Department of ChemistryThis area of study combines aspects of organic and inorganic chemistry. Synthesis forms a substantial component of most programs in this area. Mechanistic investigations are often undertaken to ascertain how an unexpected product is formed or to optimize the performance of a catalytic system. Because synthesis and catalysis are central to the preparation of new materials, students who receive an advanced degree in this area have excellent career prospects.
A variety of experimental tools are used in this research area, including X-ray diffraction, multinuclear NMR, UV/visible, infrared, laser Raman, EPR, mass spectroscopies, electrochemistry, and computer modeling. Students have the opportunity to learn a wide range of techniques on state-of-the art instrumentation, typically applying a range of techniques to the systems they study. Research in this area brings students into frequent contact with faculty and students in other groups, which leads to learning opportunities for students across a wide range of disciplines.
Projects are underway in the development of catalysts for strong bond activation, understanding the mechanism of hydrogen atom transfer, mechanistic investigations of membrane bound enzymes, synthesis and characterization of nanoparticles and several other areas.