Research Interests
Faculty
Anderson, Mary, PhD, Associate Professor
Anderson research group focuses on the important antioxidant glutathione (GSH; L-•-glutamyl-L-cysteinylglycine). GSH is involved in many aspects of cellular defense and protection from disease; for example GSH levels are low in many disease states. We focus on the enzymology, structure-function, and regulation of the dimeric mammalian enzymes GSH biosynthesis: γ-glutamylcysteine synthetase (GCS) and GSH synthetase (GS). GS is a homodimer and GCS is a heterodimer, and the interactions of these subunits play a role in regulation. We use a variety of techniques (site-directed mutant enzymes and assess effects using activity, kinetics, circular dichroism, differential scanning calorimetry, molecular dynamics and isothermal calorimetry) to study the effects of changes on activity and function of GS and GCS on the substrate binding site and catalytic mechanism, role of several loop structures of GS, the molecular nature of the patient GS deficiencies and the dimer interface residues, especially as they affect regulation of enzyme activity. We also use molecular modeling studies to help explain our experimental findings and help guide our future studies. A better understanding of these dimer enzymes of GSH metabolism will increase our understanding of enzyme regulation in GSH biosynthesis and in enzyme regulation of biochemical pathways.
Beatty, John, PhD, Assistant Professor
The Beatty research group focuses on environmental, analytical, and physical chemistry. Our current project involves converting carbon dioxide into reusable organic compounds by studying plasma produced directly from carbon dioxide and using it to react with gasses such as hydrogen, methane, and water vapor. This work addresses the urgent need to reduce and reuse carbon dioxide emissions from human activities to mitigate climate change. Additionally, we are developing methods to detect environmental contaminants at lower levels, enabling timely mitigation and process changes to reduce or eliminate them. One specific area of interest is the study of the chlorhexidine molecule, its breakdown products, and their implications for water conservation and environmental contamination, given its widespread use. We are also investigating the leakage of dyes and pigments from plastics and their environmental impact. Our team leverages expertise from multiple chemical disciplines to tackle these significant issues in the field of chemistry.
Li, Yunxiang, PhD, Lecturer
The Li group focuses on bioenergetics in cells. Specifically, we are interested in the F-type ATP synthase. ATP synthase makes energy for cells; thus, it is found in all microbes, plants and animals: ATP synthase is essential to life. Also, mutations of ATP synthase have been found in many human disorders (such as diabetes, cancer, heart failure, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease, etc.). Our long-term research plans aim to (i) illustrate the structure, function and mechanism of ATP synthase, (ii) investigate how mutations in ATP synthase lead to human diseases, and (iii) find whether ATP synthase could be a potential target for new drug therapies. The significance of our research comes from two aspects: from fundamental biochemical and biophysical studies, we will promote insight comprehension of ATP synthase and extend the knowledge into unique bio motor proteins; we will be able to align our research outcomes into developing potential therapies of several of the most fatal human diseases and into deciphering the mystery of aging.
Lin, Shiru, PhD, Assistant Professor
The Lin group is working on computational material design, utilizing advanced techniques such as Machine Learning (ML) algorithms and density functional theory (DFT) to accelerate the discovery and development of new materials. Their work spans a wide range of applications, including nano-catalysts for energy-related reactions, low-dimensional materials, and porous materials. They have explored the electronic and structural properties of electrode materials for lithium-ion and sulfur batteries, as well as bifunctional catalysts for oxygen reduction and evolution reactions. Recently, the group has also computationally investigated the interactions involved in the adsorption and reduction of plastics, contributing to addressing environmental sustainability challenges. By combining first-principles simulations with machine learning, the Lin group optimizes material performance and develops frameworks to enhance energy efficiency and durability in energy storage devices. This multidisciplinary approach allows the Lin group to address complex challenges in material science, from fundamental studies of small molecule interactions to the application of computational tools for designing high-performance materials. Their recent publications, featured in leading journals, reflect their dedication to advancing material science through computational innovation.
Mirsaleh-Kohan, Nasrin, PhD, Division Lead; Associate Professor of Physics
The primary focus of Kohan research is to employ analytical techniques such as High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and Circular Dichroism (CD) techniques to systematically elucidate how platinum-based anticancer drugs interact with DNA, consequences of the interactions and also the role of various ligands in anticancer activity of these drugs. In the Kohan research group, another area of interest is investigating the affinity of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) for various solvents, utilizing Raman spectroscopy to analyze the spectral characteristics of both functionalized and non-functionalized CNTs. This research is crucial for advancing our understanding of CNT interactions with solvents, which is essential for enhancing their applications in diverse fields, including materials science, electronics, and biomedical engineering. Dr. Kohan is also interested in understanding teaching pedagogy and student learning, particularly in science classes.
Peebles, Lynda, PhD, Senior Lecturer
Primary Teaching Area: Introductory Chemistry, Introduction to Organic and Physiological Chemistry, Physical Chemistry
Research Interests: Chemical Education
Petros, Robby, PhD, Assistant Professor
Research in the Petros group focuses on synthesis and characterization of new stimuli-responsive materials. Of current interest is the use of classic cobalt coordination chemistry to reversibly crosslink amine-containing (bio) molecules. The technique is predicated on the fact that dative amine-cobalt bonds are quite stable under oxidative conditions (Co3+), but labile under reducing ones (Co2+). The method has been used to successfully crosslink a variety of proteins into stable colloidal nanoparticle suspensions. The colloids have been shown to be stable for weeks under physiologically relevant conditions, but breakdown rapidly upon the addition of reductant (>1 mM reduced glutathione). These nanoparticles hold great potential for application in targeted drug delivery where they would serve as a benign matrix that could be loaded with chemotherapeutics or other drug molecules. The group is also exploring the possibility of utilizing this chemistry in the synthesis of fully recyclable polymers (through depolymerization) with structures/properties similar to nylons and Kevlar.
Rawashdeh-Omary, Manal, PhD, Professor
Sustainable Chemistry for Nature-Inspired Advanced Materials Design: our research group is dedicated to the development of innovative, sustainable materials with potential applications in energy, electronics, and environmental sensing. We focus on harnessing the power of nature-inspired chemistry to design and synthesize novel coinage metal-containing organic materials. By leveraging fundamental chemical principles, we aim to create materials with exceptional properties, such as tunable light emission, efficient energy harvesting, and selective sensing capabilities.
Our research focuses on the critical role of green chemistry in developing technological solutions that benefit society while safeguarding the environment. By combining cleaner, sustainable, and cost-effective materials and methods, we strive to inspire a shift toward eco-friendly innovation in materials science. Through our research, we aim to pave the way for a more sustainable, health-conscious, and economically viable future. We examine the intricate relationship between a material's chemical structure and its resulting functions. By systematically varying the chemical composition, we investigate how these alterations influence properties such as light emission and solar energy harvesting, opening doors to the design of materials with tailored functionalities. These properties hold significant potential for diverse future applications, including the development of advanced electronic devices, environmental sensors, medicinal reagents, and diagnostic tools for cancer and other diseases.
• Sustainable Synthesis: We prioritize green chemistry approaches, minimizing the use of harmful solvents and reducing environmental impact. Our research emphasizes solvent-free techniques like mechanochemical synthesis, sublimation and microwave, offering more efficient and eco-friendly routes to material production.
• Coordination Polymers and Metal-Organic Frameworks: We are exploring the synthesis and properties of coordination polymers and metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) for applications in energy storage, catalysis, and gas separation. These materials offer unique structural and functional properties, making them promising candidates for sustainable technologies
• Energy-Efficient Materials: We are developing advanced materials for energy-harvesting solar cells and energy-saving lighting. By mimicking the light-absorbing properties of natural pigments, we are exploring designing materials that efficiently convert sunlight into electricity or emit light with higher efficiency.
• Environmental Sensing: Our research extends to the development of vapochromic sensors capable of detecting volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These sensors can play a crucial role in monitoring air quality and protecting human health. In addition to copper-based complexes for CO2 capture.
Furthermore, we integrate our research into student learning, allowing them to participate in real-world discovery experiments in undergraduate labs. This hands-on approach helps inspire the next generation of scientists and researchers. By combining innovative synthetic techniques with a deep understanding of fundamental chemistry, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of materials science and contributing to a more sustainable future.
Salazar, Gustavo A., PhD, Assistant Professor
Salazar research focuses on the application of green chemistry techniques to remediate plastic-waste and microplastic pollution, and contaminating dyestuff. Our projects focus on:(1) Chemical recycling of plastics found in electronic waste; (2) microwave-assisted chemical depolymerization of plastics found in electronic waste; (3) photochemical degradation of polymers; (4) analysis, extraction, and remediation of microplastic pollution in soil; (5) development of sustainable substrates for the removal of color dyes in wastewater; and (6) Preparation of natural inorganic adsorbent to remove environmentally damaging dyestuff from wastewater. In our group we utilize various spectroscopy techniques such as IR, NMR, and UV-vis adsorption along with physical and chemical techniques that include: thermogravimetrical analysis, particle size analysis, and Fenton digestion to name a few.
Taylor, Alana Presley, Visiting Lecturer
Page last updated 8:13 AM, November 21, 2024