Liu brings Au to USA and STL

Runpeng Liu, a recent graduate of Ladue Horton-Watkins High School, earned a gold medal at the 45th International Chemistry Olympiad (IChO). His three teammates also earned high scores, receiving one gold and two silver medals.

The Olympiad, hosted July 15–23 in Moscow (Russia, not Idaho), drew teams from more than 70 countries. Despite a grueling schedule of exams and laboratory work, competitors had opportunities to participate in athletics and sightseeing, and to establish networks that span cultures and borders.

Of his experience, Runpeng said, “The Olympiad was an unforgettable experience. We met so many people from around the world, and learned about Russia’s rich history and vast culture. The competition was extremely difficult, but we managed very well. Our team took home two gold and two silver medals. We are very impressed with our performance and excited to have represented our nation strongly. The event was truly a celebration of chemistry’s role in changing lives and uniting scientists across the world.”

The American Chemical Society has sponsored the American team annually since the United States joined the Olympiad. Principal funding is through the ACS Donald F and Mildred Topp Othmer Olympiad Endowment. Among the many additional sources of funding is Saint Louis’ Sigma-Aldrich Co.