Michael T. Ruggiero

Michael T. Ruggiero is an Associate Professor of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering at the University of Rochester. He holds dual appointments in the School of Arts & Sciences and Hajim School of Engineering. With a BS from SUNY Geneseo (2008–2012) and a PhD in Chemistry from Syracuse University (2012–2016), he completed an EPSRC Postdoctoral Fellowship at the University of Cambridge (2016–2018).

His research focuses on the structure-dynamics relationship in molecular solids, employing terahertz spectroscopy and quantum simulations to investigate advanced materials like pharmaceuticals, organic semiconductors, and metal-organic frameworks. Key interests include low-frequency vibrational dynamics, crystal engineering, and their impact on material performance.

Notable achievements include the EPSRC Postdoctoral Fellowship (2016–2018) and recognition in the 2022 Emerging Investigators Collection. His lab collaborates across disciplines, addressing topics such as charge transport in organic semiconductors and phase transitions in molecular crystals.

Recent grants include the NSF CAREER Award for phonon engineering in organic electronics. The Ruggiero Lab is actively exploring terahertz applications in geoscience and energy materials, emphasizing interdisciplinary innovation.