The Robert A Welch Foundation

The Robert A. Welch Foundation Award in Chemistry. The purpose of The Robert A. Welch Award in Chemistry is to foster and encourage basic chemical research and to recognize, in a substantial manner, the value of chemical research contributions for the benefit of humankind as set forth in the will of Robert Alonzo Welch. The founder was interested in chemistry and in its service to both the betterment and the understanding of human life. We also believe this award plays an important role in aiding and strengthening the other programs of the Foundation. In accordance with these principles, the award committee will consider any person who has made important chemical research contributions that have had a significant, positive influence on humankind. We intend that the award recognizes the contributions of an individual who has not previously been recognized in a similar manner.

Norman Hackerman Award in Chemical Research. The Welch Foundation's Norman Hackerman Award in Chemical Research was established to recognize the accomplishments of chemical scientists in Texas who are in their early careers and to serve as an encouragement to those who are embarking on careers dedicated to increasing our fundamental understanding of chemistry. The award is intended for the personal benefit of the recipient, and carries no requirement for future services as a condition of receiving it. The award is made on an annual basis, when warranted, to a scientist conducting chemical research in Texas.

Welch eXperimental (WelchX) Collaboration Retreats. This program aims to bring together Texas researchers to topically focused chemistry meetings and stimulate them to ideate on challenging issues of our time. Early-to mid-career tenured faculty will be invited to this fully in-person summer meeting to stimulate collaborations that foster lasting connections among the participants, thus increasing the density of research ties across Texas and spurring the growth of basic research in the chemical sciences.