Ken Rohly

Job Title

Professor of Chemistry Emeritus
Chemistry, College of Arts and Sciences

Highlight

Ken's research is focused on solution, surface, and materials chemistry applied to industrial applications. His major area of interest has been the modification of the surface chemistry of metallic and polymeric biomaterials used for devices implanted in the body. Recent research projects include the development and understanding of ion-exchange materials, physical and chemical adsorption phenomena, the application of biocides in medical device processes, microencapsulation and controlled release of active agents, and the dynamics of chemical fixation on tissue. Ken has had research contracts with Medtronic, Deluxe Corp., and 3M, among others.

Started at Bethel

1987

Education

Spring Arbor University - B.S. in Chemistry, 1980
University of Pittsburgh - Ph.D. in Inorganic Chemistry, 1985

Biography

Originally from Northeast Ohio, Ken was at Bethel for nearly 30 years and worked with Medtronic, Inc., for over 25 years. Ken's training is in inorganic and analytical chemistry, but he taught courses ranging from elementary education chemistry and STEM to general chemistry to advanced inorganic and analytical chemistry to senior seminar. He supervised over 100 undergraduate student research projects, many of which have been funded by industry. He is interested in European history and periodically teach the History of Science in Europe course, offered during our January term.

His wife, Cindy, and he have three adult daughters, all of whom attended Bethel. They enjoy weekends at their cabin in Wisconsin, where he enjoys fishing, boating, and outdoor projects.