The Department of Chemistry and Biomolecular Science at Clarkson University mourns the passing of Professor Artem Melman on November 25, 2021.
Professor Artem Melman, an exemplary Organic Chemist, was known by many in the scientific world as a researcher with very broad interests. Among these were exploring the kinetics and mechanisms of the reductive mobilization of iron cations from ferritin (a subject associated with iron-related disorders), investigating tridentate metal ligands specific for iron (III) cations (subject relates to treatment of diseases caused by iron overload), and synthesizing new selective agonists and antagonists of purinergic receptors. Artem examined responsive biocompatible hydrogels, worked on synthesis and structure-activity-relationship of antibiotics, contributed to bioconjugation and protein immobilization using his-tag moiety, studied signal-controlled (bio)chemical systems, and many others. Medicinal Chemistry was the umbrella over all of his projects the area of his expertise.
Aside from pure scientific interest, most of Artem’s works contained potential practical applications in drug discovery and the treatment of various medical disorders. He authored/coauthored over 80 research papers, reviews, books and book chapters. Artem’s scientific curiosity and activities led him to participate in many research projects recognized by the international scientific community. He collaborated with Israeli, Australian, European, and local SUNY scientists, as well as researchers from the University of Illinois at Chicago and from NIH. He was very generous with his scientific ideas and shared them enthusiastically with colleagues and young scientists. His deep comprehension of the detailed chemical structures of small and large biological molecules, as well as his expertise in synthesizing these molecules, helped many of his teammates, coworkers and collaborators.
Professor Melman was highly regarded by his peers and students. He was proud of his trainees’ success and advancement, and took an active role in mentoring undergraduate, graduate, postdoc, and senior researchers at Clarkson University. His passing is an immense loss to the scientific community and we will miss him greatly.
Artem Melman went through his life observing, recording, and trying to share with others the beauty of the world. An exhibit of his artistic photographs will be organized, and the dates and location will be announced.
The Department of Chemistry & Biomolecular Science aims to provide talented and motivated students with the knowledge and skills needed to achieve leadership positions in professions that span the broad spectrum of chemistry, biomolecular science and beyond.
Our state-of-the-art research and scholarly work creates an exceptional learning environment for students. We offer a unique symbiosis between graduate and undergraduate research and learning — a distinctive and differentiating feature of our BS programs. Many undergraduates get involved in cutting-edge research projects right alongside MS and PhD students who are using the latest instrumentation.
The BS in chemistry provides essential training for careers in many high-tech industries, ranging from pharmaceuticals to wearable electronics. The BS in biomolecular science provides an excellent platform for careers in biotechnology and the medical and pharmaceutical industries, and a strong foundation for pre-health students, including those who are pre-med.
We also offer MS and PhD programs in chemistry with concentrations in analytical, biochemical, physical (theoretical), organic and inorganic chemistry, as well as materials, environmental, colloid and surface chemistry.
