Joseph S. Francisco, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and Elmer H. and Ruby M. Cordes Chair in Chemistry, was named an honorary professor of Beijing University for Chemical Technology (BUCT), the university's highest academic honor.
The university recognized Francisco for his landmark contributions to research in the field of atmospheric chemistry, particularly for his seminal work in applying new tools from theoretical chemistry to atmospheric chemical problems, his unique blend of theory with experiments with a cross-disciplinary approach, and his leadership in promoting international collaboration to tackle haze problems in eastern and southeastern Asia.
Founded in 1958, BUCT is one of China's key institutions of higher learning, especially in chemical engineering and chemistry. The university rarely confers the title of honorary professor - Francisco is only the 42nd professor to receive the award. It requires the approval of the Chinese Ministry of Education.
The conferment ceremony took place June 13 in Beijing and was presented with the certification of appointment. Francisco gave the lecture, "From Atmospheric Complexes to Aerosols: New Insights into Atmospheric Chemistry."
