Focus Areas

Three areas bring together departmental expertise and instrumentation and represent a path toward continued expansion and growth. Traditional divisions of chemistry also flourish under these banners.

Chemistry of Biological Systems

The study of reactivity and application of chemical techniques to understand and manipulate the molecules in living systems. Our researchers are exploring:

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

Materials and Interfacial Science

Understanding the atomistic basis of materials synthesis, properties, and behavior, and the applications improve materials performance. Many of the chemistry faculty in the area also participate in the materials science program at Washington State University.

Research efforts in this area are focused on:

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

Chemistry of Radiological Systems

Emphasizes the chemistry that sustains and enhances energy cycles and addresses the impact of energy production on the environmental. Research opportunities include:

  • Solar photoconversion and energy storage;
  • Separations to support advance fuel cycles;
  • Actinide geochemistry.