WT Department of Chemistry and Physics wins grant to expand research, teaching capabilities

CANYON, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) — West Texas A&M University’s Department of Chemistry and Physics has received a grant from the Welch Foundation for $75,000.

According to Dr. Nick Flynn, professor of biochemistry and Dr. Shiquan Tao, professor of chemistry, the grant will help purchase a gas chromatography/mass spectrometry instrument to research in fermentation sciences and sensor development.

“These areas of research generate rather complex samples, so we needed instrumentation that can analyze that information,” Flynn said in a statement. “Our students also will be able to train on the system, which will help both chemistry and biochemistry graduates remain competitive in the marketplace.”

Officials stated the GC-MS instrument separates compounds based on their chemical properties and analyzes the compounds. The instrument is used in forensics, environmental monitoring, drug testing of athletes and more, according to the American Chemical Society.

Officials also stated the research will also include researching the science of fermentation, which can be used to identify the compounds and the making of beer.

Flynn’s recently published book, “Chemist Brewers: Insights from Chemists and Biologists in the Brewing Industry” has been a longtime passion for the biochemistry professor according to WT officials.

“Chemists and biologists are a natural fit in the brewing industry, given their training, background and interests,” Flynn said. “In my interviews, I spoke with people in all levels of employment in the industry, from brewery staff, to brewery founders, to lab managers.”

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