It’s been quite a year for Prof. Richard Brutchey whose recent string of honors marks an extraordinary chapter in an already impressive career. In the span of just 6 months, he was named a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), received the STAR Cottrell Scholar Award, and was elected Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry (FRSC)—a rare trifecta that reflects exceptional achievement in both scientific research and education. Together, these honors signal his growing influence on an international scale and shine a spotlight on the caliber of faculty at the University of Southern California.
American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) Fellowship
Established in 1848, the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) is a cornerstone of the global scientific community. Election as an AAAS Fellow is a prestigious lifetime honor bestowed upon members by their peers in recognition of meaningful contributions to scientific progress or public understanding of science. Nominations are put forth by peers and reviewed by a council of experts spanning a wide range of disciplines, making this one of the most respected honors in American science. In March 2025, USC Dornsife proudly announced the election of four of its professors — including Richard Brutchey, Professor of Chemistry — as AAAS Fellows. This honor underscores the national esteem of his work. Prof. Brutchey leads pioneering research in colloidal nanocrystal chemistry, developing innovative methods to synthesize nanomaterials with transformative applications. “These materials aren’t just interesting at the nanoscale – they’re designed to address real-world problems,” Brutchey explains. “Our work focuses on making energy use and storage more efficient and sustainable.” This recognition highlights his impact on both scientific advancement and the broader community.
Cottrell Scholar Award (STAR Designation)
The Cottrell Scholar Award, administered by the Research Corporation for Science Advancement (RCSA), was first established in 1994 to support early-career faculty in the physical sciences who excel in both research and teaching. In recent years, select scholars have been further recognized with the STAR (Science Teaching and Research) designation—an honor awarded to Cottrell Scholars who have built a sustained record of excellence, combining scholarly innovation with a strong commitment to mentorship, teaching, and academic leadership. Recipients are chosen through a rigorous selection process that includes peer review and evidence of national impact. In April 2025, Richard Brutchey received the prestigious STAR Cottrell Scholar Award, recognizing his dedication to fostering future scientists while advancing new knowledge. Brutchey emphasizes early and equitable access to research experiences, particularly for students from underserved backgrounds. He has built long-term partnerships with community colleges to provide hands-on research opportunities, mentorship, and academic support for students who might not otherwise be exposed to research. By fostering these pathways, he has helped dozens of students transfer to four-year universities and pursue STEM degrees, strengthening diversity and inclusion within the scientific community. This award affirms his commitment to shaping the future of science through both discovery and education.
Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry (FRSC)
The Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC), founded in 1841 and headquartered in the United Kingdom, is one of the oldest professional chemistry organizations in the world. The distinction of Fellow (FRSC) is awarded to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the advancement of chemical sciences, whether through research, innovation, teaching, or professional leadership. Candidates are nominated and reviewed by a panel of existing fellows, with selection based on demonstrated excellence and professional accomplishments. Prof. Richard Brutchey was named a Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry in 2024 in recognition of his influential work in materials chemistry. His election as FRSC not only affirms the global impact of his research but also highlights the stature of USC’s Department of Chemistry on the international stage, which in turn facilitates collaborations and scientific exchanges. As a leader in his field, Brutchey continues to demonstrate his commitment to bridging the gaps in the broader scientific community and thereby advancing the chemical sciences on an international scale.
An Exceptional Faculty Member
Earning all three of these prestigious honors within a short span of time is a remarkable achievement—one that speaks to Brutchey’s dedication as both a scientist and an educator. Together, these recognitions affirm not only his excellence in research and teaching, but also his leadership in shaping the future of science. On the significance of receiving these honors during the past academic year, Richard Brutchey states:
“I am deeply honored to receive these recognitions, which reflect not just my work but the collective effort of a remarkable community. I’m grateful to my supportive colleagues whose collaboration and guidance make this work possible, and to the hardworking students whose curiosity and dedication drive our discoveries forward. These honors motivate me to continue fostering inclusive research opportunities and mentorship, ensuring that the next generation of scientists have the resources and support to thrive.”
USC’s Department of Chemistry is fortunate to count Prof. Brutchey among its faculty—someone who brings intellectual rigor, creativity, and mentorship to every aspect of academic life. And so, the Department congratulates Prof. Richard Brutchey on this extraordinary series of accomplishments and thanks him for his dedication.