Credit:
Courtesy of Smita Mohanty
American Chemical Society local sections in Oklahoma have collectively named Smita Mohanty the 2026 Oklahoma Chemist of the Year. The award recognizes outstanding contributions to science and the state of Oklahoma and is considered the most prestigious award given to chemists in the state of Oklahoma. Mohanty has been a professor of chemistry at Oklahoma State University (OSU) since 2014.
Using molecular biology, protein chemistry, biophysics, and computational approaches, Mohanty’s research focuses on investigating the structure and function of proteins in human disease. This research has led to advanced understanding of the molecular basis of congenital disorders of glycosylation—rare genetic disorders that affect the healthy functioning of cells. Her other research includes insect olfaction, where her group has helped advance sustainable agriculture through understanding pheromone detection in agricultural pests, allowing for pest control strategies that are more environmentally friendly. Mohanty’s research leadership has led to establishing Oklahoma’s first high-resolution, solution-state biomolecular nuclear magnetic resonance facility.
Mohanty was recognized for her work in 2000 by receiving the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers. She has held leadership roles within the ACS Oklahoma Section and is a founding member of the OSU Equity Advocates Council. As a dedicated mentor, she has trained many undergraduate and graduate researchers throughout her career. Mohanty will receive the award at the 2026 ACS Pentasectional Meeting hosted by the MoKanOk local section in Kansas in April.
2026 American Chemical Society
