Faculty News
Professor of the Year
Ryan Joseph
Dr. Ryan Joseph was named the Department of Chemistry’s 2026 Professor of the Year in recognition of his outstanding commitment to teaching, mentorship, and student success. A proud WSU alumnus, he earned his Ph.D. in Chemistry in 2015 under the supervision of Phil Garner and returned to the department in 2022. Since then, he has made a lasting impact through his engaging teaching style, dedication to student learning, and support of both undergraduate and graduate students. Ryan is known for creating a welcoming and encouraging environment that helps students thrive academically and professionally. When asked what he loves most about WSU, he highlights the students, people, and community that make Fulmer Hall feel like home. His passion for education and mentorship makes him a deserving recipient of this honor.
2026 College of Arts & Sciences Faculty Awards
Outstanding Achievement in International Activities
James Brozik
Dr. James Brozik, Professor of Chemistry, received the 2026 College of Arts and Sciences Outstanding Achievement Award in International Activities in recognition of his distinguished career, global research impact, and dedication to advancing international scientific collaboration.
This award honors faculty who have achieved a longstanding national and international reputation for excellence in research and scholarship while positively influencing students and their disciplines. Throughout his career, Dr. Brozik has demonstrated a commitment to scientific innovation, collaborative research, and the development of future scientists through mentorship and engagement in the global scientific community. His work has strengthened the visibility and reputation of the Department of Chemistry and Washington State University, creating opportunities for international partnerships, research advancement, and student success.
Dr. Brozik’s accomplishments exemplify the excellence, leadership, and worldwide impact recognized by this prestigious award.
Early Career Achievement Award—Tenure Track
Anjali Sharma
Dr. Anjali Sharma, Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry at Washington State University, received the 2026 College of Arts and Sciences Early Career Achievement Award in recognition of her outstanding research, student mentorship, and growing national reputation in translational nanomedicine.
Since joining WSU in 2022, Sharma has built an innovative research program focused on developing targeted nanotherapies for cancer, neurological disorders, and eye diseases. Her interdisciplinary work combines chemistry, biology, engineering, and medicine to address critical healthcare challenges.
The award recognizes assistant professors who have demonstrated exceptional achievements early in their careers. Sharma’s success in securing competitive external funding, including support from the National Institutes of Health, and her commitment to training future scientists exemplify the excellence and impact celebrated by this prestigious honor.
Mid-Career Achievement Award —Tenure Track
Xiaofeng Guo
Dr. Xiaofeng Guo, Associate Professor of Chemistry, received the 2026 College of Arts and Sciences Mid-Career Achievement Award in recognition of his outstanding research accomplishments, impactful student mentorship, and growing national and international reputation in the field of chemistry.
This award honors faculty who have demonstrated exemplary scholarly achievement and made significant contributions to their discipline since earning their Ph.D. degree. Throughout his career, Dr. Guo has established a distinguished record of innovative research, advancing scientific knowledge while fostering opportunities for student engagement in high-impact research. His commitment to mentoring undergraduate and graduate students has helped prepare the next generation of scientists and researchers.
Dr. Guo’s sustained research excellence, scholarly leadership, and influence within the scientific community exemplify the accomplishments recognized by the College of Arts and Sciences Mid-Career Achievement Award.
Samuel H. and Patricia W. Smith Teaching and Learning Grant Recipient
Marina Popova
We’re proud to celebrate Professor Marina Popova on receiving a Samuel H. and Patricia W. Smith Teaching and Learning Grant for the period of May 16, 2026 – May 15, 2027. This achievement reflects her initiative, dedication, and commitment to advancing learning and innovation.
By taking the initiative to develop and submit a thoughtful proposal, Professor Marina Popova exemplifies leadership and a passion for continuous improvement. We look forward to the meaningful impact this grant will support over the coming year.
Promotion
Jeffrey Bell
The Department of Chemistry is pleased to recognize Dr. Jeffrey Bell on his promotion to Associate Professor, effective August 16, 2026. This achievement reflects his outstanding contributions to research, teaching, mentorship, and service since joining Washington State University in 2020. Dr. Bell was also included among WSU’s faculty members who were granted tenure and promoted during the 2025-26 academic review cycle.
Dr. Bell’s research program has rapidly established an international reputation at the intersection of analytical, physical, and materials chemistry. His laboratory develops innovative electrochemical methods to address challenges in sensing, energy storage, interfacial transport, and chemical dynamics. A key area of his work explores the influence of magnetic fields on electrochemical processes, advancing knowledge with applications ranging from batteries and electrocatalysis to chemical sensing technologies.
Since arriving at WSU following post-doctoral research at Harvard University, Dr. Bell has built a highly productive research group that provides students with hands-on experience in electrochemistry, sensor development, additive manufacturing, materials characterization, and magnetoelectrochemistry. His work has earned significant external support, including a prestigious National Science Foundation CAREER Award, demonstrating the impact and promise of his research program.
Beyond his research accomplishments, Dr. Bell has shown a strong commitment to student success through mentorship and education. Undergraduate and graduate students working in his laboratory gain valuable training in cutting-edge experimental techniques while contributing to research that addresses real-world challenges in healthcare, energy, and advanced materials.
Promotion to Associate Professor recognizes sustained excellence and the growing impact of a faculty member’s scholarly and educational contributions. Dr. Bell’s promotion reflects his impressive record of achievement and leadership within the Department of Chemistry and the broader scientific community. The department congratulates Dr. Bell on this well-deserved milestone and looks forward to his continued success in advancing research, supporting student development, and strengthening the reputation of WSU Chemistry.
In Memoriam
Kenneth L. “Ken” Nash 1950-2025
We mourn the loss of Kenneth L. “Ken” Nash, a cherished mentor, colleague, and friend whose influence shaped generations of scientists. Ken passed away peacefully on November 13, 2025, surrounded by his devoted family. His life’s work and the warmth he shared with others leave a legacy that will endure far beyond his years.
Ken’s career in radiochemistry and actinide chemistry spanned national laboratories, federal agencies, and ultimately his beloved academic home at Washington State University (WSU). At WSU, he built the distinguished Nash Group and guided students from around the world with patience, humor, and unwavering integrity. His scholarship—hundreds of publications, influential books, and decades of service— advanced the field in ways that will continue to shape nuclear chemistry for years to come.
Outside the lab, Ken embraced life fully, from his vast DVD collection to his treasured 1996 Mustang Cobra. He taught those around him that curiosity, kindness, and joy are as essential as scientific rigor.
This tribute draws inspiration from and gives full credit to Thibaut Lécrivain and Jen Shafer, who adapted Ken’s own words from his In Memoriam: Gregory R. Choppin (SXIX)—a fitting echo of the values he embodied.
Read more at ACS NUCL.