IU assistant prof receives $100K research grant

The Research Corporation for Science Advancement, the first American foundation developed solely for scientific research, awarded IU assistant chemistry professor Lane Allen Baker with its prestigious Cottrell Scholar Award last week.

Research Corporation for Science Advancement named Baker one of 10 scientists across the country to receive a $100,000 grant for scientific research and teaching.

Award winners are selected based on the quality of their scientific research and their dedication to teaching at both graduate and undergraduate levels.

Baker said he’s honored to receive the award and its benefits for research in the IU chemistry department.

“The money is great for the department and my research group,” Baker said. “It will help support graduate student salaries and research opportunities for undergraduates.”

Baker said the money will also fund his current project targeting high school students and IU undergraduate students who own iPods and other electronic devices to create podcasts and downloadable discussions about chemistry in modular units.

“The money will help fund research to develop electronic media and content in chemistry to bridge distance divides and contribute to a more diverse media of communication about chemistry research,” Baker said.

Baker’s research group is composed of graduate and undergraduate students studying nanopores, tiny openings in living organisms.

Maks Berylo, graduate student and member of Baker’s research group, said Baker’s teaching techniques make him a great person to work for and deserving of the award.
“He’s open to your ideas, he’s there any time you need him or have questions to ask and he has a really laid-back style,” Berylo said.

Kayla Mathews, a sophomore in IU’s chemistry department and a Baker group member, said Baker provides opportunities for her to assist in research.

“He listens to input, and he makes sure I have the ability to see and assist with research I wouldn’t have been able to otherwise,” Mathews said. “He’s the perfect balance in a teacher – very laid-back but is hands-on and provides a diverse collection of research.”