Milestones in Science: Dec. 2024

As we celebrate our 50th anniversary, we look back at the milestone achievements that shaped scientific exploration at Rice. We recognize great educators, and we highlight ongoing work that continues to push boundaries and honor the legacy of those who paved the way. 

Milestones in Science: Celebrating 50 Years of Discovery at Rice

The research team that discovered C60

The Birth of the Buckyball

In September 1985, researchers in Rice’s Space Sciences Building uncovered a soccer ball-shaped molecule that would revolutionize nanotechnology and earn a Nobel Prize in Chemistry. The discovery of C60, or the “buckyball,” emerged from an extraordinary collaboration of minds, including Rice professors Richard Smalley and Robert Curl, visiting chemist Sir Harold Kroto, and graduate students Jim Heath and Sean O’Brien. Initially met with skepticism, their findings ultimately created a new field of fullerene chemistry and paved the way for nanotechnology advancements like carbon nanotubes and graphene.

Learn how it happened
PIONEERING NANOSCIENCE TODAY

The discovery of C60 laid the foundation for the Rice researchers and alumni who are pushing the boundaries of nanoscience today. Read on for some of their remarkable stories.

SHAPING MINDS FOR TOMORROW

Historic milestones and today’s innovative research remind us that discovery thrives alongside education, and we proudly celebrate those who have transformed how future scientists learn and lead.

John Hutchinson talking with students

John Hutchinson’s Vision for Student-Centered Active Learning at Rice

John Hutchinson, chemistry professor and former Dean of Undergraduates, was instrumental in launching SCALAR, an idea sparked by a 2011 Scientia conference. SCALAR reimagines classrooms with flexible seating for small-group collaboration, encouraging students to engage in problem-solving and discussion. His CHEM 121 course was among the first to adopt this immersive approach, putting students’ intellectual growth at the forefront.

Discover how it came together

Acknowledgement

This work was made possible with support from the Fondren Fellows program.