[Text sent by a B-MRS member]
It is with great sadness that I share the news of the passing—on October 6—of Professor T. Randall Lee, or, for those fortunate enough to know him personally, simply Randy.
Randy was a professor at the University of Houston, but he developed a close connection with Brazil through his work as Deputy Editor of the journal ACS Applied Nano Materials. I met him in 2018 when he invited me to join the editorial team of the then-newly launched journal. Our professional relationship grew into a close friendship, and over the years, Randy became a frequent and beloved presence at B-MRS Meetings.
He was impressed by the quality of the science showcased at Brazilian events and always had a kind word for students and researchers alike. He served as a plenary speaker at the Santos conference and enthusiastically championed the idea of a special issue of the journal dedicated to South American authors—a project launched last year. It was his way of recognizing and highlighting the scientific work being done in the region.
His passing is a deeply painful loss for all of us who had the opportunity to know him. Randy was not only an outstanding scientist and researcher but, above all, an exceptional human being. He was a professor deeply cherished by his students, who took turns caring for him while he was isolated during the COVID-19 pandemic. He was a generous person who shared his knowledge and experience without reservation, always ready to mentor, support, and open doors for those around him.
Personally, I learned a great deal from Randy—about science, about academic life, and, above all, about the importance of treating people with generosity and respect.
ACS Applied Nano Materials will publish a commemorative editorial in his honor, celebrating his contributions to the journal and his scientific legacy. It will be a small way to preserve his memory and acknowledge the legacy he left among us. Yet, certainly, no tribute can fill the void Randy will leave in all our lives.
Prof. Monica Cotta (UNICAMP)