Bates appointed Regents Professor

Frank Bates

Frank Bates, head of the Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, has been named a Regents Professor by the University’s Board of Regents. The Regents Professorship is the University’s highest faculty honor.

Bates was recognized for his pioneering achievements as a polymer scientist. He discovered the deuterium isotope effect in polymer blends, which has had lasting results on numerous phase behavior studies using neutron scattering. This groundbreaking work set him apart from his peers at an early stage in his career.

Bates is among a small number of polymer scientists who have shaped the current field of polymer physical science, and is considered the leading expert on the use of neutron scattering as a tool in organic materials science. He is one of five Institute of Technology faculty members currently holding the title of Regents Professor.

The Regents Professorship was established in 1965 by the Board of Regents to serve as the highest recognition for faculty who have made unique contributions to the quality of the University of Minnesota through exceptional accomplishments in teaching, research, scholarship or creative work, and contributions to the public good. More…