Angela M. Belcher

Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts ~W.M. Keck Professor of Energy. Materials chemist with expertise in biomaterials, biomolecular materials, organic-inorganic interfaces, and solid-state chemistry. Primary research focus is evolving new materials for energy, electronics, and the environment. Employs an interdisciplinary approach to build high-power batteries, catalysts, and solar materials with improved device performance while using environmentally friendly, room temperature synthesis. Research topics include: biomimetic synthesis of nonbiological inorganic phases with novel electronic and magnetic properties directed by proteins and synthetic analogs; synthesis and self-assembly of smart polymers to pattern size-restricted metals and semiconductors in order to make devices with novel electronic and optical properties on length scales that surpass current lithographic capabilities; design and synthesis of biocomposite materials of exceptional strength and regularity; and surface modification of high surface area inorganic phases applied to high surface area catalysts, biosensors, and environmental remediation. Founded Cambrios Technologies, Inc., in 2002 and Siluria Technologies, Inc., in 2007. Awarded a MacArthur Fellowship (2004) and a Popular Mechanics Breakthrough Award (2006). Named a Hero for her climate change research by Time (2007) and one of the top 100 people changing the country by Rolling Stone (2009). Received the Eni Prize for Renewable and Non-Conventional Energy (2010).~