Missouri State University’s College of Natural and Applied Sciences (CNAS) recognizes faculty for outstanding work through teaching, research and service. The newly appointed professorships and fellowships include: 

• Roy D. Blunt Life Science Professorship – two new appointments. 
• James F. O’Brien Endowed Fellowship in Chemistry. 
• Brian and Anna Tobben Professorship in Mathematics. 
• Mace/Turblex Professorship. 

“Faculty who are awarded the Blunt Professorship in CNAS have a passion for knowledge and student success. They’re seeking their next promotion, and this enables them to further their careers at MSU,” said CNAS Dean Dr. Tammy Jahnke. 

Roy D. Blunt Life Science Professorship 

Thanks to a $4 million grant from the United States Department of Education, CNAS established the Roy D. Blunt Life Science Professorship to support scholarly activities, teaching and service in the college. 

Recipients of this professorship include: 

• Dr. Cyren Rico, associate professor of chemistry and biochemistry.
• Dr. Razib Iqbal, associate professor of computer science.
  

  

  

Rico works on understanding the ecological effects of nanomaterials. He also researches topics like isotopic techniques, ecological effects and food safety.

“I appreciate the effort of administration for this kind opportunity,” Rico said. “This is a big boost for students’ success in terms of training, publishing and presenting at conferences.” 

Iqbal’s work revolves around smart home technology. He focuses mainly on the use of humans as sensors.  

“This award is not only a recognition of my work, but also a commitment to furthering excellence in research and education in the field of smart home technology,” Iqbal said. “I’m excited to embark on this journey of discovery, collaborating with brilliant minds and pushing the boundaries of what is possible.”  

James F. O’Brien Endowed Fellowship in Chemistry 

An alumnus and student of O’Brien created the James F. O’Brien Fellowship in Chemistry. The recipient must be a chemistry faculty member with a degree in physical, theoretical or inorganic chemistry or conducts research activities in physical chemistry. 

The recipient of this fellowship is: 

• Dr. Gary Meints, professor of chemistry and biochemistry.
  

  

Meints focuses his research on physical and biophysical chemistry. He also conducts studies on DNA. He credits his achievement to O’Brien’s leadership and guidance and hopes to follow in his footsteps of fostering student success.

“He’s a lovely person and well-respected professor across the board,” Meints shared. “I hope to carry on his traditions, and this award is validation that I’m on the right track.” 

Brian and Anna Tobben Professorship in Mathematics 

MSU alumni Brian and Anna Tobben funded the Brian and Anna Tobben Professorship in Mathematics. It is awarded to a faculty member in the department of mathematics. 

The recipient of this professorship is:

• Dr. Ngoc Do, assistant professor of mathematics.
  

  

Do researches inverse problems, hybrid imaging and a few other areas in the mathematics field.

“This professorship ignites both excitement and a deep sense of responsibility within me,” Do said. “I’m committed to pushing the boundaries of research through mathematical theory and advanced data science methodologies.” 

Do plans to use this opportunity to promote a heightened understanding of mathematics. She notes the most rewarding part of the experience is witnessing the growth of her students and preparing them for their future endeavors. 

Mace/Turblex Professorship 

Mace/Turblex Professorship is awarded to a Missouri State engineering faculty member. Guy Mace, an MSU alumnus, funded this professorship as the cooperative engineering program began. 

The recipient of this professorship is:

• Dr. Tayo Obafemi-Ajayi, associate professor of cooperative engineering.
  

  

Obafemi-Ajayi develops artificial intelligence algorithms for use in biomedical applications. Her research centers on the application of machine learning.  

“This achievement propels me to push new frontiers in my research,” Obafemi-Ajayi said. “The professorship will allow me to continue to support my students and engage in meaningful collaborative research in my lab.”  

She hopes her research will improve MSU’s visibility in the AI and computer intelligence field.  

Read about continuing appointments in CNAS