Kate Biberdorf, Professor for the Public Understanding of Science at the University of Notre Dame, is one of four 2026 recipients of the Outstanding Young Texas Exes Award. This award, given by the University of Texas Austin alumni association, honors alumni under 40 who are “extraordinary thought leaders and breakout stars.”
Better known as Kate the Chemist, Biberdorf is a chemist, science entertainer, and educator. An expert at unforgettable theatrical experiences, she excels at translating chemistry for audiences of all scientific backgrounds, providing an entry-point for curiosity and interest in science. Her extensive background in outreach, including 10 years at the University of Texas prior to joining Notre Dame, has made her one of the most visible and trusted science ambassadors in the country.
Kate has made numerous media appearances, including segments on The Today Show, The Kelly Clarkson Show, NBC Nightly News, The Rachel Ray Show, Star Talk with Neil deGrasse Tyson, The Sherri Shepherd Show, and the Late Show with Stephen Colbert. She is the bestselling author of The Big Book of Experiments, The Awesome Book of Edible Experiments for Kids, It’s Elemental: The Hidden Chemistry in Everything, and the children’s fiction series Kate the Chemist. She also maintains an impressive social media presence, with over 129,000 Instagram and 283,00 TikTok followers.