Chemistry Professor Jordan Poler nominated for O. Max Gardner Award

Established in 1949 and presented annually by the UNC System, the O. Max Gardner Award honors a faculty member who has made “the greatest contribution to the welfare of the human race” during the current academic year. It is the system’s highest faculty honor, and nominees may come from any of its 17 institutions.

Jordan Poler, professor of chemistry in the Klein College of Science, is this year’s nominee from UNC Charlotte. Poler leads pioneering work to expand access to clean, drinkable water for communities in North Carolina and around the world. Backed by a 2024 North Carolina Innovation Grant, he is developing long‑term partnerships between UNC Charlotte and industry to advance water‑purification technologies and create new internship pathways for students.

A member of the chemistry faculty for three decades, Poler is recognized as an outstanding educator, researcher and mentor. He has twice been a finalist for the UNC Charlotte Award for Teaching Excellence, the University’s top teaching honor.

His research includes developing methods to remove per‑ and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS — commonly known as “forever chemicals” — from water. These chemicals are widespread across the state and the nation and appear in products ranging from food packaging and cosmetics to stain‑resistant fabrics and nonstick coatings.

The UNC Board of Governors will select the 2026 recipient later this semester.