Understanding nanoscale molecular interactions on surfaces can inform fields as varied as heterogeneous catalysis, self-assembly, sensors, coatings, and nanoelectronics, among others. Over the course of my career thus far I have studied how molecules affect surfaces and vice versa. My graduate work focused on low temperature, ultrahigh vacuum scanning tunneling microscopy to image individual molecules on surfaces. Of particular note is my work during grad school to characterize the geometric and electronic structure of Single Atom Catalysts, and my work supporting the formation of the world’s smallest electric motor. As a postdoc, my research expanded to near ambient pressures as I followed morphological surface changes mid-reaction with microscopy and spectroscopy. While studying oxides supported on metals, my team and I discovered a mixed metal oxide that showed catalytic promise as it stabilized reactive sites for CO oxidation up to working temperatures. My research lab at JMU focuses on both the interplay between molecules on surfaces, as well the role of surface modifications on selective chemistry. My undergraduate students have the opportunity to design and direct ultrahigh vacuum experiments, preparing them for life beyond college, whether they are continuing their education, working in industry, or are project managing at construction sites. Together, we have uncovered the exchange between hydrogen and deuterium atoms at low temperatures between molecular species, explored naturally occurring defect sites on metals, and controlled the selective oxidation of ethanol to acetaldehyde.

Ultrahigh vacuum to near ambient pressure: A nanoscale view of how molecules behave on surfaces

ACS Spring 2022

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.