[image needed]
Catalytic processes are used in approximately 90% of all chemical processes, and catalytic reactions are central to the pharmaceutical, chemical and energy sectors. Thus, innovations in catalysis are critical to the preparation of new medicines, conversion of solar energy to chemical fuels, and the development of more environmentally benign methods to produce materials used by modern society. Faculty in the UVa Department of Chemistry are pursuing a broad array of fundamental advancements in the field of catalysis. Research efforts span homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysis, metal (transition and main group) and organo-catalysis, as well as thermal, photo and electro-catalysis. A primary focus is on the development of new catalytic materials and understanding mechanisms of those catalysts.