University of Richmond Chemistry Professor Michael Leopold Receives National Award for Outstanding Mentorship

UNIVERSITY OF RICHMOND — Michael Leopold, Floyd D. and Elisabeth S. Gottwald Professor of Chemistry at the University of Richmond, has received the 2022 Outstanding Mentorship Award from the Chemistry Division of the Council on Undergraduate Research.

Leopold’s area of expertise is bioanalytical nanomaterials. His most recent research, which is supported by the National Science Foundation, focuses on the development of a nanoparticle-based sensor to be used for detecting explosives, drugs, or diseases. He teaches general chemistry, forensics, and analytical chemistry.

This award honors exceptional mentoring and advising. Leopold frequently mentors undergraduate students, including Goldwater and Beckman Scholar Harry Dang.

“Dr. Leopold is an extremely dedicated research mentor, and under his guidance I have been able to develop independence in the lab, enhance my scientific reasoning skills, and become well-versed in performing analytical chemistry techniques,” Dang said

“This award means a great deal to me because it signals my devotion to mentoring undergraduates in chemistry,” Leopold said.

Leopold has taught at UR since 2002. This award is the latest recognition of Leopold’s contributions to his field, his students, and the University of Richmond. Earlier this year, he was named an Outstanding Faculty Award recipient by the State Council of Higher Education.

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