Rate Professor Peter Harrowell

Professional Summary: Professor Peter Harrowell

Professor Peter Harrowell is a distinguished academic at the University of Sydney, Australia, with a renowned career in theoretical chemistry and condensed matter physics. His work has significantly advanced the understanding of complex molecular systems, particularly in the areas of glass transition and disordered materials.

Academic Background and Degrees

Professor Harrowell earned his Bachelor of Science (Honours) from the University of Sydney. He subsequently completed his PhD in Chemistry at the University of Chicago, where he developed a strong foundation in theoretical approaches to chemical physics.

Research Specializations and Academic Interests

Professor Harrowell’s research focuses on the theoretical study of condensed matter, with particular emphasis on:

• Glass transition and dynamics of supercooled liquids
• Disordered systems and amorphous materials
• Computational modeling of molecular interactions
• Statistical mechanics of complex systems

His interdisciplinary approach bridges chemistry, physics, and materials science, contributing to both fundamental theory and practical applications in material design.

Career History and Appointments

Professor Harrowell has held several prestigious positions throughout his career, primarily at the University of Sydney:

• Professor of Theoretical Chemistry, School of Chemistry, University of Sydney (current)
• Associate Professor, School of Chemistry, University of Sydney
• Postdoctoral Research Fellow at various international institutions prior to joining the University of Sydney

Major Awards, Fellowships, and Honors

Professor Harrowell has been recognized for his contributions to science with several notable accolades:

• Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry (FRSC)
• Recipient of the David Craig Medal from the Australian Academy of Science (2015), awarded for outstanding contributions to chemistry

Key Publications

Professor Harrowell has authored numerous influential papers in high-impact journals. A selection of his key works includes:

1. Harrowell, P. (1991). 'Microscopic Theory of the Glass Transition.' Physical Review Letters.
2. Harrowell, P., & Widmer-Cooper, A. (2008). 'Structure and Dynamics in Glass-Forming Liquids.' Physical Review E.
3. Harrowell, P. (2012). 'The Length Scales of Dynamic Heterogeneity in Glass-Forming Liquids.' Journal of Chemical Physics.

These publications have been widely cited and form a cornerstone of contemporary research on glass transition and disordered systems.

Influence and Impact on Academic Field

Professor Harrowell’s pioneering work on the glass transition has provided critical insights into the behavior of supercooled liquids and amorphous solids, influencing both theoretical and experimental studies in condensed matter physics and materials science. His computational models and theoretical frameworks are widely adopted by researchers globally, shaping the understanding of dynamic heterogeneity in complex systems.

Public Lectures, Committees, and Editorial Contributions

Professor Harrowell is an active participant in the academic community, contributing through various roles:

• Invited speaker at numerous international conferences on glass transition and materials science
• Member of editorial boards for leading journals in chemical physics
• Contributor to scientific committees within the Australian Academy of Science and other professional bodies

His engagement in these roles underscores his commitment to advancing scientific discourse and mentoring the next generation of researchers.