Research Focus Areas

Chemistry of Biological Systems involves study of the reactivity in biological systems, and application of chemical techniques to understand and manipulate the molecules in living systems. In our department, faculty are exploring aspects of:

Protein molecular recognition/interactions and foldamer interactions
Molecular design & synthesis of drugs and their metabolic disposition
Neurochemistry of small molecules, their receptors, and transporters
Separations and mass spectrometry for proteomics and metabolomics

Chemistry of Materials is understanding the atomistic basis of materials synthesis, properties, and behavior, and the application of such information to improve materials performance. Many of the Chemistry faculty in the area also participate in the Materials Science program at WSU. Research efforts are focused on:

Self-assembling nanostructures
Catalytic or magnetic materials, semiconductors, and ceramic composites
Stimuli-responsive poly materials and nanoparticles

Chemistry of Energy and the Environment emphasizes the chemistry that sustains and enhances energy cycles, and addresses the impact of energy production on environmental quality. Research opportunities include: