Research Focus

Research in our group focuses on developing design principles for renewable energy-relevant heterogeneous electrocatalysts. We develop model electrocatalytic systems that enable molecular-level control and modulation of the catalyst structure and the surrounding environment. By examining catalytically relevant thermodynamic and kinetic parameters, our research formulates structure-activity relationships that are fundamentally critical in designing next-generation electrocatalysts for sustainable energy and the environment. 

​

Currently, our research projects center around two classes of materials: highly porous and crystalline metal−organic frameworks (MOFs) and transition metal nitrides. We use a host of synthetic and characterization techniques to understand the fundamental chemistry at the interface of these catalysts and the surrounding reaction medium.