Ronald Sanderson selected as Outstanding Polymer Science Alumnus

Dr. Ronald Sanderson, director of the Institute for Polymer Science at Stellenbosch University, South Africa, has been selected as The University of Akron's Outstanding Polymer Science Alumnus for 2008. An award ceremony and symposium in Sanderson's honor will take place on Friday, Oct. 10 at UA.

Sanderson joined Stellenbosch University's Department of Chemistry and Polymer Science shortly after he received his doctorate in controlled polymerization techniques from UA in 1969. At Stellenbosch, Sanderson established training courses in polymer science, a nonexistent academic field in Africa at that time. Sanderson's early successes include leading his research team to prepare glass fiber materials and develop rocket propellants for defense purposes.

When he retires at the end of this year, Sanderson will leave a legacy of student training at a level supported by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. Earlier this year, Sanderson received a 2007-08 National Science and Technology Forum Award for his contributions to train and mentor black researchers and students in science, engineering and technology.

Holds more than 40 patents

Among his many achievements, Sanderson has advanced South African manufacturing techniques, received more than 40 local and international patents, attracted a significant research funding base from industry and developed strong international collaborations involving the United States, Europe and Asia.  

"Dr. Sanderson's contributions as a polymer scientist and as a mentor to fellow researchers exemplify the finest in the field," says Dr. Stephen Cheng, dean of UA's College of Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering. "We're pleased to acknowledge Dr. Sanderson's exceptional work, which spans several decades."

The University of Akron has played a role in nearly every major development in the evolution of rubber chemistry and polymer science since the dawn of the 20th century.  The world's first course in rubber chemistry was offered by the University's forerunner, Buchtel College, in 1909. During World War II, UA's work in synthetic rubber was so critical to the nation's war effort that the campus now bears a National Historic Landmark to commemorate its role. The Institute for Rubber Research was founded at UA in 1956, and the first doctoral degree awarded by the university was for polymer science in 1959. In 1988, UA established the world's first College of Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering, the largest academic program of its kind. Today, UA's polymer researchers continue to open new frontiers in science and engineering through nanotechnology, biomaterials and photonics. electrical and computer engineering and another in biomedial engineering.