Jeffrey Warren

Our research team is focused on understanding how the designs of molecular electrocatalysis promote different functions and how we can leverage those designs to create materials for use in green and renewable energy systems. Our view is that addressing technological challenges in the renewable energy sector is the defining chemical challenge of this generation. There exists many associated challenges and our ongoing research projects center on the use of electricity to activate and transform strong bonds in carbon dioxide (CO₂), dioxygen (O₂), water (H₂O) and dihydrogen (H₂). Examples of the classes of molecules that the team is investigating are shown below and include: diimine coordination complexes, metalloporphyrins, and metallophthalocyanines. We give special focus to understanding how the identity of different functional groups near the metal ion active site influence catalytic rates and reaction outcomes.

Researchers in the Warren group make routine use of a suite of electrochemical techniques, including classical 3-eletrode experiments and more advance hydrodynamic techniques. Student co-workers also gain hands-on experience in nuclear magnetic resonance, UV-visible spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, gas chromatography, and mass spectrometry. We use density functional theory calculations to understand details of catalysis that are not readily probed experimentally. The group is always excited to take on new challenges, learn new techniques, and expand our library of molecular electrocatalysts. Additional details about the group can be found on our dedicated website, linked above.