News and Events

A setback in growing light-responsive crystals led UB chemist Jason Benedict and his team to a novel method for mapping molecular arrangements.

The University at Buffalo is hosting a "Broken Plastics Workshop" on May 8, 2025, where students, faculty, and staff can create art from microplastics collected on campus, turning exam stress into creative expression while addressing plastic pollution. Led by local artist and UB alumna Nicole Chochrek, the event combines science and art to raise awareness about environmental issues through hands-on engagement. The workshop is free, but space is limited. Register by May 6th at the link provided in the news article.

In an extended Q&A interview, Spectroscopy Magazine sits down with UB Chemistry alumna Kelsey L. Williams, PhD, who is currently a postdoctoral researcher at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL), working on planetary instrumentation using spectroscopic techniques such as laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) and laser ablation molecular isotopic spectrometry (LAMIS). Link to story: Celebrating National Space Day with Spectroscopy

UB chemist Emanuela Gionfriddo and her team have developed a novel method to detect airborne “forever chemicals” as they evaporate—filling a major gap in PFAS monitoring and offering a sustainable, precise tool that could help shape future environmental regulations.