The Jane and Norman Li Distinguished Seminar Series in Chemical Engineering and Materials Science
Hosted by The Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science
LOCATION: University Center Complex, Tech Flex Auditorium
SPEAKERS: Norman N. Li and Jane C. Li, NL Chemical Technology, Inc.
The annual Jane and Norman Li Distinguished Seminar Series invites exceptional technology pioneers and business leaders to Stevens Institute of Technology to promote exchange of ideas and inspire future generations of technical innovators and entrepreneurs in the fields of chemical engineering and materials science. Established in 2026 through the generous support of Dr. Jane Li, and Dr. Norman Li - an alumnus (the first PhD in Chemical Engineering at Stevens, 1963), and member of the National Academy of Engineering - the seminar series honors Drs. Li’s strong commitment to advancing education and research in chemical engineering and materials science disciplines. It also celebrates their legacies and contributions to the broader technical and business communities.
Advanced Water Treatment for a Thirsty World
Access to clean water is fundamental to human health, yet global water scarcity continues to intensify. Meeting this challenge requires purification technologies that deliver high performance while remaining robust, scalable, and economically viable. Polymeric membranes—now the cornerstone of desalination and advanced water treatment—offer significant opportunities for improvement in permeability, selectivity, fouling resistance, durability, and manufacturability.
This seminar explores the development of next-generation thin-film composite polymeric membranes, from molecular design to commercial-scale production. It shows how polymer chemistry, interfacial polymerization, membrane architecture, surface modification, and support-layer engineering can be integrated to improveseparation performance and long-term stability. Particular attention will be given tothe critical yet often overlooked challenge of turning laboratory breakthroughs into reliable commercial products, which requires coordinated advances in chemistry, process technology, and manufacturing equipment.
Through examples drawn from membrane innovation and scale‑up, we will illustrate how scientific insight becomes practical technology capable of addressing real‑world water needs. Ultimately, advanced membranes strengthen water security and contribute directly to public and global health—demonstrating that engineering clean water is engineering for human well‑being.
ATTENDANCE
This event is open to all SES faculty, staff, students, alumni, and invited guests.
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