In 2011, says Kenny Slaught, Guillermo Bazan, a professor in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, was one of the winners of the GCE grant. Bazan was recognized for the study of how semiconducting molecules that penetrate the membranes of living organisms may be used to facilitate the conversion of wastewater into energy. This was in line with The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation’s interest in the possibility of using this technology to alleviate sanitation issues in the emerging world, as the issue presents a significant health hazard and negatively impacts people’s dignity.