Ian R. Gould

Ian R. Gould is a distinguished President's Professor in the School of Molecular Sciences at Arizona State University. His academic journey began at the University of Manchester in the United Kingdom, where he earned his B.Sc. in 1977 and Ph.D. in 1980. Under the mentorship of Tony Gorman, he delved into the intricate mechanisms of singlet oxygen reactions, laying a strong foundation for his future endeavors in the field of chemistry. In 1981, Ian joined the renowned laboratory of Nick Turro at Columbia University as a postdoctoral researcher. During his time there, he explored various aspects of mechanistic organic chemistry, focusing on the reactions of carbenes, ylides, and radicals, as well as reactions occurring in microheterogeneous environments. This experience enriched his understanding and expertise in the field, paving the way for his subsequent contributions to chemistry. Ian's career took a significant turn in 1986 when he joined the Corporate Research Laboratories at the Eastman Kodak Company in Rochester, NY. Here, he collaborated extensively with Samir Farid, investigating the fundamental aspects of single electron transfer reactions and the behavior of radical ions. His work at Kodak also involved participation in the NSF Science and Technology Center for Photoinduced Charge Transfer, further broadening his research horizons. In 1998, Ian transitioned to Arizona State University as an Assistant Professor, where he quickly rose through the ranks. By 2004, he had achieved the position of Full Professor, and in 2005, he was honored with the title of President's Professor. At ASU, his research interests have evolved to encompass organic geochemistry and geochemically inspired green organic chemistry, reflecting his commitment to sustainable scientific practices. Beyond his research in chemistry, Ian is deeply invested in education. He is actively involved in understanding student performance in organic chemistry courses, aiming to enhance the learning experience for students. Collaborating with Kurt VanLehn, he is also pioneering the development of intelligent online tutoring systems for organic chemistry, leveraging technology to support student success. Ian R. Gould's career is a testament to his dedication to advancing the field of chemistry and improving educational methodologies. His contributions continue to inspire both his peers and students, making a lasting impact on the scientific community.