(6y) Exploring Structure-Function Correlations of Nanomaterials in Heterogeneous Catalysis

Research Interests: Catalysis is the science and technology of influencing the rates of chemical reactions, which are at the core of chemical industry. Practical success of catalysis needs the interdisciplinary intersection of chemistry, chemical engineering, and material science. My research interests lie on understanding the mechanism of chemical reactions and the role of catalysts under reaction conditions in order to transform qualitative observations and knowledge into predictive science. My research program will focus on developing novel structure-reactivity relationships combining operando observation, materials synthesis and characterizations guided by theoretical calculations as applied to the field of heterogeneous catalysis inculding light alkanes activation, biomass conversion and energy conversion & storage.

Teaching Interests: I am confident that my academic experience makes me well prepared to teach both core and complementary courses. Given my research background, I would particularly enjoy teaching undergraduate level courses in reaction engineering, kinetics and electron microscopy. As for the graduate level, courses in interdisciplinary methods in heterogeneous catalysis is a natural fit for my background.