Analytical chemistry includes applied spectroscopy, environmental processes and fieldwork, forensics and biomedical research. Project tools include mass spectrometry, laser remote spectroscopy, kinetics, voltammetry, chromatography and multivariate spectroscopy. Applications include climate change research, resource protection, energy generation, marine and planetary exploration, psychobiology, environmental remediation and homeland security. For more information on these projects see the faculty links below.
My group's research is focused on developing an electroanalytical toolbox for in-depth analysis of electrocatalytic process and the interplay of reactivity and surface chemistry in three main projects: (1) electrochemical decontamination of persistent environmental pollutants, (2) electrosynthesis of ammonia and urea from nitrate, and (3) electrosynthesis of small organic molecules.
"Our research is focused on mining microbial genomes to discover drug leads, biosynthetic pathways, and new enzyme biocatalysts. We employ an interdisciplinary approach combining organic chemistry, natural products chemistry, biochemical analysis, metabolomics, genetic engineering, and synthetic biology."
"We're working to understand how nutrient conditions affect fluorescence properties of phytoplankton. This knowledge is being used to test phytoplankton as sensors for ocean composition. It is also being used to help identify phytoplankton by their pigmentation regardless of ocean composition."
"My group is investigating the formation of disinfection by-products (DBPs) in drinking water and swimming pools to solve important human health issues. We use GC/MS and LC/ MS in our research, and work closely with toxicologists and epidemiologists to determine which DBPs may be responsible, with the ultimate goal of eliminating them in drinking water and swimming pools."
"Our group seeks to establish electrochemical platforms for quantitatively studying of processes in environments relevant to human health. We investigate important questions at the chemistry-biology interface, including dynamic responses of stress-related biomarkers, mechanisms of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, and electron transfer in gut microbes."
"The analytical/environmental chemistry laboratory combines analytical method development with environmental applications such as transport and cycling of trace elements associated with icebergs, seawater and submarine ground waters."
"My group explores the intricate interplay between atmospheric chemistry, the environment, and climate. We employ cutting-edge analytical techniques such as LC/MS, GC/MS, and spectroscopy. These techniques enable us to monitor the concentrations and isotope compositions of trace gases and aerosol components in laboratory experiments and field campaigns. To gain comprehensive insights, we utilize advanced 3-D atmospheric chemistry and transport models, which serve as valuable tools for interpreting field observations and experimental results. By leveraging this multidisciplinary approach, we aim to unravel the connections between atmospheric chemistry, the environment, and climate to help achieve a more sustainable future."