Emily Pentzer

Emily Pentzer is a Professor in the Department of Chemistry and affiliated faculty in Chemical Engineering and Materials Science & Engineering at Texas A&M University. She serves as Associate Dean for Research in the College of Arts & Sciences and is a Presidential Impact Fellow, recognizing her significant contributions to research and innovation.

Education:

• B.S. in Chemistry, Butler University
• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Northwestern University
• Postdoctoral Research, University of Massachusetts Amherst (2010–2013)

Her research focuses on designing functional organic and polymeric materials using scalable synthesis and advanced manufacturing techniques. Key areas include polymer chemistry, additive manufacturing, energy storage, carbon capture, and thermal energy management. She employs a bottom-up approach to tailor molecular interactions and microstructures for high-performance applications.

The recent publications highlight a strong trend in developing advanced polymer composites using novel fabrication methods such as direct ink writing and emulsion templating, with applications in sustainable technologies and energy systems. Research spans from fundamental molecular design to real-world implementation through interdisciplinary collaboration.

Scientific Awards and Honors:

• Fellow of the Polymer Division of the American Chemical Society (2024)
• Innovation Award, Journal of Polymer Science (2023)
• Blavatnik Award Finalist (2022)
• Texas A&M Presidential Impact Fellow (2021)
• ACS WCC Rising Star Award (2021)
• NSF CAREER Award (2016)

Dr. Pentzer leads an active research group with funding from major agencies, supporting innovation in materials for energy and sustainability. She collaborates widely across chemical engineering, materials science, mechanical engineering, and biomedical fields, enhancing translational impact. While student names are not listed, she mentors graduate and undergraduate researchers in her lab.

The Pentzer Lab operates in the Chemistry Building at Texas A&M, with dedicated lab and office spaces, focusing on scalable, environmentally conscious material design for next-generation applications.