Our group is dedicated to developing innovative solutions for sustainable energy conversion and storage, with a strong emphasis on mimicking nature’s strategies. While renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and tidal power hold great promise for replacing fossil fuels, their intermittent nature poses significant challenges for consistent energy supply.
Inspired by natural photosynthesis, we focus on converting renewable energy into storable chemical fuels through small molecule activation. Our key areas of research include:
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Hydrogen Evolution Reaction (HER)
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Oxygen Reduction Reaction (ORR)
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Water Oxidation Reaction (WOR)
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Carbon Dioxide Reduction Reaction (CO2RR)
To achieve these transformations, we design and synthesize first-row transition metal-based molecular catalysts that incorporate essential features of natural metalloenzymes. These catalysts are evaluated under both homogeneous and heterogeneous conditions using electrochemical and photocatalytic techniques.
In recent years, our lab has expanded into electrochemical CO2 reduction, developing bioinspired and bimetallic systems for the selective and efficient conversion of COâ‚‚ into value-added fuels and chemicals. This work complements our broader mission to contribute to a carbon-neutral energy future through innovative catalysis and molecular engineering.