On Friday, April 10th we held a day of events in honor of Professor David M. Hercules, a former chair and an important person in the history of our department.
We held a seminar presented by Professor David C. Muddiman. Prof. Muddiman received his Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry from the University of Pittsburgh in 1995 under the mentorship of the late David M. Hercules. Following Prof. Hercules’s passing, the Department of Chemistry established the Hercules Memorial Fellowship Award to honor his legacy. This award recognizes an outstanding graduate student or postdoctoral researcher, with particular emphasis on scientific creativity, independence, leadership, and the ability to collaborate across disciplines. The award will be presented to this year’s recipient following the seminar.
Our 2026 David M. Hercules Fellowship Award went to Shubhankar Kundu! Congratulations Shubhankar!
"I'm a fourth-year graduate student at Professor Haitao Liu’s group. My research focuses on the surface chemistry of biomaterials and bio-interface science. I use DNA nanotechnology for protein patterning and polymer coatings for developing neurosurgical devices in collaboration with UPMC. I’m also exploring interactions of PFAS with DNA and development of nanoimprinted antibacterial plastics. Till date I have mentored eight undergraduate students, some of them have co-authored in peer reviewed journals and presented their work at national undergraduate research conferences. I'm actively involved in leading a Pitt affiliated student organization, serving as a broad member of PLU, and contributing as a student advisor to the Research,
Opportunity, and Development team of the University of Pittsburgh Board of Trustees during the current academic year. I'm deeply grateful to my advisor, Professor Haitao Liu, who has immensely influenced me in my scientific development, leadership quality, and character building."
After our the Seminar and award we held a career panel followed by a private reception and dinner.
Special Thanks to Dr. Shirley Hercules for allowing us to celebrate her husband and his legacy!
