Research

Our research is focused on the utilization and efficient conversion of globally abundant substrates, such as CO₂, N₂, CH₄, natural/shale gas components and biofuels, which are related to energy and environmental concerns. The research focuses on the development of novel inorganic materials and molecules spanning the fields of both heterogeneous and homogeneous catalysis. A major emphasis is centered on the development of well-defined heterogeneous catalysts using state-of-the-art surface organometallic chemistry (SOMC) techniques where a fundamental understanding of catalytic events and structure-activity relationships can be established for complex heterogeneous catalysts, all while utilizing principles of homogenous chemistry. Members of the group will gain a strong background in synthetic chemistry, particularly in the synthesis and handling of highly air-sensitive and reactive organometallic and inorganic molecules, which will be utilized in the development of both heterogeneous and homogeneous catalysts. The diversity of projects across heterogeneous and homogeneous catalysis topics will allow students to utilize a wide-range of characterization techniques, including X-ray absorption spectroscopies, X-ray diffraction studies, multinuclear solution and solid-state NMR, surface area analysis, UV-vis, IR, Raman, EPR, and cyclic voltammetry.