Augustus Way Fountain III

Augustus Way Fountain III is a Senior Lecturer and Professional Track Faculty member in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at the University of South Carolina, affiliated with the McCausland College of Arts and Sciences. He holds roles as the Majors Freshman Laboratory Coordinator, Instrumental Laboratory Coordinator, and Forensics Minor Coordinator. His academic journey includes a Ph.D. in Chemistry from Florida State University (1997), an M.S. in National Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College (2003), and a B.S. in Chemistry from Stetson University (1985).

His research focuses on analytical chemistry, particularly vibrational spectroscopy (Raman and infrared), laser spectroscopy, and their applications in explosive detection, forensic analysis, and military technology. He has extensive experience in developing novel methodologies for chemical analysis, including remote sensing technologies. His work spans academic, military, and federal research roles, with contributions to CBRNE (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and Explosive) sensing technologies.

Dr. Fountain has received notable awards, including the 2024 Garnet Apple Award, 2019 NATO SET Panel Excellence Award, and 2014 Fellow SPIE recognition. He has authored or co-authored over 40 peer-reviewed articles and edited multiple conference proceedings. His research has been funded by significant grants from the U.S. Army, Department of Homeland Security, and DARPA, totaling over $50 million in external funding.

He has advised numerous students and postdoctoral associates, contributing to their research in areas like surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy and forensic applications. His teaching spans undergraduate and graduate courses in analytical chemistry, instrumental analysis, and forensic science.