Seton Hill University Assistant Professor of Chemistry Jonathan Moerdyk, Ph.D., has been named one of the 30 Under 30 in science by Forbes magazine for his research involving developing organic compounds that imitate reactive properties of metals. 

“The idea was: how do we design a carbon-based molecule that has the reactivity of a metal but also make the compound stable enough that you could bottle it and put it on a shelf.” 

“Dr. Moerdyk is a rising star in the field of chemistry, and we are excited that he is a part of our community,” added Susan Yochum, SC, Ph.D., chair of Seton Hill’s Division of Natural and Health Sciences. “His research background and his appreciation for the value of a liberal arts education make him well-suited to teach at Seton Hill.” 

Dr. Moerdyk joined the Seton Hill faculty in fall 2014 after receiving his Ph.D. from the University of Texas. His doctoral research focused on developing carbon-based molecules that can mimic the reactive nature of metals but can be less expensive, more renewable and less toxic. 

“The idea was ‘how do we design a carbon-based molecule that has the reactivity of a metal but also make the compound stable enough that you could bottle it and put it on a shelf,’” Dr. Moerdyk said. 

His research in this area led to his invitation to the 2013 Lindau Nobel Laureate meeting, which brought together Nobel Laureates and the next generation of leading scientists and researchers in Lindau, Germany to share their scientific knowledge and vision. He has also been credited on 18 peer-reviewed publications (11 as first author) and was previously named to the 30 Under 30 Scientific American list.