CV

Matthew A. Ray

SUMMARY

  • Professor of Chemistry and Independent Consultant with industrial research and management experience
  • Effective at teaching complex material in an easy to understand and engaging way
  • Project leader with strong ability to work in cross-functional teams and drive research progress
  • Excellent understanding of polymer mechanics, colloidal dynamics, and surface interactions
  • Demonstrated ability with product design, development, and commercialization

EXPERIENCE

University of Wisconsin – Stout, Department of Chemistry and Physics, Menomonie WI

Department Chair, 2023 – Present

Professor, 2019 – Present

Associate Professor, 2014 – 2019

Assistant Professor, 2010 – 2014

  •  Laboratory and lecture curriculum development for the following courses:  Chemistry of Materials, Chemistry of Polymers, Industrial Chemistry, Nanotechnology Applications, Physical Chemistry, and General Chemistry
  • Served as the Materials and Nanoscience concentration coordinator for the B.S. Applied Science program, 2017 – 2024
  • Mentored and supervised numerous undergraduate research students
  • Advisory board member for the Plastics Engineering and Manufacturing Engineering Programs
  • Industrial consulting for multiple companies through the UW-Stout Manufacturing Outreach Center in a variety of technical areas including adhesives, sealants, paints, coatings, surface chemistry and wetting, polymer coated frac sand, polymeric food additives, and materials selection

Thermo Fisher Scientific, Particle Technology Division, Indianapolis IN

R&D Manager, 2008 – 2010

  • Led a research and development group in the discovery and commercialization process of multiple products and procedures in an FDA regulated environment (medical device – ISO 13485)
  • Designed and optimized particle coupling protocols for proteins and small molecules, including monoclonal antibodies, protein A/G, and streptavidin
  • Developed a proprietary magnetic particle blocking layer to greatly reduce non-specific binding of matrix proteins leading to a new family of products
  • Managed a variety of customer driven projects to develop particle based assay components for applications including prion detection and genome sequencing

R&D Scientist, 2006 – 2008

  • Expanded upon patented technology to produce Next Generation SeraMag SpeedBead Magnetic Particles with superior size distribution and performance characteristics
  • Routinely offered technical expertise to troubleshoot internal production issues and customer application challenges, chaired customer teleconferences and traveled for on-site customer visits
  • Trained in Practical Process Improvement (PPI) and initiated a manufacturing process optimization project that resulted in a cost savings of greater than $140,000 per year

Lehigh University, Department of Chemistry and Emulsion Polymers Institute, Bethlehem PA

Research Assistant and Amstutz Fellow, 2002 – 2006

  • Discovered and published new methods for promoting self-assembly of colloidal particles and depositing the resulting particle arrays onto solid substrates in an highly ordered fashion
  • Frequently utilized organosilane self-assembled monolayers for surface functionalization
  • Designed and constructed a modified Langmuir-Blodgett trough for particle monolayer deposition
  • Proficient with emulsion and dispersion polymerization, monomer and polymer synthesis including anionic and transition metal catalyzed co-polymerization, and inorganic nanoparticle synthesis
  • Experienced in dry box and air-free Schlenk line techniques for organic and organometallic synthesis

Teaching Assistant, 2001 – 2002

  •  Led Advanced General Chemistry laboratories and lecture course recitations

EDUCATION

PhD, Chemistry, Lehigh University, Bethlehem PA, 2007

  • Dissertation: “Bottom-Up Surface Self-Assembly of Polymer Colloids to Form Patterned Arrays”
  • Advisers: Li Jia, Greg Ferguson

MS, Chemistry, Lehigh University, Bethlehem PA, 2005

  • Thesis: “Dynamic Self-Assembly of Polymer Colloids to Form Linear Patterns”
  • Adviser: Li Jia

BS, Chemistry, (magna cum laude), Bob Jones University, Greenville SC, 2001

  • Minor: Physics,  Major-Minor GPA: 4.00,  Cumulative GPA: 3.88
  • Thesis: “Synthesis of a Novel Cross-Linking Monomer for Fuel Cell Membrane Applications”
  • Adviser: George Matzko (Clemson REU-SURP Adviser: Darryl DesMarteau)

AFFILIATIONS

  • Emulsion Polymers Institute, Lehigh University
  • American Chemical Society (ACS)
  • Wisconsin Science Olympiad
  • Materials Research Society
  • Sigma Xi
  • American Association of Clinical Chemists

PUBLICATIONS AND PATENTS

  • Ray, M.A.; et.al. “Non-Setting Polyurethane Polymer, Compositions, and Methods.” US Patent, filed, 2024, Patent Pending.
  • Kunze, J.; Ray, M.A.  “Impact of Personal Care Products on Tensile Strength and Structure of Hair.” University of Wisconsin-Stout Journal of Student Research, 2023, 21, 31-53. Link
  • Pomeranke, W.; Ray, M.A.  “Understanding the Effects of High Temperature Stress and Weathering on Concrete Strength.” University of Wisconsin-Stout Journal of Student Research, 2022, 20, 43-54.  Link
  • Holzman, N.J.; Ray, M.A.  “Photopolymerization of Methylmethacrylate: An Inexpensive, Open-Source Approach for the Undergraduate Lab.” University of Wisconsin-Stout Journal of Student Research, 2015, 15, 152-164.  Link
  • Jia, L.; Ray, M.A. “Method of Transferring Patterned Non-Densely Packed Interfacial Particle Films onto Substrates.” US Patent 7,939,133, May 10, 2011.  Link
  • Ray, M.A.; Shewmon, N; Bhawalkar, S.; Jia, L.; Yang, Y.; Daniels, E.S.   “Submicron Surface Patterning Using Interfacial Colloidal Particle Self-Assembly.”  Langmuir, 2009, 25, 7265-7270.  Link
  • Ray, M.A.; Jia, L.  “Micropatterning by Non-Densely Packed Interfacial Colloidal Crystals.” Adv. Mater, 2007, 19, 2020-2022.  Link
  • Ray, M.A.; Kim, H.; Jia, L. “Dynamic Self-Assembly of Polymer Colloids to Form Linear Patterns.”  Langmuir, 2005, 21, 4786-4789.  Link

SELECTED PRESENTATIONS

In addition to the external presentations listed below, my research group students have presented 22 Research Day posters (details further below) and my students doing in-class research have presented 58 STEM EXPO posters (Link) at University of Wisconsin-Stout.

  • Hasan, J.; Esmaeili, F.; Cassell, N.; Kannel, J.; Ray, M.A. “Microscale Synthesis of Fusible Alloys and Low-Melting-Point Metallic Nanoparticles.” PSG4-106, National Conference on Undergraduate Research, Eau Claire WI, April 14, 2023.
  • Kunze, J.; Ray, M.A.  “Impact of Personal Care Products on Tensile Strength and Structure of Hair.” PSD4-104, National Conference on Undergraduate Research, Eau Claire WI, April 13, 2023.
  • Kunze, J.; Ray, M.A.  “Impact of Personal Care Products on Tensile Strength and Structure of Hair.” 19th Annual Research in the Rotunda, Madison WI, March 8, 2023.
  • Kunze, J.; Ray, M.A.  “Impacts on Hair of Common Chemical Components of Shampoo.”  McNair Research Summit 2022, Superior WI, August 11, 2022.
  • Wentz, M.; Rodriguez, G.; Seaver, J.E.; Ray, M.A.  “Developing Cross-Institutional Research Partnerships Focusing on The UN Sustainable Development Goals.” Polytechnic Summit 2019, Menomonie WI, June 3, 2019.
  • Manuele, D.; Mkwandwire, H.; Miller, J,; Doctor, C.; Hullen, E.; Finder, B.; Lacksonen, T.; Ray, M.A. “Increasing the Efficiency of a Hydroelectric Generator Built and Designed for Malawi Africa.”  16th Annual Research in the Rotunda, Madison WI, April 17, 2019.  Link
  • Hirsch, T.; O’Brien, R.; Deeg, N.; Ray, M.A.; Kramschuster, A.  “Color Matching for Low Volume Plastics Processing.”  SPE Poster Number: 2018-UG39.  Society of Plastics Engineers Annual Technical Conference, Orlando FL, May 7-10, 2018.
  • Manuele, D.; Ray, M.A.; Finder, B.; Lacksonen, T. “Increasing the Efficiency of a Hydroelectric Generator Produced and Operated in Malawi Africa.” (Devon Manuele won 1st prize in the Student Researchers Competition, Engineering and Technology category).  18th National Role Models Conference, Washington DC, Sept. 29-Oct. 1, 2017.
  • Moehring, N.; Marra-Mateus, F.; Ray, M.A.  “Photoluminescent Borosilicate Glass:  A Material with a Bright Future.”  Regional Materials and Manufacturing Network (RM2N) Fall Symposium, Menomonie WI, Oct. 17, 2016.
  • Dahl, J.; Mikelson, H.; Ray, M.A; “Nanotechnology in Western Wisconsin” The West Side, hosted by Rich Kremer, Wisconsin Public Radio, Eau Claire WI, May 11, 2015.
  • Holzman, N.; Ray, M.A.  “Photochemistry for Paupers: The Quest to Fabricate a Photochemical Reactor.”  Upper Midwest Regional Honors Conference, Waverly IA, April 24-26, 2014.
  • Raethke, E.; Ray, M.A.  “Protein Assisted Particle Self-Assembly for Multiplex Analyte Detection.” UW System Symposium for Undergraduate Research and Creative Activity, Milwaukee WI, April 11, 2014.
  • Marra-Mateus, F.; Ray, M.A.  “Photoluminescent Borosilicate Glass:  A Material with a Bright Future.”  7th Annual Wisconsin Science and Technology Symposium, Eau Claire WI, July 21-22, 2014.
  • Barrix, C.; Ramirez, D.; Woellner, M.; Ray, M.A.  “From Synthesis to Injection Molding, a 360° Polymer Lab Experience.” UW System Office of Professional and Instructional Development (OPID) 2014 Spring Conference, Green Lake WI, April 18, 2014.
  • Barrix, C.; Ramirez, D.; Woellner, M.; Ray, M.A.  “From Synthesis to Injection Molding, a 360° Polymer Lab Experience.” 40th UW System Chemistry Faculties Meeting, River Falls WI, Oct. 25, 2013.
  • Yungbauer, T.; Smith, K.; Woellner, M.; Ray, M.A. “Protein Assisted Particle Self-Assembly for Multiplex Analyte Detection.” 8th Annual Minnesota Nanotechnology Workshop, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis MN, November 7-8, 2012.
  • Doyle, J.; Ray, M.; Ouyang, A.; Benton, B.; Bell, P.A. “High throughput proteomic applications using protein A/G magnetic beads.”  Abstract 4877, DOI: 10.1158/1538-7445.AM2011-4877, American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) 102nd Annual Meeting, Orlando FL, April 2‐6, 2011.  Link
  • Ray, M.A.; Kim, H.; Jia, L. “Dynamic Self-Assembly of Polymer Colloids To Form Linear Patterns.” 230th ACS National Meeting, Washington DC, Aug. 28-Sept. 1, 2005, COLL-415.  Link
  • Ray, M.A.; Kim, H.; Jia, L. “Dynamic Self-Assembly of Polymer Colloids To Form Linear Patterns.”  Gordon Research Conference on Polymer Colloids, Tilton NH, July 3-8, 2005.
  • Ray, M.A.; Jia, L. “Patterning of Functionalized Polymer Colloids by Self-Assembly.”  228th ACS National Meeting, Philadelphia PA, Aug. 22-26, 2004, COLL-151.  Link

SELECTED PRESENTATIONS AT UW-STOUT

  • Burritt, J.; Ray, M.A.; Zimmerman, T. “The 2023 Nobel Prizes:  The Basic Science of Today is the Real-World Applications of Tomorrow.”  University of Wisconsin-Stout, Menomonie WI, November 14, 2023.
  • Cluphf, A.; Harrison, W.; Ray, M.A.; Rodriguez, G.; Scott, S.; Shiell, T. “Free Speech at UW-Stout – A Panel Discussion.”  University of Wisconsin-Stout, Menomonie WI, October 18, 2023.
  • Patterson, M.; Ray, M.A. “Living in a Material World.” Applied Science Seminar, University of Wisconsin-Stout, Menomonie WI, November 20, 2014.

RESEARCH DAY POSTER PRESENTATIONS AT UW-STOUT

  • Hasan, J.; Esmaeili, F.; Cassell, N.; Kannel, J.; Ray, M.A. “Microscale Synthesis of Fusible Alloys and Low-Melting-Point Metallic Nanoparticles.” UW-Stout Research Day, 2023
  • Kunze, J.; Ray, M.A. “Impact of Personal Care Products on Tensile Strength and Structure of Hair (revised).” UW-Stout Research Day, 2023
  • Kunze, J.; Ray, M.A. “Impact of Personal Care Products on Tensile Strength and Structure of Hair.” UW-Stout Research Day, 2022
  • Pomeranke, W.; Ray, M.A. “Understanding the Effects of High Temperature Stress and Weathering on Concrete Strength.” UW-Stout Research Day, 2021.
  • Cassell, N.; Ray, M.A. “Optimizations of Metallurgical Polishing Techniques for Soft Metals.” UW-Stout Research Day, 2021.
  • Manuele, D.; Ray, M.A.; Finder, B.; Lacksonen, T. “Increasing the Efficiency of a Hydroelectric Generator Produced and Operated in Malawi Africa.” UW-Stout Research Day, 2018.
  • Moehring, N.; Ray, M.A. “Bridging the Gap with Multiwall Carbon Nanotubes” UW-Stout Research Day, 2018.
  • Ignasiak, K.; Ray, M.A. “Toxicity and Function of Hydrophobic Catings.” UW-Stout Research Day, 2018.
  • Hirsch, T.; Pontillo-Verrastro, V.; Ray, M.A. “Color Matching in Photopolymer 3D Printing using CMYK Color Model.” UW-Stout Research Day, 2017.
  • Lindsay, R.M.; Sinkovits, D.W.; Zimmerman, T.A.; Ray, M.A. “MD Simulations of the Mesostructure Phase of Microspheres at an Air-Water Interface.” UW-Stout Research Day, 2017.
  • Loes, M.; Ray, M.A.; Patterson, M. “Going for Silver: Photo-reduction of Silver Formulated as an Introductory-level Laboratory Procedure.” UW-Stout Research Day, 2017.
  • Moehring, N.; Marra-Mateus, F.; Maury, K.; Ray, M.A. “Science as Art: Analysis of Transition Metal Fluorescence for Ceramic Glazes.” UW-Stout Research Day, 2017.
  • Siprien, C.; Ray, M.A. “Smart Temperature Regulating Fabrics: A Feasibility Study.” UW-Stout Research Day, 2017.
  • Fuhrman, K.; Boatman, E.; Ray, M.A. “Polyurethanes: Hardness and Crystallinity Analysis.” UW-Stout Research Day, 2016.
  • Ellie Raethke, E.; Ray, M.A.; “Identification of Lead in Household Paint: A Method Comparison.” UW-Stout Research Day, April 29, 2014.
  • Holzman, N.; Ray, M.A.; “Photochemistry for Paupers: The Quest to Fabricate a Photochemical Reactor” UW-Stout Research Day, April 29, 2014.
  • Marra-Mateus, F.; Ray, M.A.; “Fluorescent Art Studio Glazes” UW-Stout Research Day, April 29, 2014.
  • Raethke, E.; Barrix, C.; Yungbauer, T.; Smith, K.; Woellner, M.; Ray, M.A. “Protein Assisted Particle Self-Assembly for Multiplex Analyte Detection.” UW-Stout Research Day, April 30, 2013.
  • Bouc, M.; Ray, M.A.; Grant, J. “Horticultural Hydrogel to Buffer pH of Soil.” UW-Stout Research Day, April 30, 2013.
  • Yungbauer, T.; Barrix, C.; Yungbauer, T.; Smith, K.; Woellner, M.; Ray, M.A. “Protein Assisted Particle Self-Assembly for Multiplex Analyte Detection.” UW-Stout Research Day, April 24, 2012.
  • Barrix, C.; Ray, M.A. “Suspension Polymerization of Styrene.” UW-Stout Research Day, April 24, 2012.
  • Smith, K.; Ray, M.A. “Generation of a Color Coded Particle Library for Use in Multiplex Immunoassays.” UW-Stout Research Day, April 24, 2012.

SELECTED CONFERENCES AND WORKSHOPS ATTENDED

  • 2023 UW System Chemistry Faculties Meeting, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison WI, November 3-4, 2023
  • Baldrige Introduction Workshop, presented by Liz Menzer, Executive Director, Wisconsin Center for Performance Excellence and Vice Chair, Baldrige Alliance for Performance Excellence and JoAnn Sternke, former Pewaukee School District Superintendent, UW-Stout, Menomonie WI, Sept. 30, 2023
  • AFIT Summer Institute, Finding the Future First: Building Breakthrough Innovations in Higher Education, Lead Learning Partner: Larry Keeley, Innovation Scientist, Westin Denver Downtown, Denver CO, July 12-15, 2023
  • National Conference on Undergraduate Research, University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire, Eau Claire WI, April 13, 2023
  • Research in the Rotunda, Capitol Rotunda, Madison WI, March 8, 2023
  • Mentoring and Supporting New Faculty Members: A Workshop, presented by Dr. Rebecca Brent, President of Education Designs Inc. and Dr. Richard M. Felder, Professor Emeritus, North Carolina State University, hosted by the UW-Stout Nakatani Teaching and Learning Center, Menomonie WI, January 12, 2023
  • Polytechnic Summit 2019, University of Wisconsin-Stout, Menomonie WI, June 3-5, 2019
  • Effective Teaching: A Workshop, presented by Dr. Rebecca Brent, President of Education Designs Inc. and Dr. Richard M. Felder, Professor Emeritus, North Carolina State University, hosted by the UW-Stout Nakatani Teaching and Learning Center, Menomonie WI, January 16-17, 2019
  • Global Partners European Alliance Research Symposium, Coventry University, Coventry, United Kingdom, October 23, 2018
  • 42nd UW System Chemistry Faculties Meeting, Madison WI, October 23–24, 2015
  • 41st UW System Chemistry Faculties Meeting, La Crosse WI, October 10–11, 2014
  • Learning Community Summer Workshop, Menomonie WI, August 21, 2014
  • 7th Annual Wisconsin Science and Technology Symposium, Eau Claire WI, July 21-22, 2014
  • Transforming Student Learning with Undergraduate Research Workshop, Research Skill Development Framework, presented by Dr. John Willison from the University of Adelaide, hosted by the UW-Stout Nakatani Teaching and Learning Center, Menomonie WI, July 2, 2014
  • UW System Office of Professional and Instructional Development (OPID) 2014 Spring Conference, Green Lake WI, April 17-18, 2014
  • 40th UW System Chemistry Faculties Meeting, River Falls WI, Oct. 25, 2013
  • Learning Community Summer Workshop, Menomonie WI, August 22, 2013
  • 8th Annual Minnesota Nanotechnology Workshop, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis MN, November 7-8, 2012
  • Learning Community Summer Workshop, Menomonie WI, August 23, 2012
  • Grant-seeking Without Grief, Grant Writing Workshop, presented by Lynn Miner, University of Wisconsin-Stout, Menomonie WI, January 19, 2012
  • 7th Annual Minnesota Nanotechnology Workshop, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis MN, November 15, 2011
  • 38th UW System Chemistry Faculties Meeting, Menomonie WI, Oct. 21-22, 2011
  • 6th Annual Minnesota Nanotechnology Workshop, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis MN, October 7-8, 2010
  • Opening Workshop for New STEM Educators:  Inclusive Teaching Methods, Clearwaters Hotel & Convention Center, Marshfield WI, Sept. 30-Oct. 1, 2010
  • New Instructor Workshop, University of Wisconsin-Stout, Menomonie WI, August 17-19, 2010
  • Emulsion Polymers Liaison Program Annual Review Meeting and Workshop, Lehigh University, Bethlehem PA, May 6-7, 2010
  • Supervising and Managing People Workshop, presented by Phil Thompson, Comprehensive Performance Systems, hosted by the Indiana Chamber of Commerce, Indianapolis IN, Sept. 18-19, 2008
  • Harnessing New Technology for Clinical Diagnostics, 39th Annual AACC Oak Ridge Conference, St. Louis MO, April 19-20, 2007
  • Enabling Targeted Therapies and Non-Invasive Imaging, 7th Annual Targeted Nanodelivery Conference, presented by Cambridge Health Institute, Baltimore MD, Oct. 12-13, 2006
  • 230th ACS National Meeting, Washington DC, Aug. 28-Sept. 1, 2005
  • Gordon Research Conference on Polymer Colloids, Tilton NH, July 3-8, 2005
  • 228th ACS National Meeting, Philadelphia PA, Aug. 22-26, 2004

SELECTED SEMINARS AND WEBINARS ATTENDED

  • Introduction to Design Thinking, presented by Bill Digneit, Director of SISU at Northern Michigan University (badge), Menomonie WI, April 22, 2024
  • Building the Business Case for Innovation Challenges, Hackathons, and Shark Tanks, presented by Coby Skonord, CEO & Co-Founder at Ideawake, webinar, March 5, 2024
  • Think Like a Futurist – Virtual Workshop, presented by Glen Hiemstra, founder of Futurist.com, AFIT Webinar, June 14, 2023
  • What Americans Really Want … Really, presented by Frank Luntz, National Political Analyst, presented by UW-Madison’s Tommy G. Thompson Center for Public Leadership, Raw Deal, Menomonie WI, April 4, 2023
  • How Free Speech Saved Democracy, presented by Chris Finan, Director of the National Coalition Against Censorship, hosted by the UW-Stout Menard Center for the Study of Institutions and Innovation, Menomonie WI, Oct. 19, 2022
  • Polymeric Coatings: From Fundamentals to Future Technologies, presented by Marek W. Urban of Clemson University, ACS Webinar, June 2, 2022
  • Materials to the Rescue: Innovation in Materials and Manufacturing, Responding to the COVID Crisis, virtual webinar event hosted by WiSys and the Regional Materials and Manufacturing Network (RM2N), Feb 23-25, 2021
  • Face Masks: Materials, Disinfection, and Reuse During COVID-19, presented by Supratik Guha of University of Chicago and Argonne National Laboratory and Yi Cui of Stanford University, ACS Webinar, May 14, 2020
  • Understanding the Scientific and Medical Aspects of the Pandemic, presented by Jonathan Lai of Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Raymond Forslund, Syner-G, ACS Webinar, May 13, 2020
  • The Material World of Color: Chemical Characterization of Pigments in Art, presented by Barbara Berrie from the National Gallery of Art, ACS Webinar, May 8, 2020
  • Safer Chemistry Education at Home, presented by Debbie Decker of UC Davis, Jennifer Bishoff of Frostburg University, and Ralph Stuart of Keene State College, ACS Webinar, May 7, 2020
  • Creating an Environment for Innovation at 3M, presented by Dr. Larry Wendling, Vice President 3M Corporate Research Laboratory, 3M Innovation Center in collaboration with the Minnesota section of ACS, Maplewood MN, January 14, 2014
  • 3M Menomonie, Society of Manufacturing Engineers Tour, December 12, 2013

TRAININGS

  • Question, Persuade, and Respond (QPR) Suicide Prevention training, presented by Student Counceling Center, UW-Stout, February 22, 2024
  • American Red Cross Adult CPR with AED training, instructors Mary LaRue and James Uhlir, UW-Stout, January 17, 2023

AWARDS

  • Outstanding Teaching Award, UW-Stout 2022 – 2023
  • University of Wisconsin Libraries Research Fellow, UW-Stout 2011
  • Ticona Award, awarded for excellence in polymer research, Lehigh University 2005
  • Edward D. Amstutz Fellowship, awarded for academic performance, 2004 – 2006
  • Emulsion Polymers Institute’s Industrial Liaison Program Poster Award, first prize, 2005
  • American Chemical Society Outstanding Senior Chemistry Major, 2001
  • American Institute of Chemists Foundation Student Award, 2001

ADVISORY BOARDS

  • Plastics Engineering Program, UW-Stout (2012 – present)
  • Manufacturing Engineering Program, UW-Stout (2011 – present)
  • Applied Science Program, UW-Stout (2017 – 2024)

COMMITTEES

  • Faculty Senate, UW-Stout
    • Representative for the Department of Chemistry and Physics (2015 – 2018)
    • Alternate Representative for CSTEM (2013 – 2014)
  • School Structure Ad-hoc Committee (2022 – 2023)
  • Department of Chemistry and Physics, UW-Stout
    • Curriculum Committee (2022 – present)
    • Personnel Committee (2014 – present)
    • Scheduling Committee (2012 – present)
    • Hiring Committee (2011 – 2014; 2016 – 2017)

OUTREACH

  • Science Olympiad
    • National, Division C – Chemistry Lab Event Co-Supervisor (2016)  (supervised competitive event)
    • Wisconsin State, Division C – Chemistry Lab Event Supervisor (2016; 2019; 2021; 2022; 2024)  (authored state exam and supervised competitive event)
    • Wisconsin State, Division C – Technical Problem-Solving Event Supervisor (2014)  (authored state exam and supervised competitive event)
    • Wisconsin Regional, Menomonie H.S., Division C – Materials Science Event Supervisor (2014)  (authored exam and supervised competitive event)
  • STEPS (Science, Technology, & Engineering Preview Summer Camp)
    • Chemistry Technical Activity Instructor (2013 – 2019) – Taught over 1100 campers – in groups of 10 – 1.5 hour lessons with hands on activities in electrochemistry and chemical thermodynamics
  • STEM Summer Camp, UW-Stout
    • Chemistry Instructor – Drones (2017)
    • Chemistry Instructor – Rockets (2016)
  • Stout Proud PreCollege Summer Camp, UW-Stout
    • Materials Science and Chemistry Instructor (2015; 2016)
  • FIRST LEGO League Challenge (2020)
    • “Materials Science Expert” for Team #23260, O.A.M – Nerds On A Mission, LaCrosse, WI
  • Wisconsin Science Festival (2013; 2014)
  • Chemistry Demonstration Outreach Programs
    • 2012 Wisconsin State Science Olympiad, March 31, 2012
    • Menomonie High School, December 9, 2011
    • 2011 Wisconsin State Science Olympiad, April 2, 2011
    • Colfax Middle School – with Professor Emeritus Marty Ondrus, demonstration program for 60 students visiting campus, May 20, 2011
  • Tutoring – Numerous two-hour tutoring sessions, Menomonie High School Science Olympiad:
    • Chemistry Team, Fall 2014 – Spring 2015
    • Chemistry and Materials Science Teams, Fall 2013 – Spring 2014
    • Chemistry Team and Materials Science Teams, Spring 2013
    • Chemistry Team, Fall 2012
    • Chemistry Team, competed in the National SO Competition, Spring 2011

DETAIL – UW-Stout (Reverse Chronological Order)

2024 – 2025

TEACHING – Fall – CHEM-241

RESEARCH – Reese Hufnagel

SERVICE – Chair of Department of Chemistry and Physics

LEAPP Implementation Team

Advisory Boards: B.S. Manufacturing Engineering, B.S. Plastics Engineering

2023 – 2024

TEACHING – Fall – CHEM-241, WinTerm – CHEM-241, Spring – CHEM-241, CHEM-245, Summer – CHEM-241

AWARD – Outstanding Teaching Award 2022-23

Thanks for the summer semester Dr. Ray! I enjoyed your class very much. I really appreciate the energy you bring to your lectures. I really feel like I learned something in this online class, which is something I cannot say for many of the online classes I’ve taken.

C.Z. CHEM-241 Chemistry of Materials, Summer 2024

RESEARCH – Farhang Esmaeili, Hudson Jahntz, Nicholas Averbeck

SERVICE – Chair of Department of Chemistry and Physics

Faculty Representative on the Inaugural UW-Stout Think Tank

LEAPP Development Team

LEAPP Implementation Team

Concentration Coordinator, Materials and Nanoscience, B.S. Applied Science

Advisory Boards: B.S. Applied Science, B.S. Manufacturing Engineering, B.S. Plastics Engineering

2022 – 2023

TEACHING – Fall – CHEM-365, CHEM-241, CHEM-135 LAB ONLY, Spring – CHEM-245, CHEM-241, Summer – CHEM-241

RESEARCH – Junaid Hasan, Farhang Esmaeili, Jordan Kunze, Nick Riley, Morgan Gale

SERVICE – Concentration Coordinator, Materials and Nanoscience, B.S. Applied Science

Advisory Boards: B.S. Applied Science, B.S. Manufacturing Engineering, B.S. Plastics Engineering

School Structure Ad-hoc Committee

Faculty Representative on the Inaugural UW-Stout Think Tank

Department of Chemistry and Physics: Curriculum Committee, Personnel Committee, Scheduling Committee

2021 – 2022

TEACHING – Fall – CHEM-241, CHEM-135, CHEM-489, Spring – CHEM-245, CHEM-241, Summer – CHEM-241

RESEARCH – Jordan Kunze, Junaid Hasan, Nichole Cassell, William Pomeranke

SERVICE – Wisconsin Science Olympiad – Chem Lab Event Supervisor (authored state exam and ran competitive event)

Concentration Coordinator, Materials and Nanoscience, B.S. Applied Science

Advisory Boards: B.S. Applied Science, B.S. Manufacturing Engineering, B.S. Plastics Engineering

Department of Chemistry and Physics: Personnel Committee, Scheduling Committee

2020 – 2021

TEACHING – Fall – CHEM-365, CHEM-241, CHEM-135 LAB ONLY, Spring – CHEM-245, CHEM-241, CHEM-489, Summer – CHEM-241

“I wanted to take this moment and say thank you for all that you do for our students.

A student in one of your courses highlighted your excellent work and with everything going on, I wanted to make sure and take a moment to let you know.”

Interim Provost and Vice Chancellor, University of Wisconsin-Stout, November 20, 2020

RESEARCH – Nichole Cassell, William Pomeranke

SERVICE – Wisconsin Science Olympiad – Chem Lab Event Supervisor (authored state exam and ran competitive online event)

Concentration Coordinator, Materials and Nanoscience, B.S. Applied Science

Advisory Boards: B.S. Applied Science, B.S. Manufacturing Engineering, B.S. Plastics Engineering

Department of Chemistry and Physics: Personnel Committee, Scheduling Committee

2019 – 2020

TEACHING – Fall – CHEM-341, CHEM-135, Spring – CHEM-325, CHEM-341, Summer – CHEM-341

“In my composition class, I asked students to do a short writing exercise about someone they met at Stout who impressed them. Here is one of the responses. 😊

One person who impressed me was my Chemistry of Polymers professor this semester. Dr. Ray was able to teach the students what they needed to succeed while making it one of the most fun and interesting classes I have ever taken. He has also been able to do a complete transition online that is super effective and I was very impressed at how fast he was able to do it.“

Student comment shared by Professor of English and Philosophy, University of Wisconsin-Stout, April 28, 2020

RESEARCH – Benjamin Lind, Jake Nelson, Nichole Cassell

SERVICE – Chemistry Technical Activity Instructor – STEPS – Science, Technology, & Engineering Preview Summer Camp

Concentration Coordinator, Materials and Nanoscience, B.S. Applied Science

Advisory Boards: B.S. Applied Science, B.S. Manufacturing Engineering, B.S. Plastics Engineering

Department of Chemistry and Physics: Personnel Committee, Scheduling Committee

2018 – 2019

TEACHING – Fall – CHEM-365, CHEM-341, CHEM-135 LAB ONLY, Spring – CHEM-325, CHEM-341, Summer – CHEM-341

“Dr. Ray,

I am the Engineering Manager at ITW Deltar Fasteners. I was recently at UW Stout to conduct interviews for our summer intern position. One of my interview questions was “Tell us about the best professor or supervisor you have had and what made them the best?”. Your name was mentioned numerous times by the students we were interviewing. I was intrigued by the common responses. Students are impacted by numerous teachers and coaches through their life so I was surprised to hear such common responses.

One of our main goals at ITW is employee recognition. It is a great program where we personally recognize employees for their contributions to our organization. Other employees have a chance to see “What good looks like”. I wanted to take a moment to recognize the positive impact you have had on these students. They described a professor that cared about his students on a personal level, challenged them and made learning fun.

Congratulations on making a positive impact on our future engineers and leaders in our businesses and communities.”

Engineering Manager, ITW Deltar Fasteners, October 5, 2018

RESEARCH – Devon Manuele, Joseph Kannel

SERVICE – Chemistry Technical Activity Instructor – STEPS – Science, Technology, & Engineering Preview Summer Camp

Concentration Coordinator, Materials and Nanoscience, B.S. Applied Science

Advisory Boards: B.S. Applied Science, B.S. Manufacturing Engineering, B.S. Plastics Engineering

Department of Chemistry and Physics: Personnel Committee, Scheduling Committee

2017 – 2018

TEACHING – Fall – CHEM-341 (Including one section of CI), Spring – CHEM-325, CHEM-341, CHEM-489, Summer – CHEM-341

RESEARCH – Nicole Moehring, Kayla Ignasiak, Devon Manuele, Thomas Hirsch, Michael Loes

SERVICE – Faculty Senate – Representative for the Department of Chemistry and Physics

STEPS – Chemistry Technical Activity Instructor – Science, Technology, & Engineering Preview Summer Camp

Concentration Coordinator, Materials and Nanoscience, B.S. Applied Science

Advisory Boards: B.S. Applied Science, B.S. Manufacturing Engineering, B.S. Plastics Engineering

Faculty Senate Representative for the Department of Chemistry and Physics

Department of Chemistry and Physics: Personnel Committee, Scheduling Committee

Faculty Co-Sponsor – UW-Stout Materials Research Society

2016 – 2017

TEACHING – Fall – CHEM-135, CHEM-341, CHEM-489, Spring – CHEM-135, CHEM-325, Summer – CHEM-341

RESEARCH – Roy Lindsay, Charlo Siprien, Michael Loes, Nicole Moehring, Thomas Hirsch, Tommy Palof

College Collaboration Grants

2016-17 An Aesthetic Approach to Photopolymer Chemistry – Vincent Pontillo-Verrastro, Matthew Ray, Thomas Hirsch

2016-17 Technology Enabling Expression: Bridging the Gap between Materials Chemistry and Studio Ceramics – Matthew Ray, Kate Maury, Nicole Moehring, (Shane Medin, Trever Foss, Becca Handy)

SERVICE – Faculty Senate – Representative for the Department of Chemistry and Physics

STEPS Chemistry Technical Activity Instructor – Science, Technology, & Engineering Preview Summer Camp

“As you know, the chemistry class continues to be one of the favorites – you are certainly an asset to our program!”

Director, STEPS for Girls, University of Wisconsin-Stout, March 8, 2017

STEM Summer Camp UW-Stout – Chemistry Instructor – Drones (Summer 2017)

Advisory Boards: B.S. Manufacturing Engineering, B.S. Plastics Engineering

Faculty Senate Representative for the Department of Chemistry and Physics

Department of Chemistry and Physics: Hiring Committee, Personnel Committee, Scheduling Committee

Faculty Co-Sponsor – UW-Stout Materials Research Society

2015 – 2016

TEACHING – Fall – CHEM-341(Including one section of CI), CHEM-301/303, CHEM-489, Spring – CHEM-325, NANO-401, CHEM-489, Summer – CHEM-341

RESEARCH – Kevin Fuhrman, Ellie Raethke, Thomas Hirsch

SERVICE – National Science Olympiad – Chem Lab Event Co-Supervisor (ran competitive event)

Wisconsin Science Olympiad – Chem Lab Event Supervisor (authored state exam and ran competitive event)

Faculty Senate – Representative for the Department of Chemistry and Physics

Stout Proud PreCollege Summer Camp – UW-Stout – Chemistry Instructor

STEPS Chemistry Technical Activity Instructor – Science, Technology, & Engineering Preview Summer Camp

STEM Summer Camp UW-Stout – Chemistry Instructor – Rockets (Summer 2016)

“Dr. Ray-

The campers were quite impressed with your presentation today—they’ve been talking about it all night!”

Outreach Program Manager, University of Wisconsin-Stout, June 20, 2016

Advisory Boards: B.S. Manufacturing Engineering, B.S. Plastics Engineering

Faculty Senate Representative for the Department of Chemistry and Physics

Department of Chemistry and Physics: Hiring Committee, Personnel Committee, Scheduling Committee

Faculty Co-Sponsor – UW-Stout Materials Research Society

2014 – 2015

TEACHING – Fall – CHEM-135 (Including Engineering Learning Community with MFGT-150), CHEM-341 (Including one section of CI), Spring – CHEM-325, Summer – CHEM-341

RESEARCH – Ellie Raethke, Felipe Mara-Mateus, Thomas Hirsch

SERVICE – Chemistry Technical Activity Instructor – STEPS – Science, Technology, & Engineering Preview Summer Camp

“just going through the results of this year’s STEPS surveys that we finally received and I am happy to tell you that you were the highlight again. Thanks for being such an awesome part of the program!”

Director, STEPS for Girls, University of Wisconsin-Stout, November 3, 2015

Advisory Boards: B.S. Manufacturing Engineering, B.S. Plastics Engineering

Department of Chemistry and Physics: Personnel Committee, Scheduling Committee

Faculty Co-Sponsor – UW-Stout Materials Research Society

2013 – 2014

TEACHING – Fall – CHEM-135 (Including Engineering Learning Community with MFGT-150), CHEM-301/303, Spring – CHEM-325, CHEM-341, CHEM-489, Summer – CHEM-341

RESEARCH – Ellie Raethke, Felipe Mara-Mateus, Noah Holzman, Clayton Barix

SERVICE – Wisconsin Science Olympiad – Chem Lab Event Supervisor (authored state exam and ran competitive event)

STEPS Chemistry Technical Activity Instructor – STEPS – Science, Technology, & Engineering Preview Summer Camp

Advisory Boards: B.S. Manufacturing Engineering, B.S. Plastics Engineering

Faculty Senate Alternate Representative for CSTEM

Department of Chemistry and Physics: Hiring Committee, Scheduling Committee

Faculty Co-Sponsor – UW-Stout Materials Research Society

2012 – 2013

TEACHING – Fall – CHEM-135 (Including Engineering Learning Community with MFGT-150), Spring – CHEM-325, CHEM-241, BIO-470, Summer – CHEM-341

RESEARCH – Ellie Raethke, Clayton Barrix, Tom Yungbauer, Mitchell Woellner

SERVICE – Chemistry Technical Activity Instructor – STEPS – Science, Technology, & Engineering Preview Summer Camp

Overall, 88% of campers rated Chemistry as Excellent. It was the highest rated Technical Activity.

“From the qualitative data…41% of campers cited Chemistry as their favorite activity. The cited the experiments, the instructor and the new experiences as the primary reasons. Chemistry was the most frequently mentioned technical activity.

There was a 6% increase overall in the number of campers reporting that they plan to go to college and a 13% increase in the number of cmapers reporting that they would like to be an engineer or scientist one day.”

STEPS Report 2013

Advisory Boards: B.S. Manufacturing Engineering, B.S. Plastics Engineering

Department of Chemistry: Hiring Committee, Scheduling Committee

Faculty Co-Sponsor – UW-Stout Materials Research Society

2011 – 2012

TEACHING – Fall – CHEM-135, CHEM-301/303, Spring – CHEM-341, CHEM-325, Summer – CHEM-341

RESEARCH – Clayton Barrix, Tom Yungbauer, Kelvin Smith, Mitchell Woellner, Amy York

SERVICE – Advisory Board: B.S. Manufacturing Engineering

Department of Chemistry: Hiring Committee

2010 – 2011

TEACHING – Fall – CHEM-135, CHEM-115 LAB ONLY, Spring – CHEM-341

RESEARCH – Amy York

SERVICE – Department of Chemistry: Hiring Committee