Angela Wilson: Teaching students to love chemistry like she does

	Angela Wilson, assistant professor of chemistry, uses computational chemistry to numerically simulate chemical reactions.

Angela Wilson radiates an aura of success, and though her academic career is still young, her accomplishments are many.

Wilson, an assistant professor of chemistry, joined the UNT faculty in 2000. She received a bachelor's degree in chemistry from Eastern Washington University in 1990, followed by a doctoral degree in chemical physics from the University of Minnesota in 1995. From 1995 to 1997 she was a postdoctoral fellow in the Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory.

Since joining UNT, Wilson has distinguished herself repeatedly. She is only the second person in the school's history to receive a National Science Foundation Career Award.

"This is a very big deal," says Ruthanne Thomas, professor and chair of the chemistry department. "The entire department takes pride in having an NSF award winner on faculty."

The award, which is accompanied by a $480,000 grant, is based on an individual's research and educational goals. Wilson develops computational chemistry approaches used to describe the physical properties of molecules. Using a computer to simulate chemical reactions numerically, she develops highly accurate methods used in the study of atmospheric processes, such as the formation of acid rain.

Another major grant has recently been awarded to the university due to Wilson's efforts. The Research Experience for Undergraduates program provided the university with more than $161,000 to foster research opportunities for more students.

Working to instill in students a love for science stems from Wilson's own love of the field.

"I was always interested in science, specifically chemistry and physics," Wilson says. She had such a passion for science that, after high school, she turned down a four-year music scholarship to pursue chemistry.

Even though music plays second fiddle to her love of science, it is still a big part of Wilson's life. She has played the clarinet for more than 25 years, since she was in the fifth grade.

"I listen to any kind of music, from modern rock to classical to rhythm and blues, though I'm not really a fan of country music," she says.

However, her husband of 13 years, a former Air Force pilot who now flies for Southwest Airlines, is a big fan of country.

"He occasionally drags me to Billy Bob's," she says with a laugh.

Additionally, for the past three years, she has played on a soccer team that goes by the name Stamina. The name, Wilson admits, is a bit ironic.

"It's definitely something we need more of," she jokes.

Wilson shows the same commitment and hard work in her career that she does in music and sports.

"Angela really brings a lot to the department and to UNT in general," says Thomas.

Wilson says there is much to appreciate at UNT.

"I couldn't have asked for better colleagues," she says, "and working with the students has really been a pleasure."

BY PETER HOFSTAD paiswri2@unt.edu

Other featured articles in this issue:

• Regents change admissions policy, extend president's contract
• Million-dollar touring bus provides VIPs with star treatment
• Union Gallery welcomes staff arts and crafts show this month
• Hot news: Ideas to conserve energy and to dress to beat the heat this summer
• Staff Council representatives elected
• Making sure that Texas trees provide shade this summer
• Faculty Senate elects officers for 2003-04
• Faculty recognized at Honors Day event
• Staff Council working to find more effective ways to communicate with staff

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