Name: Mitch Smith, associate chemistry professor
Department: Chemistry
Date of research: Smith has been working on this project since 1995, but Michael Faraday began working with chemicals in 1825.
"Compared to that, I haven't been working that long on my work," Smith said.
Type of research: Inorganic and organic chemistry
Basics of research: Researchers working with Smith are studying carbon bonds. They are not typically very reactive, and the researchers found a way to make them react without harsh stimulants, such as nitric acids, Smith said.
"We found a way to make the chemicals react under really mild conditions," Smith said. "We create reactions using a metal catalyst."
The research created an intermediate for chemists to create other bonds with, and it also shortens the process, he said.
"It makes hydrogen gas at the end," Smith said. "It is more environmentally friendly."
Social impact of research: The research is beneficial to many areas, including the medical field, Smith said.
"Pharmacists can use it for drug discovery," Smith said. "With our chemistry, they can get their hands on building blocks that have never been looked at before. It has a big potential for new types of drugs to come out of this."
The new process also can take a shorter amount of time than previous methods, Smith said.
"There may be cases where we can cut out steps," Smith said, adding that by omitting steps, the process can be more cost-effective.
Electronic companies can also benefit from the research because they can use the process to brighten laptop displays.
"It is going to be the new generation of displays," Smith said. "Half the energy will go into running the displays by using the molecules we make."
Difficulties of research: "Finding enough hours in a day to devote to my research and my family," Smith said.
Weird/unknown fact: Chemical catalysts is one of the largest global industries because it is used in many different fields, Smith said. Chemical catalysts are used in making prescription drugs, gasoline and more.
Funding for research: Smith's research funding came from the National Institutes of Health and the 21st Century Jobs Fund, which awarded Smith and Robert Maleczka, another associate chemistry professor, $1.38 million.
"In terms of students, it costs a quarter of a million dollars per student," Smith said, adding that he currently has five students working with him. The funds buy chemicals and other supplies, and also support the students financially so they can focus on their research.
