Science & Society Public Lecture

Raised in the farmland of central Illinois, Dr. Simanek grew up surrounded by corn destined for feed or alcohol. After completing a degree in chemistry at the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign in 1991, he pursued graduate work at Harvard University. Following completion of his PhD in 1996 and a post-doctoral stint at The Scripps Research Institute, Dr. Simanek joined the faculty of Texas A&M University in 1998 rising to the rank of full professor and leading the general chemistry program that serviced approximately 4000 students each semester. In 2010, he accepted the Robert A. Welch Chair at Texas Christian University where he now serves as department chair and director of the TCU IdeaFactory. As a synthetic chemist, his research focuses on the creation of new drugs. His book, Shots of Knowledge: The Science of Whiskey, was published in 2016 and has garnered praise and awards.

Abstract:  Whiskey is interesting. It can serve as a lens through which science, engineering and history can be examined. Whiskey’s creation relies on input from multiple disciplines; from agriculture and forestry to chemical engineering and biochemistry. Whether the discussion centers on bourbon or Scotch, a single malt or Canadian blend, the influences of the great ideas and great thinkers of science and engineering shine through. Join Dr. Eric Simanek of Texas Christian University with a discussion of one of the world’s treasured spirits and with vignettes on how it has shaped history.