Photosynthesis is something most everyone learned about in
school. But how are scientists using this natural process to harness the energy
of sunlight and create useful fuel and materials? Learn more at a free lecture
offered by the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point.
“Plant Envy: Attempting to Understand and Replicate the
Chemistry of Photosynthesis” will be held at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, October 8,
presented by Nate Bowling, an associate professor of chemistry. Held in
the Pinery Room of the Portage Country Public Library, 1001 Main Street,
Stevens Point, this is the second talk in the eight-part College of Letters and
Science 2013-2014 Community Lecture Series. The public may attend free of
charge.
“The natural process of photosynthesis is incredibly complex
and would be nearly impossible to reproduce,” said Bowling. “Instead, what
chemists pursue are simplified systems that yield photosynthesis-like
conversion of natural light into storable, usable energy. This requires both an
understanding of how photosynthesis works and the ability to design and
fabricate synthetic systems with these capabilities.”
Bowling received his undergraduate degree in chemistry from
Valparaiso University and a doctorate in organic chemistry from UW-Madison. He
teaches several courses, including Basic Chemistry and Advanced Organic
Chemistry. His research and scholarly efforts have resulted in several
successful grants including a $248,228 award from the National Science
Foundation for development of alternative synthetic routes to complex
structures.
The entire College of Letters and Science Community Lecture
Series schedule and videos of previous lectures may be viewed at www.uwsp.edu/cols/lectureseries.