VT College of Science Magazine Spring 2009 | Page 4

Issue No. 6 sprINg 2009

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EXPANdiNg
the World of
PoLyMERS
Renowned chemist continues to discover
new uses for polymer materials
By Catherine Doss
A cartoon clipping taped to James McGrath’s door reads: “Do

High Performance Polymeric Adhesives and Composites from

not disturb. Don’t even think about it.” One below says: “Please

1989 to 2000, and he is currently co-director of the university’s

wake me for meals.”

Macromolecules and Interfaces Institute.

Considering the 40+ years he’s led ground-breaking research in

When recently asked if he planned to retire, McGrath, without

polymer chemistry and tirelessly mentored hundreds of future

missing a beat, replied, “Never!” He humbly added, “as long as

chemists, it’s a wonder McGrath finds the time to sleep at all.

I’m doing a good job.”

But this 74-year-old international icon in the world of polymer
and macromolecular chemistry shows no signs of trading his
lab coat for a fishing pole any time soon.
Polymers are tiny molecules strung in long repeating chains.
Polymers, also known as macromolecules, are basically everywhere: the proteins and starches in the food we eat, the tires
on our cars, and even in our bodies as DNA. Polymer chemistry,
also known as macromolecular chemistry, is a multidisciplinary
field that deals with the chemical synthesis and properties of
polymers.

With unbridled passion for his research and the notoriety that
comes with being called an icon in his field, McGrath has had
more than enough to keep himself busy in the world of polymer chemistry for more than four decades.
“It is difficult to overestimate the contributions Jim has made to
polymer science,” said Benny Freeman, Kenneth A. Kobe Professor in Chemical Engineering at the University of Texas at Austin,
and frequent research partner. “He enjoys unmatched enthusiasm and passion for his work and is a world authority in the
area of polymer science.”

McGrath, who is a University Distinguished Professor and Ethyl
Chair in Chemistry, has been with Virginia Tech for almost 35

PoLyMER SciENcE BASicS

years. He started as an assistant professor in 1975 and was

Today’s tires and tomorrow’s fuel-cell-powered engines de-

named full professor five years later. He was instrumental in

pend upon basic polymer science and engineering that allows

starting the undergraduate and graduate polymer chemistry

multi-component materials to exhibit the most desired attri-

courses at the university and was appointed director of the Ma-

butes of each ingredient, needs that have been advanced by

terials Research Institute in 1987. He directed one of the first

McGrath’s research. Understanding the chemistry of polymers

National Science Foundation Science & Technology Centers for

helps us use them wisely including in tires that don’t shred,
vehicles that can be powered by hydrogen, and portable de-