MIT’s Paula Hammond: Leading Nanotechnology Innovator Awarded 2023-2024 Killian Prize

Paula Hammond, a distinguished leader in the field of nanotechnology and the head of the Department of Chemical Engineering at MIT, has been honored with the prestigious James R. Killian Jr. Faculty Achievement Award for the academic year 2023-2024.

Trailblazing Research and Applications

Recognized for her groundbreaking research in the design of innovative polymers and nanomaterials, Hammond’s work has significant applications across various sectors, particularly in medicine and energy.

“Professor Hammond stands as a trailblazer in nanotechnology research, with her program encompassing everything from fundamental scientific inquiries to practical applications in healthcare and energy solutions. She has pioneered novel strategies for developing sophisticated drug delivery systems for cancer therapies and advancing non-invasive imaging technologies,” stated the award citation, presented by Laura Kiessling, chair of the Killian Award Selection Committee.

Academic Journey and Innovations

Hammond completed her undergraduate studies at MIT in 1984, worked as an engineer, and later returned to pursue her PhD, which she earned in 1993. Following a two-year postdoctoral fellowship at Harvard University, she rejoined MIT as a faculty member in 1995.

Since joining the faculty, Hammond has developed innovative methods for creating thin polymer films and various materials through layer-by-layer assembly techniques. This method allows for the construction of polymers with precisely controlled architectures by alternately applying positively and negatively charged particles to a surface.

Her laboratory employs this technique to formulate materials for diverse applications, such as drug delivery systems, regenerative medicine, non-invasive imaging technologies, and advancements in battery technology.

Cancer Research and Targeted Therapies

Among her numerous achievements is the design of nanoparticles capable of targeting tumors and releasing therapeutic agents upon interaction with cancer cells. She has also created nanoparticles and thin polymer films designed to deliver multiple drugs to specific locations while controlling their release rates. Recently, much of her research has concentrated on developing treatments and diagnostics for ovarian cancer.

“Our focus on ovarian cancer over recent years reflects our commitment to enhancing understanding and treatment options. Collaborating with colleagues, we aim to improve detection methods as well,” said Hammond, who is affiliated with MIT’s Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research.

Leadership and Community Contributions

The award committee also acknowledged Hammond’s service contributions both to MIT and the broader scientific community. She is currently a member of the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology and previously served on the U.S. Secretary of Energy Scientific Advisory Board. Within MIT, she has led initiatives on faculty diversity and served on committees addressing critical issues like sexual harassment in academia.

Hammond is among only 25 scientists elected to the National Academies of Engineering, Sciences, and Medicine, reflecting her outstanding contributions to the scientific field.

Education, Mentorship, and Recognition

Her dedication to education and mentorship has not gone unnoticed; she has received several accolades, including the Irwin Sizer Award for Significant Improvements to MIT Education and the Junior Bose Faculty Award. Additionally, she co-chaired the recent Ad Hoc Committee on Faculty Advising and Mentoring.

“The Selection Committee is thrilled to honor Professor Paula Hammond not just for her remarkable professional achievements but also for her genuine warmth, thoughtful leadership, empathy, and ethical standards. She is truly an exemplary figure in our community,” concluded the award citation.