads the Ohio House of Science and Engineering (OHSE), a K-16 outreach initiative, and has received numerous awards for her contributions to analytical chemistry and diversity in STEM.

**Education**:

• A.S., Vincennes University (1975)
• B.A., DePauw University (1977)
• Ph.D., University of Wisconsin-Madison (1982)
• Postdoctoral Fellowships: Indiana University (1982–1984), University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill (1984–1986)

**Research Interests**:

• Nanostructured materials for separation science
• Enhanced-fluidity liquid chromatography (EFLC)
• Ordered carbon materials for chromatography
• Nanofibrous substrates for laser desorption mass spectrometry
• Sustainable analytical techniques

Her work emphasizes developing high-speed, efficient methods applicable to field-based or point-of-care studies. Recent projects include carbon nanofiber-based substrates for mass spectrometry and life cycle analysis of chromatographic methods.

**Awards**:

• 2014 ACS Helen M Free Award for Public Outreach
• 2012 AAAS Fellow
• 2000 AWISCO Woman in Science Award
• NASA Commendation (2000)

**Advising & Grants**: Supervised over 20 graduate students and postdocs, including recent Ph.D. graduates Brian Fitch and Rebekah Gray. Her grants support STEM outreach programs and research in sustainable chromatography.

**Labs & Teams**: Leads the Olesik Research Group, focusing on nanomaterials and chromatographic innovations. Collaborates with industry and academic partners to advance analytical tools for environmental and biomedical applications.