Christopher B. Murray, the Richard Perry University Professor in materials science and engineering in Penn Engineering and in chemistry in the School of Arts & Sciences, has been elected to the 2024 class of National Academy of Inventors (NAI) Fellows, one of the highest honors that can be bestowed upon academic inventors. The NAI Fellow designation recognizes individuals whose groundbreaking contributions have significantly advanced innovation, economic development, and societal welfare. Dr. Murray joins a distinguished group of inventors who are celebrated for their exceptional achievements and ongoing commitment to transforming research into real-world applications.

Dr. Murray works at the intersection of chemistry, materials science, electrical, and chemical engineering. His research explores novel ways to improve energy and environmental sustainability, information processing and human health. He works across scientific boundaries to develop new chemical methods to create building blocks at the 1- to 100-nanometer scale for materials to address these challenges. 

Dr. Murray holds 26 current and four pending patents for inventions at the nanoscale, a domain 100,000 times smaller than the width of a sheet of paper. At the nanoscale, unusual quantum mechanical properties emerge, yielding new electrical, optical, magnetic and catalytic behavior. Using Penn’s Singh Center for Nanotechnology as a crucible for discovery, he commercializes and educates across academic disciplines and maintains research partnerships with innovators in information technology, sustainable energy, aerospace, specialty chemicals, and life sciences companies. His work has not only contributed to scientific advancement but also directly improved the quality of life for individuals around the world.

Founded in 2010, the National Academy of Inventors includes over 4,600 members worldwide, including inventors, academic researchers and leaders in innovation from more than 260 institutions. The academy recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a prolific spirit of innovation through their inventions and who have contributed to economic growth and public welfare through their work. With over 1,800 fellows currently, the NAI Fellowship is considered the highest professional distinction for academic inventors.

Dr. Murray will officially be recognized during the NAI Fellows Induction Ceremony at the NAI Annual Conference in June 2025.