Recent Headlines
- From Research Field to Public Art: ESF-Donated Willow Shapes New Thornden Park Installation
- ESF Professor René Germain Receives National Award for Family Forest Education Through Landmark Watershed Program
- CNY ASM Conference Brings Microbiologists from Central New York and Beyond Together
- ESF Honors Rhea Jezer and Damian Vanetti with 2026 Sol Feinstone Environmental Award
Meet the Faculty - Neal Abrams
What happens when chemistry meets the environment? Neal Abrams, associate professor in ESF’s Department of Chemistry, shares what drew him to teaching at a small, environmentally focused college and what he enjoys most about helping students make the leap from high school to college-level science. From introductory general chemistry lectures and hands-on laboratory courses to upper-level inorganic chemistry, Abrams works with students at different stages of their academic journey — and with graduate students learning to become instructors themselves.
Abrams also discusses his research in photocatalysis, renewable energy and materials chemistry, including his work with inexpensive, abundant materials that use sunlight to drive chemical reactions. His research explores potential ways to break down persistent compounds such as dyes that can enter waterways, connecting fundamental chemistry with real-world environmental challenges.