Distinguished McKnight University Professor Ilja Siepmann honored with John M. Prausnitz Award

MINNEAPOLIS / ST. PAUL (6/21/2023) – Distinguished McKnight University Professor Ilja Siepmann recently received the 2023 John M. Prausnitz Award. The citation reads: “for profound contributions to molecular modeling of physical properties and phase equilibria, through development and application of robust, transferable intermolecular potentials, novel molecular simulation methods, and service to this community.” The John M. Prausnitz Award, established in 1998, is presented triennially by the International Conference on Properties & Phase Equilibria for Product & Process Design (PPEPPD).

Professor John M. Prausnitz, in whose honor the award is given, pioneered the field of engineering-oriented molecular thermodynamics. Professor Prausnitz’ research has been instrumental in the development of the thermodynamic models used for the design of chemical plants worldwide and his pedagogical scholarship has strongly influenced the education of students in chemical engineering.

Professor Siepmann has been a member of the University Department of Chemistry since 1994, and is also a member of the graduate faculties in chemical engineering, chemical physics, data science, and materials science. Siepmann received the 2018 ASME Yeram S. Touloukian Award recognizing outstanding technical contributions in the field of thermophysical properties. Siepmann is currently the Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Chemical & Engineering Data published by the American Chemical Society. Siepmann is a member of the University of Minnesota Academy of Distinguished Teachers and recipient of the University’s Award for Outstanding Contributions to Postbaccalaureate, Graduate, and Professional Education.