A Florida State University professor has been recognized by the Tallahassee Scientific Society for his contributions to science and his commitment to science education and outreach.

Associate Professor of Chemistry and Biochemistry Kenneth Hanson will receive the 2023 Gold Medal Award, which has been presented annually since 2004 to a scientist or scholar in Tallahassee and the greater Big Bend region whose career achievements in science as well as science education and outreach are deemed exemplary.

“I feel nothing but pride in being recognized by the local scientific community for not only my contributions to science but also my scientific outreach,” Hanson said. “For the last decade, I have met and worked with scientists in the local area across all disciplines — from sociology to astrophysics. It is a pleasure to find others who enjoy sharing their science while also learning from each other.”

Hanson will receive the award Thursday, Nov. 2, at the Challenger Learning Center. The evening’s events begin with a reception at 6 p.m., followed by the award presentation at 7 p.m. Afterward, Hanson will host a 30-minute talk about his research and outreach efforts. All events are free and open to the public.

Hanson’s lab, the Hanson Research Group, focuses on molecular photochemistry and photophysics, or the study of light — photons — and light’s interaction with molecules. When a molecule absorbs light, the photon’s energy can be dissipated via heat, emission of light, breaking of bonds, generating electricity and more.

“Anyone who has been sunburned or gotten in a car that sat in the sun all day indirectly knows how much power there is in a photon,” Hanson said. “If you can use the structure and design of molecules and materials to transform this energy at will to break bonds, move electrons, or emit light, then you can solve major problems in the areas of solar energy conversion, catalysis, bioimaging, sensing and more.”

Because Hanson studies light-related processes, much of his research generates visually stunning outcomes. The lab’s X (formerly known as Twitter) and Instagram pages were launched in 2013 to display and share photos featuring brilliantly hued and sometimes glowing results. The artwork has won several Photo of the Month awards, including the 2014 Chemistry Photo of the Year award from Chemical & Engineering News. Images have been publicized by the National Science Foundation, Chemistry World Magazine and numerous news outlets.

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