Garry “Smitty” Grubbs II

Garry "Smitty" Grubbs II serves as Professor of Chemistry and Interim Vice Provost of Graduate Education at Missouri University of Science and Technology, where he has led research initiatives since joining in 2013. His work focuses on advancing molecular rotational spectroscopy techniques for actinide-containing and chiral molecules.

Dr. Grubbs' academic credentials include:

• Ph.D. in Chemistry from University of North Texas (2011)
• Postdoctoral Fellowship at Wesleyan University (2011-2013)
• B.S. in Chemistry from Texas A&M University (2006)

His research spans molecular spectroscopy, spectroscopic instrumentation development, gas phase chemistry, physical chemistry, chemical physics, and analytical chemistry, resulting in over 60 peer-reviewed publications. He pioneers innovations in microwave rotational techniques to unlock new applications in molecular analysis.

Dr. Grubbs has earned significant recognition including:

• 2019 Flygare Award in Molecular Spectroscopy
• 2019 Texas TRiO Achiever Award
• 2023 Outreach Award from the College of Arts, Sciences, and Education

He actively mentors students through the Grubbs Microwave Spectroscopy Group comprising postdoctoral fellows, graduate, undergraduate, and high school researchers. As Associate Advisor for Missouri S&T's Mars Rover Design Team since 2014, he guides students in developing next-generation rovers for the Mars Society's University Rover Challenge. He also edits the Microwave Spectroscopy Information Letter and organizes the Midwest Microwave Spectroscopy Consortium connecting nine researchers across eight institutions.

His research group operates specialized facilities for molecular spectroscopy and drives collaboration through the Midwest Microwave Spectroscopy Consortium, advancing regional capabilities in rotational spectroscopy while training the next generation of scientists.