Paul Helquist, Professor and Associate Chair of Chemistry and Biochemistry, was honored with the University of Notre Dame 2010 Faculty Award at the annual President's Dinner held May 18. The Faculty Award singles out that faculty member who, in the opinion of his or her colleagues, has contributed outstanding service to the University of Notre Dame, such as through leadership activities, mentoring faculty colleagues, or exemplary dedication to students.
Professor Helquist has distinguished himself as an internationally respected expert in synthetic organic chemistry. His research program is currently placing the greatest emphasis on the development of new drugs to treat rare diseases. Niemann-Pick type C disease is a major focus, entailing an extensive collaboration between his laboratory and several of the top medical schools in the country in a partnership with the Ara Parseghian Medical Research Foundation. Among his many other research projects are the synthesis of anti-cancer drugs and antibiotics derived from marine organisms.
Professor Helquist's citation reads in part, "During his 26 years at Notre Dame, he has directed groundbreaking research that has been published in more than 160 publications, while supervising 36 Ph.D. student dissertations and eight master's theses. His impact upon undergraduates has been equally impressive, as he has proven an innovative instructor who has had a lasting impact on thousands of students in organic chemistry and synthetic organic chemistry.
"He has benefitted his department, serving as chair and as associate chair. He has also served the University well through his unstinting work to raise funds for vital projects, including the Jordan Hall of Science. His work with the Office of Development and his efforts to stress the function of the building with the architects were key to creating the exceptional teaching environment available in Jordan today."We congratulate Paul Helquist for being recognized with this award.