USM to Host Polymer Science and Engineering Research Symposium

Fri, 10/07/2022 - 08:25am | By: Van Arnold

The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) will host the “52 Years of Polymer Science and Engineering at Southern Miss” Research Symposium on Friday, Oct. 14 in conjunction with homecoming festivities at the University. The symposium is set for 8:30 a.m. until 5 p.m. at the Thames Polymer Science Research Center on the Hattiesburg campus.

Sponsored by the School of Polymer Science and Engineering (SPSE), the symposium will showcase new faculty, emerging research, newly acquired instrumentation, updated laboratories, and students.

Presentations by new faculty will involve polymers in biomedical research, energy, and sustainability. Undergraduate and graduate students will provide poster presentations on cutting-edge research in aerospace composites, biomaterials, and nanomaterials.  

SPSE Director Dr. Derek Patton notes that the symposium will feature approximately 35 presenters.

“This symposium brings together researchers from academia, industry, and national labs to discuss the latest advances and challenges in polymer science and engineering,” said Patton. “Returning alumni learn of recent research advances and new capabilities in SPSE, while having the opportunity to interview students for open positions in their facilities. Students gain the opportunity to network with alumni and industry/national lab leaders.”

The symposium will include remarks from President Joe Paul and Dr. Shelby Thames, former USM president and founder of the Department of Polymer Science. A tailgate event with alumni is planned on Saturday, Oct. 15 when the USM Golden Eagles take on Arkansas State in the annual homecoming contest.

To learn more about the School of Polymer Science and Engineering at USM, call 601.266.4868 or visit: https://www.usm.edu/polymer-science-engineering/index.php