My research interests encompass three different areas. In catalysis, my group is developing new catalysts for organic synthesis and polymer synthesis, especially those that employ supramolecular and biomimetic principles. We are also exploring catalytic processes that involve extended systems–such as artificial enzymes, solid-state catalysts (MOF, POP, supported oxide), and multiple-phase systems–and elucidating their mechanisms of operation. In the area of soft materials chemistry, my group is synthesizing polymer systems with novel properties (biological activity, optical activity, conductivity, redox-activity, etc.), porous materials for separation and energy-storage, and carbon-based materials (graphene, graphene oxide, carbon nanotubes and their nanocomposites). In the area of biomaterials, we are synthesizing polymer-biopolymer and inorganic/organic hybrid materials, studying their interactions with surfaces, and employing them in drug-delivery and diagnostic applications.
Awards and Achievements
- Highly Cited Researcher ( 2014-2017)
- McCormick Professorship for Teaching Excellence
- Dow Research Professorship
- Lifetime National Associate of the US National Research Council
- CAREER Award (NSF)
- PECASE (AFOSR)
- Beckman Fellowship