About the Division
Researchers in the Chemical & Materials Sciences Division perform experimental and theoretical studies to understand chemical transformations at complex interfaces such as those occurring in catalytic processes.
Scientists in the Chemical & Materials Sciences Division seek to attain a molecular-level understanding of complex multi-phase systems and phenomena critically important to the U.S. Department of Energy's energy, environmental, and security missions and other critical national needs. To attain that understanding, we are developing the tools needed to understand and control chemical and physical processes in condensed phases and at complex interfaces at the same level of detail we understand and control gas-phase phenomena today.
Themes of our research programs are
- Integration of experiment with theory and computation to address important scientific problems at molecular and nano scales.
- Multi-disciplinary and multi-institutional teaming.
- Significant use of advanced experimental and computational resources at PNNL and in DOE user facilities.
- Scientific productivity as measured by publication of research results in peer-reviewed journals.
- Catalysis and control of chemical transformations.
- Computational chemistry and geochemistry.
- Condensed phase and interfacial chemical physics.
- Defects in materials and at materials interfaces.
- Low-temperature geochemical & biogeochemical processes.
- Separations & analysis.
- Solution synthesis and self-assembled structures.
- Chemical transformations at complex interfaces such as those occurring in catalytic and geochemical processes.
- Computational environmental, molecular, and nanoscale science.
- Chemistry & physics of small particles and nanostructured materials.
- Self assembly of molecules and nanoparticles to form targeted nanostructured materials.
- Altering defect structures in condensed phases to control properties and understanding ion-irradiation effects in materials.
Signature Strengths of the Chemical Sciences Division
Our strategic intent is to maintain and grow these signature strengths and, building upon them and resources in the Department of Energy's EMSL, a national scientific user facility at PNNL, to become acknowledged leaders in
We can assist you in achieving your goals in these areas, either through contract or collaborative research. We also provide opportunities for you to work in our facilities as an employee or intern, or under other educational programs.
Contact us for more information.
Bruce Garrett
Director, Chemical & Materials Sciences Division