Chemist Martin Wins 2025 Herty Award

The Georgia Section of the American Chemical Society has named Jim Martin, a professor of chemistry, as this year’s recipient of the Charles Herty Award. Each year, the award is presented to a chemist in the Southeast who has made significant research and service contributions.

Martin’s research is focused on material properties and processes at the interface of molecular and solid-state chemistry. His findings explain the role of cooperativity in condensed matter, improving our understanding of thermodynamics and kinetics that control processes like crystal growth and the behavior of concentrated solutions. His pioneering discoveries can help address challenges in energy, climate and health. Martin is also engaged in science and education policy, having served four terms on the Wake County Board of Education. 

Martin — the first recipient from NC State in the Herty Award’s 91-year history — will be presented with the award in September. He will also be a keynote speaker at the Annual Herty Medalist Undergraduate Research Symposium. 

The first Herty Award, named after chemist Charles Herty, was awarded in 1933. Herty encouraged chemists to “use your chemistry to do something for your state or country.” 

Martin earned bachelor’s degrees in chemistry and biology from Goshen College and his doctorate in inorganic chemistry and physical chemistry from Indiana University. He conducted postdoctoral research at the University of Paris in France and at Iowa State University before joining NC State’s Department of Chemistry in 1994.