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Q&A: Alumnus Solouki Finds Encouraging Educators in Chemistry Department

SoloukiUT Tyler alumnus Dr. Touradj Solouki graduated from UT Tyler in 1989 with a bachelor’s degree in chemistry. Inspired by his family and UT Tyler chemistry faculty, he would enter academia and is now a professor. Learn more about him in the following question and answer segment.

Can you please tell us about yourself?

I was born in a small town in the northwestern region of Iran, in Eastern Azerbaijan. I was blessed to have wonderful parents and childhood experiences. Education was promoted in my family as both my father and my mom were academicians. As a child, I loved playing sports and was interested in math and science. My inspiration to learn more about science was also positively influenced by my two uncles – one being a chemistry professor in Frankfurt, Germany, and the other a medical doctor in Offenbach, Germany. 

I came to Baylor from the University of Maine in 2011. My general areas of research are in bioanalytical chemistry and instrument development. I am fortunate to be involved in several interdisciplinary research areas including genomics, proteomics, lipidomics, metabolomics, petroleomics and other fields that promote collaborations with researchers across other disciplines, such as biology, computer science, engineering, medicine and physics. I enjoy teaching analytical chemistry, spectroscopy, mass spectrometry and instrumental analysis courses both at graduate and undergraduate levels.

I also have lots of wonderful memories about my undergraduate studies at UT Tyler and personal friendships that I developed while in school.  

What do you like best about the College of Arts and Sciences and UT Tyler?

Smaller class sizes at UT Tyler, as compared to bigger universities, allow students to have better access to highly qualified faculty and state-of-the-art laboratory equipment. Moreover, conveniently located in the beautiful city of Tyler, the peaceful college environment is conducive to learning. 

How did UT Tyler prepare you for career success?

I had many excellent professors at UT Tyler, such as Dr. Donald L. McClaugherty, Dr. Don Killebrew, Dr. James Stewart, Dr. David Riddle and many others who influenced my career path. 

I can never forget Dr. McClaugherty’s dedication, availability to students and kind approach towards teaching our organic chemistry, physical chemistry and advanced laboratory technique courses, as well as his encouraging words about pursuing graduate studies. In fact, while I was an undergraduate at UT Tyler, I participated in a summer research program under Dr. Thomas Franklin’s supervision at Baylor University – Dr. McLaugherty’s alma mater. It was one of my best professional decisions that influenced my personal development and career path.

What advice do you have for UT Tyler students? 

Use the opportunities that UT Tyler provides to aim high and work hard to achieve your goals. Never give up, have big dreams and strategically set smaller tasks and objectives to walk towards your goal: one step at a time. Don’t forget to have fun, help others and enjoy every step of the way! As for your scientific endeavors, utilize faculty connections to build your network and start research as early as you can.

What are your hobbies/interests?

Doing sports, science projects and being involved in community service are among my personal interests. I still enjoy playing sports including biking, soccer, swimming, table tennis and volleyball as time permits. Back when I was at UT Tyler, I won the table tennis championship as a student and, to my surprise, last year I was able to win first place in table tennis intramural games at Baylor University. However, what I love the most is to spend time with my family, especially keeping up with my highly energetic youngster twins!

Anything else you'd like to add?

I am thankful for all blessings of life including health, family, friends, colleagues and work.

#CAS

Read more from the March 2021 issue!