Modeling discovery: the Richard Weaver Computational Lab dedication

When asked what her ideal lab space would look like, Rose Cersonsky, the Mike and Virginia Conway Assistant Professor of Chemical and Biological Engineering answered “a space with a lot of light, and enough room for my students to work and collaborate.” 

Earlier this month, we welcomed Richard (PhD ChemE ’64) and Barbara Weaver (BS Education ‘57), and their son David back to Madison for the Richard Weaver Computational Lab of Multiscale Simulation ribbon cutting ceremony. Thanks to the Weaver’s generosity and deep commitment to the importance of research, the Cersonsky research group now has a computational lab with large windows, low dividers that double as whiteboards, and state-of-the-art computers that encourage the group to gather easily and discuss their research. 

Cersonsky and her group use data science and simulation to study molecular systems with complex and evolving phase behavior. They tackle important questions in computational chemical and materials sciences, with the goal of advancing knowledge and contributing to real-world solutions. The group is committed to knowledge-sharing and follows FAIR data principles—making data Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable. 

“We will use this space to work on applying and developing cutting-edge advancements in artificial intelligence and machine-learning to simulate and understand complex, multiscale molecular problems,” states Cersonsky. “Our work is driven by fundamental principles and foundational discovery, and has an impact in the fields of energy storage, multifunctional metamaterials, and pharmaceutical development.” 

R. Byron Bird Department Chair and Karen and William Monfre Professor Brian Pfleger spoke of the Weaver’s friendship that extends beyond the department. “Their generosity has impacted many aspects of the university’s mission including the College of Engineering, and the School of Education, where Barbara received her degree in Occupational Therapy. Closer to home, the Weaver family has also invested in shaping the future of chemical and biological engineering research through the establishment of the Richard and Barbara Weaver Graduate Fellowship Fund.” 

Cersonsky added, “at its core, theoretical research is, in many ways, about wrestling with ideas—turning them around, challenging them, and identifying strengths and weaknesses of specific arguments. That’s not something that happens in silence. It happens in conversations, in sketches on whiteboards, in casual debates between people who have collective trust and respect. And now, because of the Weaver’s support, we have a space that encourages exactly that, driving research insights and growth of young researchers. We’re excited to get to work.”