Michael S. Elioff

Dr. Michael S. Elioff is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry at Millersville University, part of the College of Science and Technology. He joined the department in August 2012, bringing extensive research and teaching experience in physical chemistry and molecular dynamics.

His educational background includes a B.S. in Mathematics (1991) and an M.S. in Chemistry (1995), both from the University of Texas, followed by a Ph.D. in Chemistry from Boston University in 2001. He completed a postdoctoral fellowship at Sandia National Laboratories (2001–2004) and held two prior tenure-track assistant professor positions before arriving at Millersville.

Dr. Elioff's research centers on atmospheric photophysics, fluorescence dynamics, cold molecule formation, and combustion chemistry. He investigates quantum state-resolved energy transfer, solid-phase heats of formation for propellants and explosives, and the synthesis of III-V semiconductor thin films. His work integrates experimental and computational approaches to probe energy flow in molecular systems.

The 15 most recent publications reflect a strong focus on vibrational energy transfer, collisional quenching, sub-kelvin cooling of molecules, and the development of fluorescent sensors for biological and environmental applications. Keywords span physical chemistry, spectroscopy, analytical chemistry, and materials science, with subfields including molecular dynamics, sensor design, and thermochemistry of energetic materials.

Dr. Elioff has mentored several students who appear as co-authors on his publications, including J. Hu, M. Joshi, and J. Wurtzel. While no specific grants are mentioned, his research program appears to be supported through institutional and possibly federal funding, given the scope and publication venues. He teaches core courses such as Introductory Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, and Molecular Spectroscopy, and advises undergraduate research.

His research group engages in projects related to energetic materials, fluorescent probes, and cold molecular dynamics, often involving hands-on experimentation and computational modeling. The lab supports undergraduate involvement through research and senior seminars.