Research and Academic Interests

I am interested in the coordination chemistry of transition metals. My major area of research is the development of transition metal complexes. This part of my research is based on the following: (i) synthesis and the characterization of transition metal complexes (ii) reactivity as catalyst for oxidation reactions (iii) kinetics of ligand substitution (iv) interaction of metal complexes with DNA. My other area of research is in solid state chemistry with emphasis on composites derived from ruthenium terpyridine complexes and polyaniline.

Research and Professional Background

My research projects aim to provide research opportunities for undergraduate students. Students participate in the synthesis and the characterization of the ligands and the metal complexes. They learn the use of 1H-nmr, cyclic voltammetry, infrared and ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy and elemental analysis in characterizing the ligands and complexes. The students also participate in the reactivity studies (kinetics, oxidation of substrates, reaction with DNA) of the complexes.

One of the major benefits that science students at the University of Redlands have is the opportunity to do research. Undergraduate research provides students with hands on experience, an important component of a student's development as a scientist. It provides the students with the opportunity to bring together and apply the various concepts that they have been taught in chemistry courses. It inculcates in the student the habit of scientific writing and oral presentation also opens the door for students to be creative.