Kenneth J. Takeuchi

Our current scientific research involves the development of synthetic strategies yielding control and variation of both crystallite size on the nanometer scale and non-stoichiometric chemical composition of inorganic materials, and the subsequent utility of these inorganic materials towards energy storage. Specific inorganic materials of interest include: iron-containing spinels and inverse spinels, bimetallic layered or channeled materials where both metals are redox active, and inorganic materials containing alkali and alkaline earth metals. Paradigms critical to the fundamental understanding of battery function emerging from the above studies are the structure / function relationships among crystallite size, particle size, and the electrochemistry of inorganic materials.

Our previous research centered on the ligand exchange, electron transfer, or atom transfer of molecular ruthenium coordination compounds. Of note were the steric and electronic kinetic ligand effects of tertiary phosphines, trans-spanning diphosphines, or heteroscorpionate ligands on a variety of ruthenium based chemistries.

Effective communication within the classroom is a critical factor in effective teaching and learning. In order to generate a productive dialogue between teacher and student, there are a number of important factors that both the teacher and the student need to consider. Thus, I have created several lectures with the hope of enabling teachers and students to establish a genuine dialogue.

I have formulated a model of “Information, Organization, Motivation, Learning” as a framework to instruct other faculty mentors on success in and out of the classroom. I have developed lectures discussing “Coursework from a Professor’s Point of View,” and “Professors’ Expectations” which describe a systematic method whereby students can better understand how to approach the university environment and interact with their professors. I have also developed a presentation on “Tutoring Techniques”. The above lectures have been given over 70 times (>3200 attendees) on a local, regional, or national basis, with audiences ranging from students to tutors to teaching assistants to administrators to professors, often involving groups underrepresented in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

The above lectures have been given over 75 times (>3200 attendees) on a local, regional, or national basis, with audiences ranging from students to tutors to teaching assistants to administrators to professors, often involving groups underrepresented in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

National awards and honors

• Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), 2013.
• Fellow of the American Chemical Society, 2011.
• New York State recipient, U.S. Professor of the Year Award, 2010. The Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching and the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE).
• Inspire Integrity Award, National runner-up 2008. The National Society of Collegiate Scholars.
• Responsible Care National Catalyst Award, Received 1997. The Chemical Manufacturers Association.

State and regional awards and honors

• SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching, 1986.
• Stanley C. Israel Regional Award for Advancing Diversity in the Chemical Sciences, Northeast region recipient 2006. The American Chemical Society.
• University at Buffalo Faculty Award for Excellence in Mentoring Undergraduate Research and Creative Activity, 2011.
• Collegiate Science and Technology Entry Program Essential Piece Award, Recipient 2009. UB CSTEP.
• Ronald E. McNair Outstanding Faculty Mentor Award, 2006. UB McNair chapter.
• Milton Plesur Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching, 2003, 1997, 1989, 1985 (four awards). UB Undergraduate Student Association.
• Most Outstanding Graduate Faculty Award, 2002. UB Graduate Student Association.
• Friend of Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) Award, 1993. UB EOP.
• FNSM Dean’s Award for Excellence in Teaching, 1997. UB Faculty of Natural Sciences & Mathematics.
• Golden Key National Honor Society, honorary member.
• Mortar Board, honorary member.
• Phi Eta Sigma, honorary member.