ARA’s 2026 Distinguished Speaker

Prof. Penny Beuning

Professor and Chair, Department of Chemistry & Chemical Biology

Northeastern University

Catalyzing Careers through Mentoring

May 6, 2026
4:00-5:00 PM

School of Medicine II Room 104/106

Professor Beuning is an influential leader in her research discipline of DNA damage and
repair and is recognized for her extensive efforts to promote inclusive excellence in STEM.
As the 2026 ARA Distinguished Speaker, Professor Beuning's outstanding achievements in
the chemical sciences are complemented by her innovations in teaching and mentoring of
students and faculty. Dr. Beuning is the lead author of a book, Teach Better, Save Time,
and Have More Fun: A Guide to Teaching and Mentoring in Science, which is used for
professional development at numerous institutions. She is also an editor of a new book that
highlights innovative mentoring programs for undergraduates: Professional Mentoring
Programs for Science Students. Career Mentoring for Students in the Physical Sciences.

Dr. Beuning is a leader in the American Chemical Society (ACS), serving on several key
national committees of the American Chemical Society (ACS), particularly those focused on
education and professional development. In 2020, she was named a Fellow of the American
Chemical Society for her outstanding achievements, contributions to science, and her
service to the scientific community. In 2021, she became a Fellow of the American
Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) and received the IMPACT award from
the Research Corporation for Science Advancement. She was also the recipient of the
Camille and Henry Dreyfus Foundation New Faculty Award, a Cottrell Scholar, an American
Cancer Society Research Scholar, and an NSF CAREER Awardee, among other accolades.

Light reception to follow seminar