Dr. Karen Wooley

Biography

Karen Wooley holds the W. T. Doherty-Welch Chair and is a University Distinguished Professor in the Department of Chemistry at Texas A&M University, with a joint appointment in the Department of Materials Science & Engineering. She earned her B.S. in Chemistry from Oregon State University in 1988 and her Ph.D. in Polymer/Organic Chemistry from Cornell University in 1993. Her academic career includes a significant period at Washington University in St. Louis before relocating to Texas A&M University in July 2009. Wooley's research focuses on the synthesis and characterization of degradable polymers derived from natural products, unique macromolecular architectures, and complex polymer assemblies, emphasizing strategies that promote sustainability and reduce reliance on petrochemicals. Her exemplary work has earned her numerous accolades, including election as a Fellow in several prestigious organizations, and she was named the Southeastern Conference Professor of the Year in 2021. Wooley's efforts target critical global issues, such as plastic pollution and climate change, making significant contributions to the fields of materials science and green chemistry.

Research Interests

Experience