research topics of chemistry

100+ Great Chemistry Research Topics

Table of contents

• 1 What are the best chemistry research topics?
• 2 5 Tips for Writing Chemistry Research Papers
• 3 Chemical Engineering Research Topics
• 4 Organic Сhemistry Research Topics
• 5 Іnorganic Сhemistry Research Topics
• 6 Biomolecular Сhemistry Research Topics
• 7 Analytical Chemistry Research Topics
• 8 Computational Chemistry Research Topics
• 9 Physical Chemistry Research Topics
• 10 Innovative Chemistry Research Topics
• 11 Environmental Chemistry Research Topics
• 12 Green Chemistry Research Topics
• 13.1 Conclusion

Do you need a topic for your chemistry research paper? Are you unsure of where to start? Don’t worry – we’re here to help. In this post, we’ll go over a series of the best chemistry research paper topics as well as Tips for Writing Chemistry Research Papers on different topics. By the time you finish reading this post, you’ll have plenty of ideas to get started on your next research project!

There are many different subfields of chemistry, so it can be tough to find interesting chemistry topics to write about. If you’re struggling to narrow down your topic, we’ll go over lists of topics in multiple fields of study.

What are the best chemistry research topics?

Doing research is important to help scientists learn more about the world around us. By researching different compounds and elements, we can learn more about how they interact with one another and how they can be used to create new products or improve existing ones.

There are many different topics that you can choose to research in chemistry. Here are just a few examples:

• The history of chemistry and how it has evolved over time
• How different chemicals react with one another
• How to create new compounds or improve existing ones
• The role of chemistry in the environment
• The health effects of different chemicals

5 Tips for Writing Chemistry Research Papers

Once you have chosen a topic for your research paper , it is important to follow some tips to ensure that your paper is well-written and accurate. Here are a few tips to get you started:

• Start by doing some background research on your topic. This will help you understand the basics of the topic and give you a good foundation to build your paper on.
• Make sure to cite all of the sources that you use in your paper. This will help to show where you got your information and will also help to add credibility to your work.
• Be sure to proofread your paper before you submit it. This will ensure that there are no errors and that your paper is clear and concise.
• Get help from a tutor or friend if you are struggling with your paper. They may be able to offer helpful advice or feedback.
• Take your time when writing your research paper . This is not a race, and it is important to make sure that you do a good job on your research.

By following these tips, you can be sure that your chemistry research paper will be a success! So what are you waiting for? Let’s go over some of the best research paper topics out there.

Chemical Engineering Research Topics

Chemical Engineering is a branch of engineering that deals with the design and application of chemical processes. If you’re wondering how to choose a paper topic, here are some ideas to inspire you:

• How to create new alloy compounds or improve existing ones
• The health effects of the food industry chemicals
• Chemical engineering and sustainable development
• The future of chemical engineering
• Chemical engineering and the food industry
• Chemical engineering and the pharmaceutical industry
• Chemical engineering and the cosmetics industry
• Chemical engineering and the petrochemical industry

These are just a few examples – there are many more possibilities out there! So get started on your research today. Who knows what you might discover!

Organic Сhemistry Research Topics

Organic chemistry is the study of carbon-containing molecules. There are many different organic chemistry research topics that a student could choose to focus on and here are just a few examples of possible research projects in organic chemistry:

• Investigating new methods for synthesizing chiral molecules
• Studying the structure and reactivity of carbon nanotubes
• Investigating metal complexes with organometallic ligands
• Designing benzene derivatives with improved thermal stability
• Exploring new ways to control the stereochemistry of chemical reactions
• Studying the role of enzymes in organic synthesis
• Investigating new strategies for combating drug resistance
• Developing new methods for detecting explosives residues
• Studying the photochemistry of organic molecules
• Studying the behavior of organometallic compounds in biological systems

Іnorganic Сhemistry Research Topics

Inorganic Chemistry is the study of the chemistry of materials that do not contain carbon. Unlike other chemistry research topics, these include elements such as metals, minerals, and inorganic compounds. If you are looking for inorganic chemistry research topics on inorganic chemistry, here are some ideas to get you started:

• How different metals react with one another
• How to create new alloys or improve existing ones
• The role of inorganic chemistry in the environment
• Inorganic chemistry and sustainable development
• The future of inorganic chemistry
• Inorganic chemistry and the food industry
• Inorganic chemistry and the pharmaceutical industry
• Atomic structure progressive scale grading
• Inorganiс Сhemistry and the cosmetics industry

Biomolecular Сhemistry Research Topics

Biomolecular chemistry is the study of molecules that are important for life. These molecules can be found in all living things, from tiny bacteria to the largest animals. Researchers who work in this field use a variety of techniques to learn more about how these molecules function and how they interact with each other.

If you are looking for essential biomolecular chemistry research topics, here are some ideas to get you started:

• The structure and function of DNA
• The structure and function of proteins
• The role of carbohydrates in the body
• The role of lipids in the body
• How enzymes work
• The role of biochemistry in heart disease
• Cyanides and their effect on the body
• The role of biochemistry in cancer treatment
• The role of biochemistry in Parkison’s disease treatment
• The role of biochemistry in the immune system

The possibilities are endless for someone willing to dedicate some time to research.

Analytical Chemistry Research Topics

Analytical Chemistry is a type of chemistry that helps scientists figure out what something is made of. This can be done through a variety of methods, such as spectroscopy or chromatography. If you are looking for research topics, here are some ideas to get you started:

• How food chemicals react with one another
• Mass spectrometry
• Analytical aspects of gas and liquid chromatography
• Analytical chemistry and sustainable development
• Atomic absorption spectroscopy methods and best practices
• Analytical chemistry and the pharmaceutical industry in Ibuprofen consumption
• Analytical chemistry and the cosmetics industry in UV protectors
• Dispersive x-ray analysis of damaged tissues

Analytical chemistry is considered by many a complex science and there is a lot yet to be discovered in the field.

Computational Chemistry Research Topics

Computational chemistry is a way to use computers to help chemists understand chemical reactions. This can be done by simulating reactions or by designing new molecules. If you are looking for essential chemistry research topics in computational chemistry, here are some ideas to get you started:

• Molecular mechanics simulation
• Reaction rates of complex chemical reactions
• Designing new molecules: how can simulation help
• The role of computers in the study of quantum mechanics
• How to use computers to predict chemical reactions
• Using computers to understand organic chemistry
• The future of computational chemistry in organic reactions
• The impacts of simulation on the development of new medications
• Combustion reaction simulation impact on engine development
• Quantum-chemistry simulation review

Computers are cutting-edge technology in chemical research and this relatively new field of study has a ton yet to be explored.

Physical Chemistry Research Topics

Physical chemistry is the study of how matter behaves. It looks at the physical and chemical properties of atoms and molecules and how they interact with each other. If you are looking for physical chemistry research topics, here are some ideas to get you started:

• Standardization of pH scales
• Structure of atom on a quantum scale
• Bonding across atoms and molecules
• The effect of temperature on chemical reactions
• The role of light in in-body chemical reactions
• Chemical kinetics
• Surface tension and its effects on mixtures
• The role of pressure in chemical reactions
• Rates of diffusion in gases and liquids
• The role of entropy in chemical reactions

Here are just a few samples, but there are plenty more options! Start your research right now!

Innovative Chemistry Research Topics

Innovative chemistry is all about coming up with new ideas and ways to do things. This can be anything from creating new materials to finding new ways to make existing products. If you are looking for ground-breaking chemistry research topics, here are some ideas to get you started:

• Amino acids side chain effects in protein folding
• Chemistry in the production of nanomaterials
• The role of enzymes in chemical reactions
• Photocatalysis in 3D printing
• Avoiding pesticides in agriculture
• Combining chemical and biological processes
• Gene modification in medicinal chemistry
• The role of quantum mechanics in chemical reactions
• Astrochemical research on extraterrestrial molecules
• Spectroscopy signatures of pressurized organic components

If you need a hand, there are several sites that also offer research papers for sale and can be a great asset as you work to create your own research papers.

Whatever route you decide to take, good luck! And remember – the sky’s the limit when it comes to research! So get started today and see where your studies may take you. Who knows, you might just make a breakthrough discovery!

Environmental Chemistry Research Topics

Environmental Chemistry is the study of how chemicals interact with the environment. This can include anything from the air we breathe to the water we drink. If you are looking for environmental chemistry research topics, here are some ideas to get you started:

• Plastic effects on ocean life
• Urban ecology
• The role of carbon in climate change
• Air pollution and its effects
• Water pollution and its effects
• Chemicals in food and their effect on the body
• The effect of chemicals on plant life
• Earth temperature prediction models

A lot of research on the environment is being conducted at the moment because the environment is in danger. There are a lot of environmental problems that need to be solved, and research is the key to solving them.

Green Chemistry Research Topics

Green chemistry is the study of how to make products and processes that are environmentally friendly. This can include anything from finding new ways to recycle materials to developing new products that are biodegradable. If you are looking for green chemistry research topics, here are some ideas to get you started:

• Recycling and reuse of materials
• Developing biodegradable materials
• Improving existing recycling processes
• Green chemistry and sustainable development
• The future of green chemistry
• Green chemistry and the food industry
• Green chemistry and the pharmaceutical industry
• Green chemistry and the cosmetics industry

A more environmentally friendly world is something we all aspire for and a lot of research has been conducted on how we can achieve this, making this one of the most promising areas of study. The results have been varied, but there are a few key things we can do to make a difference.

Controversial Chemistry Research Topics

Controversial chemistry is all about hot-button topics that people are passionate about. This can include anything from the use of chemicals in warfare to the health effects of different chemicals. If you are looking for controversial topics to write about , here are some ideas to get you started:

• The use of chemicals in warfare
• Gene modification in human babies
• Bioengineering
• How fast food chemicals affect the human brain
• The role of the government in regulating chemicals
• Evolution of cigarette chemicals over time
• Chemical effects of CBD oils
• Antidepressant chemical reactions
• Synthetic molecules replication methods
• Gene analysis

Controversial research papers often appear in the media before it has been peer-reviewed and published in a scientific journal. The reason for this is that the media is interested in stories that are new, exciting, and generate a lot of debate.

Chemistry is an incredibly diverse and interesting field, with many controversial topics to write about. If you are looking for a research topic, consider the examples listed in this article. With a little bit of effort, you are sure to find a topic that is both interesting and within your skillset.

In order to be a good researcher, it is important to be able to think critically and solve problems. However, innovation in chemistry research can be challenging. When thinking about how to innovate, it is important to consider both the practical and theoretical aspects of your research. Additionally, try to build on the work of others in order to create something new and unique. With a little bit of effort, you are sure to be able to find a topic that is both interesting and within your skillset.

Happy writing!

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Home » 300+ Chemistry Research Topics

300+ Chemistry Research Topics

Table of Contents

Chemistry is a fascinating and complex field that explores the composition, properties, and behavior of matter at the molecular and atomic level. As a result, there are numerous chemistry research topics that can be explored, ranging from the development of new materials and drugs to the study of natural compounds and the environment. In this rapidly evolving field, researchers are constantly uncovering new insights and pushing the boundaries of our understanding of chemistry. Whether you are a student, a professional researcher, or simply curious about the world around you, there is always something new to discover in the field of chemistry. In this post, we will explore some of the exciting and important research topics in chemistry today.

Chemistry Research Topics

Chemistry Research Topics are as follows:

Organic Chemistry Research Topics

Organic Chemistry Research Topics are as follows:

• Development of novel synthetic routes for the production of biologically active natural products
• Investigation of reaction mechanisms and kinetics for organic transformations
• Design and synthesis of new catalysts for asymmetric organic reactions
• Synthesis and characterization of chiral compounds for pharmaceutical applications
• Development of sustainable methods for the synthesis of organic molecules using renewable resources
• Discovery of new reaction pathways for the conversion of biomass into high-value chemicals
• Study of molecular recognition and host-guest interactions for drug design
• Design and synthesis of new materials for energy storage and conversion
• Development of efficient and selective methods for C-H functionalization reactions
• Exploration of the reactivity of reactive intermediates such as radicals and carbenes
• Study of supramolecular chemistry and self-assembly of organic molecules
• Development of new methods for the synthesis of heterocyclic compounds
• Investigation of the biological activities and mechanisms of action of natural products
• Synthesis of polymeric materials with controlled architecture and functionality
• Development of new synthetic methodologies for the preparation of bioconjugates
• Investigation of the mechanisms of enzyme catalysis and the design of enzyme inhibitors
• Synthesis and characterization of novel fluorescent probes for biological imaging
• Development of new synthetic strategies for the preparation of carbohydrates and glycoconjugates
• Study of the properties and reactivity of carbon nanomaterials
• Design and synthesis of novel drugs for the treatment of diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s disease.

Inorganic Chemistry Research Topics

Inorganic Chemistry Research Topics are as follows:

• Synthesis and characterization of new metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) for gas storage and separation applications
• Development of new catalysts for sustainable chemical synthesis reactions
• Investigation of the electronic and magnetic properties of transition metal complexes for spintronics applications
• Synthesis and characterization of novel nanomaterials for energy storage applications
• Development of new ligands for metal coordination complexes with potential medical applications
• Investigation of the mechanism of metal-catalyzed reactions using advanced spectroscopic techniques
• Synthesis and characterization of new inorganic materials for photocatalytic water splitting
• Development of new materials for electrochemical carbon dioxide reduction reactions
• Investigation of the properties of transition metal oxides for energy storage and conversion applications
• Synthesis and characterization of new metal chalcogenides for optoelectronic applications
• Development of new methods for the preparation of inorganic nanoparticles with controlled size and shape
• Investigation of the reactivity and catalytic properties of metal clusters
• Synthesis and characterization of new metal-organic polyhedra (MOPs) for gas storage and separation applications
• Development of new methods for the synthesis of metal nanoparticles using environmentally friendly reducing agents
• Investigation of the properties of metal-organic frameworks for gas sensing applications
• Synthesis and characterization of new coordination polymers with potential magnetic and electronic properties
• Development of new materials for electrocatalytic water oxidation reactions
• Investigation of the properties of metal-organic frameworks for carbon capture and storage applications
• Synthesis and characterization of new metal-containing polymers with potential applications in electronics and energy storage
• Development of new methods for the synthesis of metal-organic frameworks using green solvents and renewable resources.

Physical Chemistry Research Topics

Physical Chemistry Research Topics are as follows:

• Investigation of the properties and interactions of ionic liquids in aqueous and non-aqueous solutions.
• Development of advanced analytical techniques for the study of protein structure and dynamics.
• Investigation of the thermodynamic properties of supercritical fluids for use in industrial applications.
• Development of novel nanomaterials for energy storage applications.
• Studies of the surface chemistry of catalysts for the optimization of their performance in chemical reactions.
• Development of new methods for the synthesis of complex organic molecules with improved yields and selectivity.
• Investigation of the molecular mechanisms involved in the catalysis of biochemical reactions.
• Development of new strategies for the controlled release of drugs and other bioactive molecules.
• Studies of the interaction of nanoparticles with biological systems for biomedical applications.
• Investigation of the thermodynamic properties of materials under extreme conditions of temperature and pressure.
• Development of new methods for the characterization of materials at the nanoscale.
• Investigation of the electronic and magnetic properties of materials for use in spintronics.
• Development of new materials for energy conversion and storage.
• Studies of the kinetics and thermodynamics of adsorption processes on surfaces.
• Investigation of the transport properties of ionic liquids for use in energy storage and conversion devices.
• Development of new materials for the capture and sequestration of greenhouse gases.
• Studies of the structure and properties of biomolecules for use in drug design and development.
• Investigation of the dynamics of chemical reactions in solution using time-resolved spectroscopic techniques.
• Development of new approaches for the synthesis of metallic and semiconductor nanoparticles with controlled size and shape.
• Studies of the structure and properties of materials for use in electrochemical energy storage devices.

Analytical Chemistry Research Topics

Analytical Chemistry Research Topics are as follows:

• Development and optimization of analytical techniques for the quantification of trace elements in food and environmental samples.
• Design and synthesis of novel analytical probes for the detection of biomolecules in complex matrices.
• Investigation of the fundamental mechanisms involved in the separation and detection of complex mixtures using chromatographic techniques.
• Development of sensors and biosensors for the detection of chemical and biological species in real-time.
• Investigation of the chemical and structural properties of nanomaterials and their applications in analytical chemistry.
• Development and validation of analytical methods for the quantification of contaminants and pollutants in water, air, and soil.
• Investigation of the molecular mechanisms underlying drug metabolism and toxicity using mass spectrometry.
• Development of analytical tools for the identification and quantification of drugs of abuse in biological matrices.
• Investigation of the chemical composition and properties of natural products and their applications in medicine and food science.
• Development of advanced analytical techniques for the characterization of proteins and peptides.
• Investigation of the chemistry and mechanism of action of antioxidants in foods and their impact on human health.
• Development of analytical methods for the detection and quantification of microorganisms in food and environmental samples.
• Investigation of the molecular mechanisms involved in the biosynthesis and degradation of important biomolecules such as proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids.
• Development of analytical methods for the detection and quantification of environmental toxins and their impact on human health.
• Investigation of the structure and properties of biological membranes and their role in drug delivery and disease.
• Development of analytical techniques for the characterization of complex mixtures such as petroleum and crude oil.
• Investigation of the chemistry and mechanism of action of natural and synthetic dyes.
• Development of analytical techniques for the detection and quantification of pharmaceuticals and personal care products in water and wastewater.
• Investigation of the chemical composition and properties of biopolymers and their applications in biomedicine and biomaterials.
• Development of analytical methods for the identification and quantification of essential nutrients and vitamins in food and dietary supplements.

Biochemistry Research Topics

Biochemistry Research Topics are as follows:

• The role of enzymes in metabolic pathways
• The biochemistry of DNA replication and repair
• Protein folding and misfolding diseases
• Lipid metabolism and the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis
• The role of vitamins and minerals in human metabolism
• Biochemistry of cancer and the development of targeted therapies
• The biochemistry of signal transduction pathways and their regulation
• The mechanisms of antibiotic resistance in bacteria
• The biochemistry of neurotransmitters and their roles in behavior and disease
• The role of oxidative stress in aging and age-related diseases
• The biochemistry of microbial fermentation and its applications in industry
• The biochemistry of the immune system and its response to pathogens
• The biochemistry of plant metabolism and its regulation
• The molecular basis of genetic diseases and gene therapy
• The biochemistry of membrane transport and its role in cell function
• The biochemistry of muscle contraction and its regulation
• The role of lipids in membrane structure and function
• The biochemistry of photosynthesis and its regulation
• The biochemistry of RNA splicing and alternative splicing events
• The biochemistry of epigenetics and its regulation in gene expression.

Environmental Chemistry Research Topics

Environmental Chemistry Research Topics are as follows:

• Investigating the effects of microplastics on aquatic ecosystems and their potential impact on human health.
• Examining the impact of climate change on soil quality and nutrient availability in agricultural systems.
• Developing methods to improve the removal of heavy metals from contaminated soils and waterways.
• Assessing the effectiveness of natural and synthetic antioxidants in mitigating the effects of air pollution on human health.
• Investigating the potential for using algae and other microorganisms to sequester carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
• Studying the role of biodegradable plastics in reducing plastic waste and their impact on the environment.
• Examining the impact of pesticides and other agricultural chemicals on water quality and the health of aquatic organisms.
• Investigating the effects of ocean acidification on marine organisms and ecosystems.
• Developing new materials and technologies to reduce carbon emissions from industrial processes.
• Evaluating the effectiveness of phytoremediation in cleaning up contaminated soils and waterways.
• Studying the impact of microplastics on terrestrial ecosystems and their potential to enter the food chain.
• Developing sustainable methods for managing and recycling electronic waste.
• Investigating the role of natural processes, such as weathering and erosion, in regulating atmospheric carbon dioxide levels.
• Assessing the impact of urbanization on air quality and developing strategies to mitigate pollution in cities.
• Examining the effects of climate change on the distribution and abundance of species in different ecosystems.
• Investigating the impact of ocean currents on the distribution of pollutants and other environmental contaminants.
• Developing new materials and technologies for renewable energy generation and storage.
• Studying the effects of deforestation on soil quality, water availability, and biodiversity.
• Assessing the potential for using waste materials, such as agricultural residues and municipal solid waste, as sources of renewable energy.
• Investigating the role of natural and synthetic chemicals in regulating ecosystem functions, such as nutrient cycling and carbon sequestration.

Polymer Chemistry Research Topics

Polymer Chemistry Research Topics are as follows:

• Development of new monomers for high-performance polymers
• Synthesis and characterization of biodegradable polymers for sustainable packaging
• Design of stimuli-responsive polymers for drug delivery applications
• Investigation of the properties and applications of conductive polymers
• Development of new catalysts for controlled/living polymerization
• Synthesis of polymers with tailored mechanical properties
• Characterization of the structure-property relationship in polymer nanocomposites
• Study of the impact of polymer architecture on material properties
• Design and synthesis of new polymeric materials for energy storage
• Development of high-throughput methods for polymer synthesis and characterization
• Exploration of new strategies for polymer recycling and upcycling
• Synthesis and characterization of responsive polymer networks for smart textiles
• Design of advanced polymer coatings with self-healing properties
• Investigation of the impact of processing conditions on the morphology and properties of polymer materials
• Study of the interactions between polymers and biological systems
• Development of biocompatible polymers for tissue engineering applications
• Synthesis and characterization of block copolymers for advanced membrane applications
• Exploration of the potential of polymer-based sensors and actuators
• Design of novel polymer electrolytes for advanced batteries and fuel cells
• Study of the behavior of polymers under extreme conditions, such as high pressure or temperature.

Materials Chemistry Research Topics

Materials Chemistry Research Topics are as follows:

• Development of new advanced materials for energy storage and conversion
• Synthesis and characterization of nanomaterials for environmental remediation
• Design and fabrication of stimuli-responsive materials for drug delivery
• Investigation of electrocatalytic materials for fuel cells and electrolysis
• Fabrication of flexible and stretchable electronic materials for wearable devices
• Development of novel materials for high-performance electronic devices
• Exploration of organic-inorganic hybrid materials for optoelectronic applications
• Study of corrosion-resistant coatings for metallic materials
• Investigation of biomaterials for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine
• Synthesis and characterization of metal-organic frameworks for gas storage and separation
• Design and fabrication of new materials for water purification
• Investigation of carbon-based materials for supercapacitors and batteries
• Synthesis and characterization of self-healing materials for structural applications
• Development of new materials for catalysis and chemical reactions
• Exploration of magnetic materials for spintronic devices
• Investigation of thermoelectric materials for energy conversion
• Study of 2D materials for electronic and optoelectronic applications
• Development of sustainable and eco-friendly materials for packaging
• Fabrication of advanced materials for sensors and actuators
• Investigation of materials for high-temperature applications such as aerospace and nuclear industries.

Nuclear Chemistry Research Topics

Nuclear Chemistry Research Topics are as follows:

• Nuclear fission and fusion reactions
• Nuclear power plant safety and radiation protection
• Radioactive waste management and disposal
• Nuclear fuel cycle and waste reprocessing
• Nuclear energy and its impact on climate change
• Radiation therapy for cancer treatment
• Radiopharmaceuticals for medical imaging
• Nuclear medicine and its role in diagnostics
• Nuclear forensics and nuclear security
• Isotopic analysis in environmental monitoring and pollution control
• Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy
• Nuclear magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• Radiation damage in materials and radiation effects on electronic devices
• Nuclear data evaluation and validation
• Nuclear reactors design and optimization
• Nuclear fuel performance and irradiation behavior
• Nuclear energy systems integration and optimization
• Neutron and gamma-ray detection and measurement techniques
• Nuclear astrophysics and cosmology
• Nuclear weapons proliferation and disarmament.

Medicinal Chemistry Research Topics

Medicinal Chemistry Research Topics are as follows:

• Drug discovery and development
• Design and synthesis of novel drugs
• Medicinal chemistry of natural products
• Structure-activity relationships (SAR) of drugs
• Rational drug design using computational methods
• Target identification and validation
• Drug metabolism and pharmacokinetics (DMPK)
• Drug delivery systems
• Development of new antibiotics
• Design of drugs for the treatment of cancer
• Development of drugs for the treatment of neurological disorders
• Medicinal chemistry of peptides and proteins
• Development of drugs for the treatment of infectious diseases
• Discovery of new antiviral agents
• Design of drugs for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases
• Medicinal chemistry of enzyme inhibitors
• Development of drugs for the treatment of inflammatory diseases
• Design of drugs for the treatment of metabolic disorders
• Medicinal chemistry of anti-cancer agents
• Development of drugs for the treatment of rare diseases.

Food Chemistry Research Topics

Food Chemistry Research Topics are as follows:

• Investigating the effect of cooking methods on the nutritional value of food.
• Analyzing the role of antioxidants in preventing food spoilage and degradation.
• Examining the effect of food processing techniques on the nutritional value of fruits and vegetables.
• Studying the chemistry of food additives and their impact on human health.
• Evaluating the role of enzymes in food digestion and processing.
• Investigating the chemical properties and functional uses of food proteins.
• Analyzing the effect of food packaging materials on the quality and safety of food products.
• Examining the chemistry of food flavorings and the impact of flavor on consumer acceptance.
• Studying the role of carbohydrates in food texture and structure.
• Investigating the chemistry of food lipids and their impact on human health.
• Analyzing the chemical properties and functional uses of food gums and emulsifiers.
• Examining the effect of processing on the flavor and aroma of food products.
• Studying the chemistry of food preservatives and their impact on food safety.
• Investigating the chemical properties and functional uses of food fibers.
• Analyzing the effect of food processing on the bioavailability of nutrients.
• Examining the chemistry of food colorants and their impact on consumer acceptance.
• Studying the role of vitamins and minerals in food and their impact on human health.
• Investigating the chemical properties and functional uses of food hydrocolloids.
• Analyzing the effect of food processing on the allergenicity of food products.
• Examining the chemistry of food sweeteners and their impact on human health.

Industrial Chemistry Research Topics

Industrial Chemistry Research Topics are as follows:

• Development of catalysts for selective hydrogenation reactions in the petrochemical industry.
• Green chemistry approaches for the synthesis of biodegradable polymers from renewable sources.
• Optimization of solvent extraction processes for the separation of rare earth elements from ores.
• Development of novel materials for energy storage applications, such as lithium-ion batteries.
• Production of biofuels from non-food sources, such as algae or waste biomass.
• Application of computational chemistry to optimize the design of new catalysts and materials.
• Design and optimization of continuous flow processes for large-scale chemical production.
• Development of new synthetic routes for the production of pharmaceutical intermediates.
• Investigation of the environmental impact of industrial processes and development of sustainable alternatives.
• Development of innovative water treatment technologies for industrial wastewater.
• Synthesis of functionalized nanoparticles for use in drug delivery and other biomedical applications.
• Optimization of processes for the production of high-performance polymers, such as polyamides or polyesters.
• Design and optimization of process control strategies for efficient and safe chemical production.
• Development of new methods for the detection and removal of heavy metal ions from industrial effluents.
• Investigation of the behavior of surfactants in complex mixtures, such as crude oil or food products.
• Development of new materials for catalytic oxidation reactions, such as the removal of volatile organic compounds from air.
• Investigation of the properties and behavior of materials under extreme conditions, such as high pressure or high temperature.
• Development of new processes for the production of chemicals from renewable resources, such as bio-based building blocks.
• Study of the kinetics and mechanism of chemical reactions in complex systems, such as multi-phase reactors.
• Optimization of the production of fine chemicals, such as flavors and fragrances, using biocatalytic processes.

Computational Chemistry Research Topics

Computational Chemistry Research Topics are as follows:

• Development and application of machine learning algorithms for predicting chemical reactions and properties.
• Investigation of the role of solvents in chemical reactions using molecular dynamics simulations.
• Modeling and simulation of protein-ligand interactions to aid drug design.
• Study of the electronic structure and reactivity of catalysts for sustainable energy production.
• Analysis of the thermodynamics and kinetics of complex chemical reactions using quantum chemistry methods.
• Exploration of the mechanism and kinetics of enzyme-catalyzed reactions using molecular dynamics simulations.
• Investigation of the properties and behavior of nanoparticles using computational modeling.
• Development of computational tools for the prediction of chemical toxicity and environmental impact.
• Study of the electronic properties of graphene and other 2D materials for applications in electronics and energy storage.
• Investigation of the mechanisms of protein folding and aggregation using molecular dynamics simulations.
• Development and optimization of computational methods for calculating thermodynamic properties of liquids and solids.
• Study of the properties of supercritical fluids for applications in separation and extraction processes.
• Development of new methods for the calculation of electron transfer rates in complex systems.
• Investigation of the electronic and mechanical properties of carbon nanotubes for applications in nanoelectronics and nanocomposites.
• Development of new approaches for modeling the interaction of biomolecules with biological membranes.
• Study of the mechanisms of charge transfer in molecular and hybrid solar cells.
• Analysis of the structural and mechanical properties of materials under extreme conditions using molecular dynamics simulations.
• Development of new approaches for the calculation of free energy differences in complex systems.
• Investigation of the reaction mechanisms of metalloenzymes using quantum mechanics/molecular mechanics (QM/MM) methods.
• Study of the properties of ionic liquids for applications in catalysis and energy storage.

Theoretical Chemistry Research Topics

Theoretical Chemistry Research Topics are as follows:

• Quantum Chemical Studies of Excited State Processes in Organic Molecules
• Theoretical Investigation of Structure and Reactivity of Metal-Organic Frameworks
• Computational Modeling of Reaction Mechanisms and Kinetics in Enzyme Catalysis
• Theoretical Investigation of Non-Covalent Interactions in Supramolecular Chemistry
• Quantum Chemical Studies of Photochemical Processes in Organic Molecules
• Theoretical Analysis of Charge Transport in Organic and Inorganic Materials
• Computational Modeling of Protein Folding and Dynamics
• Quantum Chemical Investigations of Electron Transfer Processes in Complex Systems
• Theoretical Studies of Surface Chemistry and Catalysis
• Computational Design of Novel Materials for Energy Storage Applications
• Theoretical Analysis of Chemical Bonding and Molecular Orbital Theory
• Quantum Chemical Investigations of Magnetic Properties of Complex Systems
• Computational Modeling of Biological Membranes and Transport Processes
• Theoretical Studies of Nonlinear Optical Properties of Molecules and Materials
• Quantum Chemical Studies of Spectroscopic Properties of Molecules
• Theoretical Investigations of Reaction Mechanisms in Organometallic Chemistry
• Computational Modeling of Heterogeneous Catalysis
• Quantum Chemical Studies of Excited State Dynamics in Photosynthesis
• Theoretical Analysis of Chemical Reaction Networks
• Computational Design of Nanomaterials for Biomedical Applications

Astrochemistry Research Topics

Astrochemistry Research Topics are as follows:

• Investigating the chemical composition of protoplanetary disks and its implications for planet formation
• Examining the role of magnetic fields in the formation of complex organic molecules in space
• Studying the effects of interstellar radiation on the chemical evolution of molecular clouds
• Exploring the chemistry of comets and asteroids to better understand the early solar system
• Investigating the origin and evolution of interstellar dust and its relationship to organic molecules
• Examining the formation and destruction of interstellar molecules in shocked gas
• Studying the chemical processes that occur in the atmospheres of planets and moons in our solar system
• Exploring the possibility of life on other planets through astrobiology and astrochemistry
• Investigating the chemistry of planetary nebulae and their role in the evolution of stars
• Studying the chemical properties of exoplanets and their potential habitability
• Examining the chemical reactions that occur in the interstellar medium
• Investigating the chemical composition of supernova remnants and their impact on the evolution of galaxies
• Studying the chemical composition of interstellar grains and their role in the formation of stars and planets
• Exploring the chemistry of astrocytes and their role in the evolution of galaxies
• Investigating the formation of interstellar ice and its implications for the origin of life
• Examining the chemistry of molecular clouds and its relationship to star formation
• Studying the chemical composition of the interstellar medium in different galaxies and how it varies
• Investigating the role of cosmic rays in the formation of complex organic molecules in space
• Exploring the chemical properties of interstellar filaments and their relationship to star formation
• Studying the chemistry of protostars and the role of turbulence in the formation of stars.

Geochemistry Research Topics

Geochemistry Research Topics are as follows:

• Understanding the role of mineralogical and geochemical factors on metal mobility in contaminated soils
• Investigating the sources and fate of dissolved organic matter in aquatic systems
• Exploring the geochemical signatures of ancient sedimentary rocks to reconstruct Earth’s past atmospheric conditions
• Studying the impacts of land-use change on soil organic matter content and quality
• Investigating the impact of acid mine drainage on water quality and ecosystem health
• Examining the processes controlling the behavior and fate of emerging contaminants in the environment
• Characterizing the organic matter composition of shale gas formations to better understand hydrocarbon storage and migration
• Evaluating the potential for carbon capture and storage in geologic formations
• Investigating the geochemical processes controlling the formation and evolution of ore deposits
• Studying the geochemistry of geothermal systems to better understand energy production potential and environmental impacts
• Exploring the impacts of climate change on the biogeochemistry of terrestrial ecosystems
• Investigating the geochemical cycling of nutrients in coastal marine environments
• Characterizing the isotopic composition of minerals and fluids to understand Earth’s evolution
• Developing new analytical techniques to better understand the chemistry of natural waters
• Studying the impact of anthropogenic activities on the geochemistry of urban soils
• Investigating the role of microbial processes in geochemical cycling of elements in soils and sediments
• Examining the impact of wildfires on soil and water chemistry
• Characterizing the geochemistry of mineral dust and its impact on climate and biogeochemical cycles
• Investigating the geochemical factors controlling the release and transport of contaminants from mine tailings
• Exploring the biogeochemistry of wetlands and their role in carbon sequestration and nutrient cycling.

Electrochemistry Research Topics

Electrochemistry Research Topics are as follows:

• Development of high-performance electrocatalysts for efficient electrochemical conversion of CO2 to fuels and chemicals
• Investigation of electrode-electrolyte interfaces in lithium-ion batteries for enhanced battery performance and durability
• Design and synthesis of novel electrolytes for high-energy-density and stable lithium-sulfur batteries
• Development of advanced electrochemical sensors for the detection of trace-levels of analytes in biological and environmental samples
• Analysis of the electrochemical behavior of new materials and their electrocatalytic properties in fuel cells
• Study of the kinetics of electrochemical reactions and their effect on the efficiency and selectivity of electrochemical processes
• Development of novel strategies for the electrochemical synthesis of value-added chemicals from biomass and waste materials
• Analysis of the electrochemical properties of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) for energy storage and conversion applications
• Investigation of the electrochemical degradation mechanisms of polymer electrolyte membranes in fuel cells
• Study of the electrochemical properties of 2D materials and their applications in energy storage and conversion devices
• Development of efficient electrochemical systems for desalination and water treatment applications
• Investigation of the electrochemical properties of metal-oxide nanoparticles for energy storage and conversion applications
• Analysis of the electrochemical behavior of redox-active organic molecules and their application in energy storage and conversion devices
• Study of the electrochemical behavior of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) for the catalytic conversion of CO2 to value-added chemicals
• Development of novel electrode materials for electrochemical capacitors with high energy density and fast charge/discharge rates
• Investigation of the electrochemical properties of perovskite materials for energy storage and conversion applications
• Study of the electrochemical behavior of enzymes and their application in bioelectrochemical systems
• Development of advanced electrochemical techniques for the characterization of interfacial processes in electrochemical systems
• Analysis of the electrochemical behavior of nanocarbons and their application in electrochemical energy storage devices
• Investigation of the electrochemical properties of ionic liquids for energy storage and conversion applications.

Surface Chemistry Research Topics

Surface Chemistry Research Topics are as follows:

• Surface modification of nanoparticles for enhanced catalytic activity
• Investigating the effect of surface roughness on the wetting behavior of materials
• Development of new materials for solar cell applications through surface chemistry techniques
• Surface chemistry of graphene and its applications in electronic devices
• Surface functionalization of biomaterials for biomedical applications
• Characterization of surface defects and their effect on material properties
• Surface modification of carbon nanotubes for energy storage applications
• Developing surface coatings for corrosion protection of metals
• Synthesis of self-assembled monolayers on surfaces for sensor applications
• Surface chemistry of metal-organic frameworks for gas storage and separation
• Investigating the role of surface charge in protein adsorption
• Developing surfaces with superhydrophobic or superoleophobic properties for self-cleaning applications
• Surface functionalization of nanoparticles for drug delivery applications
• Surface chemistry of semiconductors and its effect on photovoltaic properties
• Development of surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) substrates for trace analyte detection
• Surface functionalization of graphene oxide for water purification applications
• Investigating the role of surface tension in emulsion formation and stabilization
• Surface modification of membranes for water desalination and purification
• Synthesis and characterization of metal nanoparticles for catalytic applications
• Development of surfaces with controlled wettability for microfluidic applications.

Atmospheric Chemistry Research Topics

Atmospheric Chemistry Research Topics are as follows:

• The impact of wildfires on atmospheric chemistry
• The role of aerosols in atmospheric chemistry
• The chemistry and physics of ozone depletion in the stratosphere
• The chemistry and dynamics of the upper atmosphere
• The impact of anthropogenic emissions on atmospheric chemistry
• The role of clouds in atmospheric chemistry
• The chemistry of atmospheric particulate matter
• The impact of nitrogen oxides on atmospheric chemistry and air quality
• The effects of climate change on atmospheric chemistry
• The impact of atmospheric chemistry on climate change
• The chemistry and physics of atmospheric mercury cycling
• The impact of volcanic eruptions on atmospheric chemistry
• The chemistry and physics of acid rain formation and effects
• The role of halogen chemistry in the atmosphere
• The chemistry of atmospheric radicals and their impact on air quality and health
• The impact of urbanization on atmospheric chemistry
• The chemistry and physics of stratospheric polar vortex dynamics
• The role of natural sources (e.g. ocean, plants) in atmospheric chemistry
• The impact of atmospheric chemistry on the biosphere
• The chemistry and dynamics of the ozone hole over Antarctica.

Photochemistry Research Topics

Photochemistry Research Topics are as follows:

• Investigating the mechanisms of photoinduced electron transfer reactions in organic photovoltaic materials.
• Developing novel photoredox catalysts for photochemical reactions.
• Understanding the effects of light on DNA and RNA stability and replication.
• Studying the photochemistry of atmospheric pollutants and their impact on air quality.
• Designing new photoresponsive materials for advanced photonic and electronic devices.
• Exploring the photochemistry of metalloporphyrins for potential applications in catalysis.
• Investigating the photochemistry of transition metal complexes and their use as photodynamic therapy agents.
• Developing new photocatalytic systems for sustainable energy production.
• Studying the photochemistry of natural products and their potential pharmaceutical applications.
• Investigating the role of light in the formation and degradation of environmental contaminants.
• Designing new photochromic materials for smart windows and displays.
• Exploring the photochemistry of carbon nanomaterials for energy storage and conversion.
• Developing new light-driven molecular machines for nanotechnology applications.
• Investigating the photochemistry of organic dyes for potential applications in dye-sensitized solar cells.
• Studying the effects of light on the behavior of biological macromolecules.
• Designing new photoresponsive hydrogels for drug delivery applications.
• Exploring the photochemistry of semiconductor nanoparticles for potential applications in quantum computing.
• Investigating the mechanisms of photochemical reactions in ionic liquids.
• Developing new photonic sensors for chemical and biological detection.
• Studying the photochemistry of transition metal complexes for potential applications in water splitting and hydrogen production.

About the author

Muhammad Hassan

Researcher, Academic Writer, Web developer

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• ACS Publications

21 Cutting-Edge Chemistry Topics

• Jul 31, 2020
• 14 min read

ACS Publications regularly produces collections of the most important chemistry research topics. These Virtual Collections of the most important chemistry research topics bring together the most important ideas in the field in a variety of ways, including Special Issues and ACS Selects from across the portfolio journals. These collections reflect the most important chemistry research […]

ACS Publications regularly produces collections of the most important chemistry research topics. These Virtual Collections of the most important chemistry research topics bring together the most important ideas in the field in a variety of ways, including Special Issues and ACS Selects from across the portfolio journals. These collections reflect the most important chemistry research topics of current scientific interest and are designed for experienced investigators and educators alike.

Browse 21 of the most important, engaging topics in chemists with Virtual Collections released by ACS Publications journals in Q2 2020:

David N. Beratan Festschrift

David Beratan’s unique style of doing science has had a broad and deep impact on chemistry, biochemistry, and biophysics. He has developed theories with an eye toward influencing the design and interpretation of key experiments, and his impact has been tremendous. David’s insights and predictive models have opened up entirely new research directions to experimental inquiry: tunneling pathways, inverse molecular design, optimization of polarizability response through ground-state polarization, flickering resonance, and chiral imprinting are all examples of concepts that he has pioneered that have guided experimental designs and advances for decades. ***

First Accounts

Early-career scientists have some of the freshest ideas and are instrumental in pushing the frontiers of chemistry and related disciplines. Recognizing this, we have initiated the first in an annual series of virtual issues highlighting the publications in Accounts of Chemical Research over the past year that are authored by early-stage scientists: First Accounts. In addition to featuring early career researchers, each Account in this collection is the first article the corresponding author has published in Accounts of Chemical Research as a principal investigator.

First Accounts are also first-hand accounts—our junior faculty and newest researchers in industry and institutes are the most engaged in experimental design and execution in the laboratory, and we see this reflected in the writing from younger authors. In most cases, they have staked their careers on the success of the research program described in their Account, and justifiably, that passion for molecular design, mechanistic inquiry, and structural evidence comes through in their writing. ***

Sustainability

To promote the positive role that chemistry plays in the world, ACS established the Chemists Celebrate Earth Week (CCEW) which will occur April 19-25, 2020. This year’s theme is “Protecting Our Planet through Chemistry”, with a focus on sustainability. ***

Complex Organic Molecules in Star-Forming Regions

This Virtual Special Issue is concerned mainly with a class of interstellar molecules that strongly resemble organic molecules present in the terrestrial organic laboratory. These molecules, known as “complex organic molecules”, a term abbreviated either as COMs or iCOMs, the “I” standing for “interstellar” since these molecules, containing from 6-13 atoms, are hardly complex when compared with the much larger molecules found on Earth. The COMs, which include simple alcohols, esters, nitriles, and ethers, have been observed extensively by radio astronomy. The wealth of material in this Virtual Special Issue concerning interstellar complex organic molecules should provide the reader with a comprehensive introduction to this burgeoning area of astrochemistry. If the 50-year history of astrochemistry is any guide, however, research in the future is likely to change some of the conclusions reached here. Nevertheless, the future work will be based on the solid foundation reported. ***

New Advances in Organic Aerosol Chemistry

This virtual issue is a collection of exciting new advances in organic aerosol chemistry. The manuscripts fall into four broad and interconnected categories: (1) novel insights into secondary organic aerosol (SOA) formation, (2) the impact of organics on aerosol physical properties relevant for climate, (3) organics and the aerosol-cloud life cycle, and (4) field observations of organic aerosols and their transformations. Collectively, the manuscripts in this virtual issue represent the next generation of ideas and techniques in this field. Further research, enabled by recent advances in aerosol technology and collaborative and inclusive research culture, will be needed to tackle the urgent challenges in global air pollution and climate that we face today. ***

Area Selective Deposition: From Materials Chemistry to Nanofabrication

Right around 2014, as the minimum feature size of electronic devices approached 10 nm, nanofabrication needed a break-through technology to enable precise fabrication in 3D structures within the few nanometer scale. Area selective atomic layer deposition (AS-ALD) was recognized as having many advantages for this challenge because it is a bottom-up patterning approach with high conformality in 3D structures. The purpose of this virtual issue is to compile some of the recent, scientifically innovative papers in AS-ALD research published in Chemistry of Materials and other ACS journals for readers who are interested in this research field. Although the papers in this issue are focused on those published recently, we also include a few older published papers to provide some context about the main research history. ***

20th Anniversary of Aggregation-Induced Emission

2020 marks the 20th anniversary of the concept of aggregation-induced emission (AIE). Since the concept was first coined in 2001, it changes the way people think about chromophore aggregation and provides a broad platform for the design and development of new luminescent materials in practically useful solid state. AIE and the related interdisciplinary research have greatly promoted the continuous innovation and rapid development of chemistry, materials and medicine, which lay an important physical and theoretical foundation for related fields with substantial global impact. The collection of 30 recently published articles from these ACS journals highlights the dynamic and vibrant AIE research. This Virtual Issue will serve as valuable resources for both well-established and early career researchers to learn more about AIE.

Remembering the Contributions and Life of Professor Joel Bernstein

Professor Joel Bernstein (1941–2019) inspired many of us with his insatiable enthusiasm for science and teaching and his passion for the organic solid state. Joel will be remembered for his humanity, compassion, wisdom, scientific depth and breadth, and an unsurpassed passion for history, especially when interwoven with science. He was, truly, polymorphic. This Virtual Special Issue of Crystal Growth & Design is intended to celebrate and commemorate his contributions to the field. ***

Melbourne – Australia’s Science City

Melbourne is Australia’s second largest city and fastest growing metropolis with around 4.5 million inhabitants. It is also the Australian biomedical and materials science hub. This virtual issue of ACS Nano celebrates recent research in nanoscience and nanotechnology emanating from various institutes within the city of Melbourne: University of Melbourne, Monash University, RMIT University, Swinburne University, the Melbourne Centre for Nanofabrication, and CSIRO. ***

Toward Chemistry in Real Space and Real Time

This Virtual Special Issue bears the title of the symposium held during the National Meeting of the American Chemical Society Fall 2019 National Meeting in San Diego, CA, marking the sunset of the eponymous Center for Chemistry at the Space-Time Limit. This National Science Foundation (NSF) Center for Chemical Innovation was founded with the vision to capture motions of individual molecules in real space and time, ultimately, to reach the joint Å-fs scale resolution necessary to visualize chemistry in the act. This VSI serves a collection of manuscripts by participants that capture the topics covered at the CaSTL sunset symposium. ***

Giants in Sensing: A Virtual Issue to Celebrate Five Years of ACS Sensors

As ACS Sensors celebrates its first five years of publication, we want to take this opportunity to honor people who have been central in shaping the field. To most scientists, chemical and biological sensing is a thoroughly modern discipline. It is unashamedly interdisciplinary, marrying fundamental insights and the foundations of analytical chemistry, state of the art materials science, bioengineering, electrochemistry, optics, biology, clinical and environmental chemistry. It addresses important measurement science challenges that face us today. This is what motivates many of us to contribute to this important field. Together with Analytical Chemistry and the Journal of the American Chemical Society , we present a virtual issue on Giants in Sensing featuring some fifty articles from influential sensing researchers who have contributed to any of these journals in the past five years. Please go through the list, read these excellent articles, and be sure to remember their names and those that came before when you write your next publication. It is humbling to know that we are all standing on the shoulders of giants. ***

Natural Products: Isolation, Total Synthesis, Structure-Activity Relationships, and More

Chemists are known for their ability to design and create molecules and materials—it is at the heart of what we do. Many of our ideas originate with the ultimate molecular designer and synthetic engineer, Nature, which has found an elegant way over time to create the necessary molecules of life or ones that participate in life cycles. Much of the new chemistry involving these natural products ends up on the pages of Organic Letters and The Journal of Organic Chemistry each year, pieced together through total synthesis to guide the way toward developing new and improved medicines, agricultural chemicals, biocatalysts, and more.

In this Virtual Issue, we feature 40 leading articles on natural products chemistry, selected by Organic Letters Editor-in-Chief Erick M. Carreira and The Journal of Organic Chemistry Editor-in-Chief Scott J. Miller from among the more than 250 articles on the topic published in the ACS core organic journals during 2019. ***

Quantum Dots and their Applications: What Lies Ahead?

It has been many years since the first works on the reduced dimensionality of semiconductors, which led to the concept of ‘artificial atoms’, or quantum dots (QDs). These semiconductor nanocrystals, with nanometer-sized diameters, exhibit quantum size effects in their optical and electronic properties. In particular, tunable and efficient photoluminescence (PL), with narrow emission and photochemical stability, as well as core-shell structures are commonly achieved today for many quantum dot materials systems. As a consequence, quantum dots have been incorporated as active elements in a wide variety of devices and applications, such as light-emitting diodes and display applications, photovoltaics, photoconductors and photodetectors, biomedical and environmental applications and catalysis applications. Many of these applications are now commercially-available and incorporated into our daily life, such as the case of quantum-dot-based displays. Despite being now part of mature technologies, quantum dot synthesis, characterization, and applications still constitute a highly active field of investigation. In light of various new development in applications of quantum dots, it is our pleasure to announce a “virtual issue” on quantum dots and their applications for ACS Applied Nano Materials . ***

Laboratory Learning

The Journal of Chemical Education has published many widely cited articles about learning in the chemistry laboratory. Laboratory teaching continues to evolve and face new challenges in today’s world. To help share the broad approaches to laboratory education, the journal has provided a collective resource of articles on laboratory learning and understanding, inquiry methods, student preparedness, assessing the lab, and faculty goals and professional development for laboratory teaching. We hope your find these articles as a useful resource increasing your knowledge in laboratory learning. ***

Challenges and Opportunities in Designing Perovskite Nanocrystal Heterostructures

Since the first report of CsPbBr3 nanocrystal synthesis by the hot-injection five years ago, we have seen phenomenal growth in research efforts to understand the photodynamics, luminescent properties, and stabilization of different phases of perovskite materials. We envision the possibility of designing perovskite nanocrystal heterostructures in combinations with other perovskites, metal oxides and chalcogenides, and precious metals and 2D materials. This virtual issue highlights some of the key findings published in ACS Applied Materials and Interfaces, ACS Energy Letters, ACS Nano, Chemistry of Materials, Journal of American Chemical Society, Nano Letters, and Journal of Physical Chemistry C . ***

International Symposium on Molecular Spectroscopy

The collection of papers in this virtual special issue of the Journal of Physical Chemistry A are representative of the work disseminated over the last decade at the International Symposium on Molecular Spectroscopy (ISMS), which is on the verge of its 75th anniversary. The ISMS was founded in 1946 and was held on campus at The Ohio State University for 68 consecutive years, where after it moved to the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Historically, the emphasis of the ISMS has been the characterization of the structure, dynamics, and spectroscopy of molecular systems, including complexes and clusters. The fundamental spectroscopic techniques developed by the participants of ISMS have been applied over the years to an ever more precise understanding of the chemistry and physics of aqueous environments, combustion, the interstellar medium, and planetary atmospheres, to name a few of the more popular areas of discussion at the symposium. This research, in both the gas and condensed phases, spans the subject areas of JPC A . ***

3D Printing of Polymers

The distributive manufacturing enabled by 3D printing has been on display in the response to shortages in critical medical resources for the response to the COVID-19 epidemic. In almost all cases, these 3D printed parts have been polymers and have been instrumental in providing a stopgap to logistical challenges in obtaining critical components. These have included, amongst many other examples, engineered solutions to limited number of ventilators through 3D printing of valves for ventilators, parts to transform snorkeling masks into continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) devices, and repurposing of existing medical equipment to meet demands for treating patients. The timely delivery of these 3D printed plastic components has been enabled by the advances in 3D printing over the past decades. In light of their acute significance in this global health crisis, it is our pleasure to announce a “virtual issue” on the 3D printing of polymers for ACS Applied Polymer Materials .

New Tools and Methods in Physical Chemistry Research

This spring marks the second anniversary of the introduction of a section in The Journal of Physical Chemistry A highlighting work in the development of New Tools and Methods in Experiment and Theory. Work published in this section of J. Phys. Chem. A spans the full scope of physical chemistry research that is published in the three parts of the Journal. In the two years since this section was introduced, we have published more than 200 articles. In this collection of twenty-five articles, we highlight representative examples of the exciting work in the development of new tools and methods, which has been published in The Journal over the past two years. ***

Recent Highlights on Interfaces from China

This Langmuir virtual issue contains a collection of carefully selected articles which showcase very recent studies on interfaces from China. The authors with science and engineering backgrounds are from national and state key laboratories, academic institutes as well as universities located at various parts of China. We hope that you’ll enjoy reading this sample collection of Langmuir publications for the recent exciting work on nanomaterials and interfaces authored by Chinese scientists! ***

Virus Detection

In this virtual issue, we highlight 23 papers centered on the development of molecular tests for viruses. The type of work these researchers were doing was no less important then, than it is now. Current events have just brought the importance of their work into focus. We feel the papers in this virtual issue serve as a benchmark for the types of innovation the journals Analytical Chemistry and ACS Sensors are looking for. The papers we selected are just a subset of the many wonderful, innovative papers on infection detection we have published and represent the incredible work being done around the globe in detection science that will help keep us safe. When we read the papers, they give us hope that we will be far better equipped to deal with any future potential pandemics. We thank these scientists for their research. ***

A New Era of Metal-Organic Framework Nanomaterials and Applications

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Undergraduate Research in Chemistry

Undergraduate research in chemistry is self-directed experimentation work under the guidance and supervision of a mentor or advisor. Students participate in an ongoing research project and investigate phenomena of interest to them and their advisor.

There is a broad range of research areas in the chemical sciences. Today’s research groups are interdisciplinary, crossing boundaries across fields and across other disciplines, such as physics, biology, materials science, engineering and medicine.

Basic or Applied Research?

Basic research The objective of basic research is to gain more comprehensive knowledge or understanding of the subject under study, without specific applications in mind. In industry, basic research is defined as research that advances scientific knowledge but does not have specific immediate commercial objectives, although it may be in fields of present or potential commercial interest.

Applied research Applied research is aimed at gaining knowledge or understanding to determine the means by which a specific, recognized need may be met. In industry, applied research includes investigations oriented to discovering new scientific knowledge that has specific commercial objectives with respect to products, processes, or services.

• Undergraduate Research Opportunities
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What is research at the undergraduate level?    

At the undergraduate level, research is self-directed work under the guidance and supervision of a mentor/advisor ― usually a university professor. A gradual transition towards independence is encouraged as a student gains confidence and is able to work with minor supervision. Students normally participate in an ongoing research project and investigate phenomena of interest to them and their advisor. In the chemical sciences, the range of research areas is quite broad. A few groups maintain their research area within a single classical field of analytical, inorganic, organic, physical, chemical education or theoretical chemistry. More commonly, research groups today are interdisciplinary, crossing boundaries across fields and across other disciplines, such as physics, biology, materials science, engineering and medicine.

What are the benefits of being involved in undergraduate research?

There are many benefits to undergraduate research, but the most important are:

• Learning, learning, learning. Most chemists learn by working in a laboratory setting. Information learned in the classroom is more clearly understood and it is more easily remembered once it has been put into practice. This knowledge expands through experience and further reading. From the learning standpoint, research is an extremely productive cycle.
• Experiencing chemistry in a real world setting. The equipment, instrumentation and materials used in research labs are generally more sophisticated, advanced, and of far better quality than those used in lab courses
• Getting the excitement of discovery. If science is truly your vocation, regardless of any negative results, the moment of discovery will be truly exhilarating. Your results are exclusive. No one has ever seen them before.
• Preparing for graduate school. A graduate degree in a chemistry-related science is mostly a research degree. Undergraduate research will not only give you an excellent foundation, but working alongside graduate students and post-doctorates will provide you with a unique opportunity to learn what it will be like.

Is undergraduate research required for graduation?

Many chemistry programs now require undergraduate research for graduation. There are plenty of opportunities for undergraduate students to get involved in research, either during the academic year, summer, or both. If your home institution is not research intensive, you may find opportunities at other institutions, government labs, and industries.

When should I get involved in undergraduate research?

Chemistry is an experimental science. We recommended that you get involved in research as early in your college life as possible. Ample undergraduate research experience gives you an edge in the eyes of potential employers and graduate programs.

While most mentors prefer to accept students in their research labs once they have developed some basic lab skills through general and organic lab courses, some institutions have programs that involve students in research projects the summer prior to their freshman year. Others even involve senior high school students in summer research programs. Ask your academic/departmental advisor about the options available to you.

What will I learn by participating in an undergraduate research program?

Conducting a research project involves a series of steps that start at the inquiry level and end in a report. In the process, you learn to:

• Conduct scientific literature searches
• Read, interpret and extract information from journal articles relevant to the project
• Design experimental procedures to obtain data and/or products of interest
• Operate instruments and implement laboratory techniques not usually available in laboratories associated with course work
• Interpret results, reach conclusions, and generate new ideas based on results
• Interact professionally (and socially) with students and professors within the research group, department and school as well as others from different schools, countries, cultures and backgrounds
• Communicate results orally and in writing to other peers, mentors, faculty advisors, and members of the scientific community at large via the following informal group meeting presentations, reports to mentor/advisor, poster presentations at college-wide, regional, national or international meetings; formal oral presentations at scientific meetings; or journal articles prepared for publication

How do I select an advisor?

This is probably the most important step in getting involved in undergraduate research. The best approach is multifaceted. Get informed about research areas and projects available in your department, which are usually posted on your departmental website under each professor’s name.

Talk to other students who are already involved in research. If your school has an  ACS Student Chapter , make a point to talk to the chapter’s members. Ask your current chemistry professor and lab instructor for advice. They can usually guide you in the right direction. If a particular research area catches your interest, make an appointment with the corresponding professor.

Let the professor know that you are considering getting involved in research, you have read a bit about her/his research program, and that you would like to find out more. Professors understand that students are not experts in the field, and they will explain their research at a level that you will be able to follow. Here are some recommended questions to ask when you meet with this advisor:

• Is there a project(s) within her/his research program suitable for an undergraduate student?
• Does she/he have a position/space in the lab for you?
• If you were to work in her/his lab, would you be supervised directly by her/him or by a graduate student? If it is a graduate student, make a point of meeting with the student and other members of the research group. Determine if their schedule matches yours. A night owl may not be able to work effectively with a morning person.
• Does she/he have funding to support the project? Unfunded projects may indicate that there may not be enough resources in the lab to carry out the project to completion. It may also be an indication that funding agencies/peers do not consider this work sufficiently important enough for funding support. Of course there are exceptions. For example, a newly hired assistant professor may not have external funding yet, but he/she may have received “start-up funds” from the university and certainly has the vote of confidence of the rest of the faculty. Otherwise he/she would not have been hired. Another classical exception is computational chemistry research, for which mostly fast computers are necessary and therefore external funding is needed to support research assistants and computer equipment only. No chemicals, glassware, or instrumentation will be found in a computational chemistry lab.
• How many of his/her articles got published in the last two or three years? When prior work has been published, it is a good indicator that the research is considered worthwhile by the scientific community that reviews articles for publication. Ask for printed references. Number of publications in reputable refereed journals (for example ACS journals) is an excellent indicator of the reputation of the researcher and the quality of his/her work.

Here is one last piece of advice: If the project really excites you and you get satisfactory answers to all your questions, make sure that you and the advisor will get along and that you will enjoy working with him/her and other members of the research group.

Remember that this advisor may be writing recommendation letters on your behalf to future employers, graduate schools, etc., so you want to leave a good impression. To do this, you should understand that the research must move forward and that if you become part of a research team, you should do your best to achieve this goal. At the same time, your advisor should understand your obligations to your course work and provide you with a degree of flexibility.

Ultimately, it is your responsibility to do your best on both course work and research. Make sure that the advisor is committed to supervising you as much as you are committed to doing the required work and putting in the necessary/agreed upon hours.

How much time should I allocate to research?

The quick answer is as much as possible without jeopardizing your course work. The rule of thumb is to spend 3 to 4 hours working in the lab for every credit hour in which you enroll. However, depending on the project, some progress can be achieved in just 3-4 hours of research/week. Most advisors would recommend 8-10 hours/week.

Depending on your project, a few of those hours may be of intense work and the rest may be spent simply monitoring the progress of a reaction or an instrumental analysis. Many research groups work on weekends. Saturdays are excellent days for long, uninterrupted periods of lab work.

What are some potential challenges?

• Time management . Each project is unique, and it will be up to you and your supervisor to decide when to be in the lab and how to best utilize the time available to move the project forward.
• Different approaches and styles . Not everyone is as clean and respectful of the equipment of others as you are. Not everyone is as punctual as you are. Not everyone follows safety procedures as diligently as you do. Some groups have established protocols for keeping the lab and equipment clean, for borrowing equipment from other members, for handling common equipment, for research meetings, for specific safety procedures, etc. Part of learning to work in a team is to avoid unnecessary conflict while establishing your ground to doing your work efficiently.
• “The project does not work.”  This is a statement that advisors commonly hear from students. Although projects are generally very well conceived, and it is people that make projects work, the nature of research is such that it requires patience, perseverance, critical thinking, and on many occasions, a change in direction. Thoroughness, attention to detail, and comprehensive notes are crucial when reporting the progress of a project.

Be informed, attentive, analytical, and objective. Read all the background information. Read user manuals for instruments and equipment. In many instances the reason for failure may be related to dirty equipment, contaminated reagents, improperly set instruments, poorly chosen conditions, lack of thoroughness, and/or lack of resourcefulness. Repeating a procedure while changing one parameter may work sometimes, while repeating the procedure multiple times without systematic changes and observations probably will not.

When reporting failures or problems, make sure that you have all details at hand. Be thorough in you assessment. Then ask questions. Advisors usually have sufficient experience to detect errors in procedures and are able to lead you in the right direction when the student is able to provide all the necessary details. They also have enough experience to know when to change directions. Many times one result may be unexpected, but it may be interesting enough to lead the investigation into a totally different avenue. Communicate with your advisor/mentor often.

Are there places other than my institution where I can conduct research?

Absolutely! Your school may be close to other universities, government labs and/or industries that offer part-time research opportunities during the academic year. There may also be summer opportunities in these institutions as well as in REU sites (see next question).

Contact your chemistry department advisor first. He/she may have some information readily available for you. You can also contact nearby universities, local industries and government labs directly or through the career center at your school. You can also find listings through ACS resources:

• Research Opportunities (US only)
• International Research Opportunities
• Internships and Summer Jobs

What are Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) sites? When should I apply for a position in one of them?

REU is a program established by the National Science Foundation (NSF) to support active research participation by undergraduate students at host institutions in the United States or abroad. An REU site may offer projects within a single department/discipline or it may have projects that are inter-departmental and interdisciplinary. There are currently over 70 domestic and approximately 5 international REU sites with a chemistry theme. Sites consist of 10-12 students each, although there are larger sites that supplement NSF funding with other sources. Students receive stipends and, in most cases, assistance with housing and travel.

Most REU sites invite rising juniors and rising seniors to participate in research during the summer. Experience in research is not required to apply, except for international sites where at least one semester or summer of prior research experience is recommended. Applications usually open around November or December for participation during the following summer. Undergraduate students supported with NSF funds must be citizens or permanent residents of the United States or its possessions. Some REU sites with supplementary funds from other sources may accept international students that are enrolled at US institutions.

• Get more information about REU sites

How do I prepare a scientific research poster?

Here are some links to sites with very useful information and samples.

• Anatomy of an Ace Research Paper
• Getting Ready for the ACS National Meeting
• Survivng Your First ACS Undergraduate Poster Presentation
• Six Ways Research Can Fire Up Your Chapter

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Speaking from experience, science can be fun. The only thing that matters is that you should always choose the theme/field that fascinates you the most. Chemistry, if done right, can give you more dopamine rush than riding a racing bike. The trick is to choose a chemistry research paper topic that moves your quarks when you’re writing about it. 

Table of Contents

Chemistry Research Topics: Biochemistry, Chemical, Organic, and more

Our chemistry research writers are not regular researchers but people who actually study and love chemistry. They have spent a lot of time unearthing some of the cool topics that could pump any chemistry geeks with an adrenaline rush. They have years of experience offering chemistry research paper writing services, so you can trust their work.  (Many people around the world already do and you can find that in testimonials on our  PhD Research Paper Writing Services  page.)

Physical chemistry research topics

• Laws of Thermodynamics
• Energy Balance
• Gases: Gas Law
• harles and Gay Lussac’s law
• General Ideal Gas Law
• The mass of a chemical compound
• The moles of an atomic species
• The flow of Fluids in Closed Ducts
• Impact of gravity on the fluids
• Strength effect of elasticity of fluid actions
• Surface tension in fluids
• Statistical Analysis Of Thermodynamic Properties
• Determination of the ideal gas constant
• pH determination
• Distillation of an azeotropic mixture
• Cubic equations of state
• Redox titrations
• Ideal solutions (liquids)
• Laboratory on the States of Matter
• Laboratory on the construction of an atom
• Research on molecular geometry
• Research on the density of bodies
• Kinetic studies of pyrolysis, combustion and gasification of various materials (organic and inorganic)
• Physicochemical Processes of Interaction of Metals with Biomaterials
• Photochemistry of Compounds of Environmental Interest
• Study of the kinetic, thermodynamic and catalytic activity of compounds
• Organic and inorganic academic and environmental interest
• Determination of heat of combustion of acetamidophenols
• Experimental determination of thermochemical properties of chemical compounds
• Experimental evaluation of thermal properties of dangerous organic liquids
• Synthesis and characterization of hydrogels based on acrylic acid
• Incorporation of salts and other chemical substances in acrylic acid/acrylamide hydrogels
• Physical chemistry of polymers and macromolecules
• Pharmaceutical physical chemistry
• Physical chemistry and material sciences
• Biomimetic chemistry
• Petrochemical and related sciences
• Physical chemistry of semiconductors
• Physical chemistry of extractive processes
• Physical chemistry of surfaces

We bet these chemistry essay topics have blown you away. Don’t worry we have more useful topics coming your way.

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Electrochemistry research topics

Below are some of the best topics for research paper about chemistry and its affiliate subjects. Check them out:

• Calibration of carbon paste electrodes modified with iron particles
• Effect of ionic strength on electrochemical detection
• Oxygenated groups present in graphite powder
• Electrochemical analysis
• Potentiometric titrations of functional groups
• Physical and chemical characterization of the modified and unmodified material 
• Electrochemical recovery of toxic metals
• Carbon paste electrodes
• Biological and bioelectrochemical reactors with an optimization approach based on computational methods
• Electrogeneration of oxidizing species
• Electroremediation of contaminated water and water soils
• Electrochemistry: Importance in Robotics and Nanotechnology
• Electrochemistry in Ecology and Environmental Processes
• How electrochemistry plays an important role in energy generation
• Photovoltaic cells and hybrid energy systems
• Nanostructured materials for fuel cells
• Solar Systems and Electrochemistry
• Biomolecular interactions and electroanalysis
• Chemical and electrochemical methods in disease diagnosis
• Synthesis and Electrochemical Properties of Hexacyanoferrate-Doped Polypyrrole
• Energy Storage in Hybrid Organic-Inorganic Materials
• Conducting Organic Polymers with Electroactive Dopants
• Electrochemistry for bioprocess engineering applications
• Electrochemical enhancement of microbial product formation
• Electron transfer of electrode-bound enzymes
• Transport mechanism and interfacial reactions within the oxide layer
• Oxide layer modelling
• Preparative electrochemistry or electrosynthesis
• Electrochemical methods in analytical chemistry
• Electrochemical synthesis methods
• Fuel cell technology in Technical Chemistry 
• Electrochemical reactions
• Phase boundary electrode-electrolyte
• Phase boundary between an electronic conductor (electrode) and an ionic conductor (electrolyte)
• Applications of electrochemistry
• Reduction of metal salts for the production of base metals, mainly by electrolysis
• Use of electrolytic metal deposition in electroplating
• Provision of an electrical voltage, especially for mobile applications
• History of Electrochemistry

We know your chemistry research projects are incomplete without these eyecatching topics. Read them and wisely write on these subject to amaze your professor.

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Organic Chemistry research topics

• A novel process for the production of sophisticated molecules
• Addition of amino sugars to acetylenic compounds
• Environmental remediation and as a reaction containment medium
• Intermolecular interactions for the molecular recognition of peptides and proteins
• Synthesis of glycosylamines from disaccharides and lipooligosaccharides
• Catalysis with metal and organocatalysts, photocatalysis, natural product synthesis, unnatural amino acids and peptide foldamers
• Development and modification of gels based on polymers for use in drug delivery
• Reusable catalyst makes oxidation of CH bonds with oxygen easier and more efficient
• Structural analysis of nodulation factors produced by bacteria of the genus Rhizobium
• Imidazopyridines as new materials
• Effects of Ultra-Violet Light on Activation of Oxygen
• Synthesis of large unsymmetrical imines by a palladium-catalyzed cross-coupling reaction
• Improved pharmaceuticals thanks to fluorine
• Application of the hydroxy-ketone reductive grouping in obtaining trans-fused polyethers
• Role of Biochemistry in the creation of Antibiotics
• Application of the olefin metathesis (RCM) reaction in the synthesis of Orthocondensated polyoxepanes
• Sugars in green olives
• Synthetic applications of d-glucose derivatives
• Synthesis, structure, coordination and applications in asymmetric catalysis
• Natural product synthesis and convergent technologies
• Activation of growth factors for fibroblasts by glycosaminoglycans effect
• Thiols, preparation and handling
• Biotransformations of industrial interest catalyzed by fungal peroxygenases
• Carbohydrate multivalent systems functionalize proteins and surfaces
• Fused n-heterocyclic carbenes in biaryl systems
• Hair structure
• Biochemistry for bioremediation
• Chemical and structural characterization of lignin and lipids of lignocellulosic materials of industrial interest
• Physicochemical characterization of citronella, soapstone, and eucalyptus essential oil
• Electrophilic Substitution Reactions: Synthesis of Nitrobenzene
• Essential oils: uses and properties
• Activation of growth factors for fibroblasts by glycosaminoglycans

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Inorganic Chemistry research topics

• Soil and water contamination by inorganic compounds
• Synthesis and characterization of Coordination Compounds and their use as homogeneous catalysts
• Free Radicals and Antioxidants
• Analytical Chemistry associated with the study of inorganic compounds
• Quantum molecular modeling and mechanics
• Inorganic Materials
• Hydrogen reactivity with inorganic compounds
• Bond theory analysis
• Chemistry of some transition elements
• Boric Acid Preparation
• Types of inorganic chemical reactions
• Introduction to inorganic chemistry
• Study of the atomic spectrum
• Crystal defects in inorganic chemistry
• Explosives and violent reactions in inorganic compounds
• Objective characterization of wines through aroma components
• Microstructural characterization of nanoparticles and magnetic “nano-composites” of iron
• Chemical, morphological, mineralogical, and genesis characters of the salt mines
• Physical and chemical characteristics of the soils occupied by olive groves
• Theoretical analysis and development of instrumentation to apply the new technique of thermal analysis at a constant rate of reaction
• Alteration of rocks and soil formation in Utah
• The catalytic activity of 4f metal oxides in the decomposition of various carboxylic acids and alcohols
• Activation of ethylene and carbon dioxide by molybdenum complexes
• Platinum promoting action on nickel catalysts supported on activated Bentonite
• Homogeneous catalysis (with an organometallic, transition metal, lanthanide and representative compounds)
• Methods of synthesis of organometallic compounds assisted by microwaves.
• Design of molecular precursors with relevance in materials chemistry.
• Chemistry of inorganic heterocycles.
• Immobilization of organometallic and coordination compounds in polypropylene membranes.

Read More: High School Research Topics

Biochemistry research topics

• Bioinformatics and Computational Biology
• Cell differentiation and metabolism
• Biochemistry of Individual Molecules
• Enterobacteriaceae envelopes: modulation of their structure in response to environmental cues and impact on pathogenicity
• Neuroplasticidad y Neurogenética
• Environmental biotechnology applied to water decontamination.
• Reproductive Aging
• Neurobiochemistry
• Regulatory proteins of iron metabolism
• Iron deficiency anaemia and cardiovascular disease
• Iron deficiency anaemia and oxidative stress
• Nutritional anaemias independent workers
• Food incompatibilities for iron absorption
• Evaluation of anaemia and iron deficiency in schoolchildren
• Iron deficiency anaemia and evaluation of school performance
• Iron deficiency anaemia in students of Educational Centers
• Copper Levels and Oxidative Stress in the Elderly
• Iron Levels and Oxidative Stress in the Elderly
• Evaluation of transcription factors (surgical samples)
• Biochemical markers in oxidative stress
• Antioxidant activity in irradiated food products
• Kinetics of the reactivity of antioxidants in food
• Evaluation of oxidative stress in various pathological states
• Iron levels in the Elderly
• Copper Levels in the Elderly
• Evaluation of the synergistic effect in a mixture of antioxidant compounds
• Antioxidant activity in medicinal plants
• Food patterns and evaluation of antioxidant capacity in food
• Markers in Diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease
• Biochemical markers in Diabetes mellitus
• Chemotherapy with redesigned Methotrexate
• The Biosynthesis of triglycerides or triacylglycerides
• Consequences of suffering from coronary disease
• What medications should be administered in patients with osteoporosis?
• Appearances of physiological alterations in older adults
• The impact of the administration of clindamycin, amikacin, and ceftazidime in hospitalized patients
• Pharmaceutical advice to reduce stress
• Dyslipidemia in Diabetes mellitus
• Diabetes mellitus and transcription factors (Cell culture)
• Factors that lead to cholesterol excretion
• Nutritional evaluation of pregnant diabetic mothers
• How do blood alcohol levels influence drivers involved in traffic accidents?
• Pleiotropic effects of oral hypoglycemic drugs
• Importance of eating foods rich in carotenoids
• The biochemical and toxicological impact of lead with environmental contact
• The importance of emotions in the intervention of our digestive system
• Lifestyles and Diabetes mellitus
• Adiposity in Diabetes mellitus
• Diabetological education of the patient with Diabetes mellitus
• The impact of drug administration

Read More:  Nursing Research Topics

Nano / Nuclear Chemistry research topics

• Modeling of metallic nanostructures
• Modeling of nanostructures supported on oxides
• Development of advanced nanomaterials with specific
• Nanomaterials in the fight against cancer and spinal cord injuries in laboratory rats for neuronal reconnection
• Study of the effects of radiation on the structure and properties of nanomaterials
• Development of nanostructured substrates for Raman spectroscopy applications
• Implants in neural tissues of the spinal cord to promote lost communication between the brain and the rest of the body
• Design and preparation of theragnostic radiopharmaceuticals
• Research and development of radiopharmaceuticals based on nanosystems for use in molecular nuclear medicine
• Hydrogen storage, the capture of toxic gases, improvement of solar cells
• Geometric optimization of nanostructures using classical methods
• Calculation of energies and molecular properties
• Synthesis of supercapacitors with carbon nanotubes
• Simulation of high-resolution transmission electron microscopy images of nanostructures
• Development of bactericidal dressings based on metallic nanoparticles
• Modernization of the ININ X-Ray Diffraction Laboratory
• Thin coatings of transparent materials with high hardness

Read More:  Psychology Research Paper Topics

Green Chemistry research topics

• Green chemistry and environmental sustainability
• Strategies to make organocatalysis “greener”
• The Chemical Knowledge and Environmental Question
• Approach to school green chemistry, through green protocols
• Sustainable Chemistry: Nature, purposes, and scope
• Postgraduate studies in sustainable chemistry
• Didactic knowledge of the content on green chemistry
• Photochemical synthesis by sunlight
• Green Chemistry: A Present and Future Theme for Chemistry Education
• The environmental dimension of experimentation in the teaching of chemistry
• Role of Chemistry and its teaching in the construction of a sustainable future
• A foundation for the incorporation of green chemistry in organic chemistry curricula
• Contribution of green chemistry to the construction of a socially responsible science
• Aspects of the pedagogical knowledge of the content of green chemistry in university professors of chemistry
• Asymmetric organocatalyzed reactions in the absence of a solvent
• Green Chemistry for Postgraduates

Read More:  Social Work Research Topics

Archaeological Chemistry research topics

• Archaeochemistry of the United States
• Archaeochemistry of Egyptian Pyramids
• Archaeochemistry of Mohanjodaro
• Archaeochemistry of Cambodia
• Archaeological dating, characterization, prospecting, and conservation
• The role of bio-deteriorated ceramics in the formation processes of archaeological sites
• Study of biodeterioration in archaeological ceramics from Mayan Ruins
• Deterioration of ceramic fragments due to the action of lichens
• Applicability of preventive conservation to archaeological ceramics impacted by biodeterioration

Our highly skilled professionals have provided you with superb research topics in chemistry. You can choose anyone matching your speciality and start working on making your paper a piece of art.

Conclusion:

Never believe anyone who says you can’t go for a chemistry degree or PhD. Just listen to your heart and it will all make sense. Chemistry is one of the coolest subjects. If you do it right, with a chemistry research topic that inspires you, then no one can stop you from having your chemical breakthrough. Believe in yourself and the world will see your success like a mushroom cloud. 

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Do you find identifying suitable chemistry research topics difficult? You are not alone! Many students consider it challenging and time-consuming to choose an interesting chemistry topic for a research paper. In this blog post, we will discuss various research topics in chemistry to help simplify your research process. Continue reading to familiarize yourself with ideas from different fields and academic levels. Apart from defining research topics and discussing how to select one, we have provided examples to help kick-start your research project or assignments. Got a deadline approaching fast? Entrust your chemistry research paper to professional writers. Our academic service proceeds all ‘ write my paper for me ’ inquiries quickly and efficiently. Get your paper written now by an expert!

What Are Chemistry Research Topics?

Chemistry is a field of science that covers the structure, composition, and properties of elements and compounds. As a student taking this subject, you will encounter multiple experiments, chemical reactions, and analytical study methods. This branch of science can be subdivided into multiple areas, including organic, inorganic, biochemistry, physical, analytical, and nuclear science, among others. Chemistry research paper topics are talking points related to the branches of science outlined above. To ensure that all learning objectives are met, instructors may require students to work on various topics in chemistry. You would be expected to source your chemistry research topics ideas from all possible branches. In one instance, your topic could be associated with analytical science, in another - with practical discussions, which is an entirely different thing despite both areas being categorized as chemistry subfields.

Characteristics of Good Chemistry Research Topics

Selecting a good research topic for chemistry plays a vital role in determining the probability of success when writing your paper. It is, therefore, important to know the characteristics of good chemistry topics for a research paper. Although you can derive discussions from many sub-areas, these research topic ideas share many common characteristics. A great research topic should be:

• Precise, meaningful, clear, and straightforward
• Analytical and researchable using logical methodologies
• Of theoretical or practical significance
• Supported by numerous academic evidence and sources.

How to Choose a Chemistry Research Topic?

Chemistry is a broad subject with multiple research areas. If you are not keen enough, you may easily get lost in its variety and fail to select a congenial title. So, how do you deal with this issue? In a nutshell, the process comes down to two aspects – your passion and competence. Below are step-by-step guidelines that you can follow to determine interesting topics about chemistry:

• Pick chemistry research topics with your knowledge capabilities in mind. Do not choose a topic that is beyond your academic level.
• Choose something that is interesting to you. If you are fascinated with the selected topic, you will find responding to the research questions to be much simpler.
• Select a research title that is convenient to work on due to the sufficient amount and availability of existing evidence and references.
• Ensure that the chosen chemistry topics for research paper are within the subfield you are majoring in and that it meets your instructor’s requirements.

Once you select the most appropriate title, see how to write a research paper like an expert.

Chemistry Research Paper Topics List

There are many research topics for chemistry to choose from. In this section, we have compiled examples of the best topics from various sub-areas. Below is a list of chemistry research topics for papers:

• Latest developments in DNA technology.
• Negative effects of using pesticides in food production.
• Importance and potential drawbacks of using fertilizer in commercial agriculture.
• Acids and bases: composition, properties, and applications.
• Industrial chemicals and environmental pollution.
• Dangers and side effects of using ibuprofen.
• Acid-base neutralization process.
• Air pollution implication on global warming and climate change.
• Ageing and the brain.
• Catalytic reaction mechanisms.

The chemistry research topics list above is created by drawing ideas from different sub-areas, thus covering a significant part of scholars’ inquiries.

Interesting Topics in Chemistry

In some instances, one may select a research topic because it is just fascinating. There are interesting chemistry topics that can explain intriguing phenomena in your day-to-day life. Alternatively, you can also opt for something related to essential issues in the current society. Here are sample chemistry interesting topics you can research into:

• Composition and effects of e-cigarettes.
• Food dye composition.
• Measuring electrical conductivity in a salt solution.
• How to change a penny’s color to gold.
• The scientific explanation of foam formation.
• Silicon usage in cosmetic surgery.
• Evidence and application of surface tension in day-to-day life.
• Examining pesticide residue in farm products from different grocery stores.
• How does molecule composition affect the physical appearance of things?
• Sodium metal reaction on water surfaces.
• How to separate dissolved sugar from water.
• How to clean up oil spills at sea.
• Rust formation on metal surfaces.
• How to chemically remove rust from stainless steel.
• The science behind turning boiling water into “snow” in a cold winter.

Easy Chemistry Research Topics

The science studied in high schools is way simpler compared to postgraduate one. You can find easy chemistry topics to research if you focus on certain academic levels and sub-areas. For example, physical chemistry has easy chemistry topics to do research paper on. On the other side, inorganic or analytical sub-areas tend to offer scientific research research topics that are more technical. The list below outlines easy topic examples you can pick from:

• Determining the percentage composition of oxygen in the air.
• Patterns in the periodic table.
• Atomic theory: primary principles and applications.
• Chemical and physical properties of starch.
• Determining the pH level of various liquids.
• Properties of acids and bases.
• Why is glass the preferred material in laboratories?
• Balancing chemical equations.
• Analyzing different chemical bonds.
• Alkali metals and their properties.
• General characteristics of metals.
• Noble gasses: properties and reaction characteristics.
• Water purification methods.
• The periodic table: its historical background.
• Alkaline earth metals: properties and reactivity.

Innovative Research Topics in Chemistry

Innovative chemistry topics for research paper relate to new ideas and ways to go about things. Using these ground-breaking topics related to chemistry, you can discuss new materials or methodologies. If you are interested in innovative research topics, here are some examples you can borrow from:

• Gene modification in medical chemistry .
• Improved cancer treatment using bacteria-based biohybrid microrobots.
• New methods used to detect explosive residues.
• Studying the molecular makeup of particles in space.
• Substitute for pesticides in farming.
• Nanophotonics in aeronautics.
• Nanomaterials production process and techniques.
• Clean energy alternatives for fossil fuels.
• Photocatalysis usage in 3D printing technology.
• Biodegradable polymers as alternatives for plastics.
• Silicon dioxide usage in solar cells.
• Chemical reactions in lithium-ion batteries.
• Self-healing concrete: basic principles.
• New materials for lightweight planes and vehicles.
• Polymer analysis in a restricted environment.

Cool Chemistry Research Topics

Sometimes, our title selection might be guided by how cool and fun the study results will be. If you are looking for cool chemistry topics to research on, you are in the right place. We have compiled some cool chemistry topics for you to choose from.

• How World War II influenced computational chemistry.
• How do chemicals in our brains create different moods?
• Composition and properties of laughing gas.
• European alchemy: historical background and its impact on modern science.
• Developing a film at home: chemicals required and process.
• Why lemon juice stops apples from browning.
• Different flame colors and their scientific explanation.
• Using a potato to light a bulb.
• Principles of chromatography.
• Utilizing cloud seeding in alleviating drought conditions.
• Finding iron in a mixture of metals.
• Gas chromatography: how it works and its applications.
• Application of vibrational spectroscopy.
• Surface tension and the dish soap experiment.
• How to make a homemade water filter.

Have you spotted any ideas but can’t get the research process started? Contact our professional writing service where you can pay for research paper and be sure that you will get outstanding results within your deadline. 

Intriguing Chemistry Topics for Research

There are many chemistry topics to write about. However, not all topics are intriguing (and frankly, most are the other way around). Below are topic examples that can instantly draw readers’ attention:

• Non-existing chemical compounds.
• Molecular structure of artificial honey as compared to natural honey.
• Stem cell studies: ethical implications.
• Principles of polymerase chain reaction and DNA replication.
• Organic chemistry applications in our daily living.
• Chemicals as weapons of mass destruction.
• How does adding sugar to a soft drink affect its density?
• Synthetic molecules in the pharmaceutical industry .
• Aerosol formation and its application in body spray manufacture.
• Analyzing the gasoline production process.
• Benzene molecular structure and its use in the cosmetic industry.
• Why are 96,000,000 black balls dumped into the LA reservoir?
• Water recycling methods.
• The discovery of oxygen.
• Importance of esters in our day-to-day living.

If you closely review the research topics for chemistry paper above, you will find them arousing your curiosity much more than the ones in other sections. These topics will challenge your initial line of thinking or introduce you to the concepts that just stand out.

Unique Chemistry Research Topics

There are some chemistry paper topics that are rarely worked on by students. People ignore these topics because they are either complex or lack adequate conclusive information from previous studies. If you are brave enough and wish to have a unique presentation, you can consider the research topics in chemistry below:

• Organosilicon compounds and their use.
• Nucleophiles and electrophiles.
• Molecular structure of Teflon and its industrial application.
• Sodium azide usage in automobile airbags.
• Dangers of COVID-19 tests that use sodium azide as the reaction reagent.
• Chemical composition of steroids and their effects on human beings.
• Artificial diamond production process.
• Insulin production biotechnology.
• Evolution of lethal injection.
• Effects of chiral class drugs on human health.
• Chemical residues in livestock.
• Artificial organs and their potential implication on transplantation.
• Role of nanoreactors in nanotechnology and biotechnology.
• Dangers of phosgene to human health.
• Production of dry ice.

Popular Chemistry Research Paper Topics

Unlike the unique study subjects discussed in the previous section, popular topics relating to chemistry are widely researched. Students favor these topics due to reasons like their simplicity, availability of adequate evidence, and their relevance to current issues. You can pick a hot topic in chemistry from the list below:

• Metal oxide usage in electronics.
• Importance of nitrogen to human survival.
• How do temperature changes affect chemical reactions?
• Lewis structure for ionic compounds.
• Analysis of the hydrophobic effect.
• Hydrogen as an alternative to fossil fuel.
• Application of thermodynamics law in our lives.
• pH level calculations and analysis.
• Gas laws and their application.
• Why is Earth viewed as a closed thermodynamic system?
• Redox reactions and their industrial applications.
• Decomposition process of polymers.
• The anomalous expansion of water.
• Impact of fluoride ion on dental health .
• The use of lithium, magnesium, and calcium compounds in clinical medicine.

>> View more: Medical Research Paper Topics

Controversial Chemistry Topics for Papers

Just like in any other subject, there exist chemistry project topics that are controversial in nature. People are understandably more passionate about some subject matters compared to others. Discussions related to, for instance, chemical usage in battlefields and the health effects of using certain chemicals tend to attract heated debates. Below are some controversial topics in chemistry that you can write about:

• Biochemicals usage in warfare.
• Impact of fast-food chemicals on the human brain.
• Gene modification in human embryos.
• Bioconjugation techniques and how they are used in drug delivery.
• Synthetic molecules replication techniques.
• Use of lethal injection in execution of criminals.
• Ethical justification for euthanasia.
• Manufacture of chemical poisons.
• Fritz Haber’s controversial inventions.
• Artificial organs and their role in healthcare.
• Electromagnetic energy conversion to chemical energy.
• Dangers of using fertilizer in farming.
• Analyzing the water memory effect.
• Synthesis of food from non-edible items.
• Bio-inspired molecular machines and their applications.

Chemistry Research Ideas for Students

Students are often required to work on some chemistry project ideas to successfully complete their course. Depending on the sub-area one specializes in, and the academic level, research matters will vary significantly. For instance, chemistry undergraduate research project ideas are incomparable to highschool research titles. Some subject matters are only suitable for professional research. This section sorts the research ideas into their respective academic levels.

Chemistry Research Topics for High School

Chemistry research project ideas for highschool students are relatively easy compared to higher academic levels. The tasks are not very demanding in terms of the research methodologies used and the time required to complete them. At this level, students are introduced to the basic concepts of the subject. Common chemistry topics for high school are outlined in the list below.

• Acids and bases in the reduction-oxidation reaction.
• Importance of studying chemicals and chemical processes in high school.
• Ionization techniques for the mass spectrometry process.
• Avogadro’s Law: analysis, formulae, and application.
• Thermochemistry lab experiments.
• Laboratory safety rules.
• The hydrolysis analysis.
• Acids: structural composition, properties, and use.
• Noble gasses configuration.
• States of matter and their characteristics.
• Optimizing indoor plants life through chemistry.
• Role of enzymes in chemical and biological reactions.
• Thermal effects of chemical reactions.
• The law of multiple proportions in chemical reactions.
• Constant and changing variables in Boyle’s law .

Chemistry Research Topics for College Students

Chemistry project ideas for college often require students to dive deep into a subject. Rather than explaining the basic concepts, you may be instructed to apply them in addressing problems. A college chemistry project will require you to dedicate more time and conduct more research. Below are some of the title ideas for college students and undergraduates:

• How much energy is produced from burning nuts and chips?
• Dangers of using radon in construction and potential solutions.
• Chemical composition of aspirin and its effect on human physiology.
• Green chemistry application in the food industry.
• Phosphorescence versus fluorescence.
• Dihydroxyacetone phosphate conversion.
• Big data and biocomputing in chemical studies.
• Thermoelectric properties of materials.
• Artificial organic tissue development in laboratories.
• Nuclear fusion: primary concepts and applications.
• Power production process in lithium nickel batteries.
• Medico-biological importance of group 3B and 4B elements.
• Global cycle of biologically active elements.
• Importance of chemical knowledge in cancer treatment.
• Inorganic materials usage in the military.

Chemistry Research Topics in Different Fields

Chemistry can be divided into many sub-areas. Each subfield has interesting chemistry topics to research into. To choose a research topic in chemistry, you need to first determine a sub-area you would wish to specialize in. However, even within these fields, there are still many title options to choose from. To help reduce the confusion and simplify the selection process, we have categorized potential research discussions into their respective sub-areas.

Organic Chemistry Research Topics

Organic chemistry mainly involves studying the structure, composition, properties, and reaction of carbon-based compounds. It is among the most commercially applied subfields, which makes organic chemistry research paper topics very common. I am sure you must have encountered products manufactured using organic chemistry principles within your surroundings. If you wish to learn more about these products, you can explore these latest research topics in organic chemistry:

• Pain relief medicine: chemical structure and composition.
• Composition, use, and effects of polymers.
• Retin-A usage in acne treatment.
• Organic chemistry usage and application in daily life.
• Types of organic compounds isomerism.
• Aromatic hydrocarbons as industrial raw materials.
• Alcohol hydrophilicity in aqueous solutions.
• Physical and chemical properties of polyhydric alcohols.
• Synthetic polymer applications: synthetic fiber, Teflon, and isoprene rubber.
• Fetal alcohol syndrome: types and symptoms.
• Structure and properties of phenols.
• The application of organic chemistry in birth control.
• Nucleic acid stability.
• Parameters affecting proton chemical shifts.
• Structure and properties of lipids.

Inorganic Chemistry Research Topics

This branch deals with the study of structure, composition, and properties of materials that do not contain carbon. Research paper topics for inorganic chemistry focus on metals, minerals, and inorganic compounds. The list below compiles chemistry projects topics and ideas related to inorganic chemistry.

• How to create new and improve existing alloys.
• Implication of inorganic chemistry on the environment.
• Application of inorganic chemistry in the cosmetic industry.
• Interaction between sulfuric acid and organic materials.
• Lattice energy and enthalpy for different ionic bonds.
• Characteristics of different types of nucleosyntheses.
• Uniqueness of hydrogen bonds and polarity.
• Hard and soft acids and bases ( HSAB ) theory.
• Dalton’s Law: principles and applications.
• Structure of a gemstone and how it impacts its appearance.
• Relationship between inorganic and biochemistry.
• Parameters affecting Bronsted-Lowry acidity.
• Crystal field theory: analysis and disadvantages.
• Application of angular overlap model.
• Primary laws of photochemistry.

Analytical Chemistry Research Topics

The determination of the objects’ primary makeup of objects is the main interest of this branch. Various analytical methods, including spectroscopy, chromatography, and electroanalytical techniques, are often discussed in the subfield. As such, many analytical chemistry research paper topics focus on these or other analysis techniques. Below is a list of research topics on analytical chemistry:

• Analytical techniques used in forensic science.
• Examining the electroanalytical techniques.
• Importance of analytical chemistry to the environment.
• Miniaturization and its use in analyzing pharmaceutical substances.
• Evaluating the working principles of activation analysis.
• Gravimetric analysis principles.
• GMOs usage and their potential hazards to human health.
• Potentiometric measurement methods.
• Liquid and gas chromatography.
• Spectroscopy methods and their use in detecting and quantifying molecular and structural composition of samples.
• Dispersive X-ray analysis of tissues.
• Analytical methods for determining the side effects of ibuprofen usage.
• Benefits of the isomerism framework.
• Acid-base titration as a quantitative analysis technique.
• Application of spectroscopy in medicine.

Environment Chemistry Topics for Research

The apparent global warming and climate change threats have led to the development of a new area of study. This sub-area has project topics in chemistry that explore the impact of human activity on the environment and the potential solutions for slowing down and reversing the climate change process. Common environmental chemistry related topics include:

• Negative effects of deep-sea mining.
• Ground water contamination: causes, dangers, and potential solutions.
• Oil spillage and its effect on marine life.
• Effect of heat engines on the environment.
• Safe disposal of toxic waste.
• Global warming: causes and potential remedies.
• Potential alternatives to fossil fuels.
• Innovative methods to minimize pesticide usage in agriculture.
• Cultivated meat as an alternative to livestock farming.
• How efficient is artificial photosynthesis.
• The Chernobyl ecological disaster.
• Analysis of life-cycle assessment (LCA).
• Environmental benefits of using energy-saving lamps.
• Environmental pollution by nano toxins.
• Potential solutions for global warming.

Need more ideas on the environment? Check our list of the best environmental research topics for students. 

Physical Chemistry Research Topics

Physical chemistry is the study of the behavior of matter. Physical chemistry topics for research papers focus on analyzing the physical and chemical properties of atoms and molecules and how they interact with each other. You can use a project topic on chemistry from the list below:

• Surface tension and its impact on mixtures.
• Diffusion of liquid and gasses.
• Reaction of bromine under UV rays.
• Pressure effect in chemical reactions.
• Bonding between atoms and molecules.
• Analyzing Schrodinger’s equation.
• Hess’s laws: principles and application.
• Effects of intermolecular forces on the melting point of a material.
• Entropy law of thermodynamics.
• Relationship between quantum mechanics and atomic orbitals.
• Chemical kinetics in pharmacy.
• Analyzing the physical and chemical indicators of milk.
• How to determine atoms’ electron configuration.
• Why isotopes exist.
• Determining the group based on its successive ionization energies.

Chemical Engineering Research Topics

In this section, we will discuss research topics of chemistry related to the design and application of chemical processes. Here are some of the chemical research project ideas that will impress your instructor:

• Chemical engineering concepts in the food production industry.
• Analyzing wastewater treatment techniques.
• Conversion of rocket fuel to energy.
• Analyzing different mixture separation techniques.
• Industrial application of chemical engineering concepts.
• Non-reactive mass balances and mass balance with reaction.
• Binary distillation and its application.
• Gas absorption usage in the chemical industry.
• Reaction kinetics in a plug flow reactor.
• Water splitting for hydrogen production.
• The application of MIMO theory in the control of chemical process operation.
• Chemical engineering applications in the healthcare sector.
• Nanofiltration member usages in pharmaceutical wastewater treatment.
• General overview of microfluidics.
• Production of high-quality foam.

Nuclear Chemistry Research Topics

A nuclear chemistry research project deals with radioactivity-related processes. You may encounter this branch of science in nuclear energy production, military applications, and even in the hospital. Some of the researchable topics in chemistry of nuclei transformation include:

• Computation of an element’s half-life.
• Radioactive elements in real life and how they are being used.
• Nuclear fusion: the process and its function.
• Types of radioactive decay.
• Effects of radiation on biological systems.
• Safe radioactive waste disposal.
• Application of nuclear science in the healthcare sector.
• Analyzing the three types of radiation.
• How to destroy toxic organic compounds using irradiation.
• Is there a possibility of cold fusion ever happening?
• Biological application of radiochemistry.
• Dangerous consequences of ionizing versus non-ionizing radiation.
• Optical chemo sensors: principles and applications.
• Interaction between water and radioactive materials.
• Radiation accident cases in human history.

There is a vast assortment of research ideas for your study on our platform. Be it biology research topics or nursing research paper topics , we have all of them here.

Bottom Line on Chemistry Research Topics

In sum, chemistry is a broad subject with multiple sub-areas. Depending on your preference, you can choose interesting chemistry research topics for papers from the many subfields. Apart from selecting a good research subject, also remember that is always mandatory to adhere to proper writing procedures! Besides, select chemistry essay topics that will keep you excited till the end of research, as you wouldn’t want to quit in the middle and switch to another topic. If you combine all provided tips together, you will definitely find it easy to select and work on research in chemistry topics.

Our academic writing service is always happy to help. Our platform was created by students who also struggled. So the writers deliver excellent papers focusing on fast and high-quality writing. 

Joe Eckel is an expert on Dissertations writing. He makes sure that each student gets precious insights on composing A-grade academic writing.

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Electrochemical acid–base reactions can be fine tuned to control reactivity

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Two new ways to control and optimise electrochemical reactions at electrified interfaces have been discovered. These insights could help to design new catalysts for battery technology and hydrogen production, crucial for the green transition.

Electrolysis involves passing an electric current through a substance to induce chemical reactions, a particularly important process for green hydrogen production and battery technology. However, there is limited understanding of acid–base chemistry at the metal/water interfaces where key steps of electrocatalysis take place. Although it is theorised that acid–base chemistry at the electrochemical interface differs from that in bulk, the relationship between these effects, as well as assessing a key metric – the acid dissociation constant (p K a ) values – quantitatively has been difficult.

Scientists from Ruhr University Bochum have now discovered two factors that govern the complex behaviour at electrified gold/water interfaces. A new model to rationalise shifts in the acid dissociation constant values at metal aqueous interfaces has been proposed based on two mechanisms: local hydrophobicity and local electric fields.

The team used surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) in combination with modelling to study local and site-specific acid–base chemistry properties of the amino acid glycine. ‘Vibrational spectroscopy is a very good choice because [SERS] is very sensitive and allows you to reliably get the information about the change in protonation state of the two polar groups of the molecule,’ comments lead study author Simone Pezzotti .

Source: © 2024 Steffen Murke et al

Proposed mechanism tuning acid–base chemistry at the electrified metal–water interface. From left to right, the sketches illustrate that local hydrophobicity at the interface destabilises the zwitterionic form of glycine

‘[Glycine] has two groups that can take or give a proton and when you play with it, you can see that it’s not even a question of local pH,’ says Pezzotti. Compared with the known p K a values of glycine in bulk, the p K a value of both carboxyl and amino groups at the gold/water interface is shifted towards neutrality – thus, the pH window for the existence of the glycine zwitterion is reduced. Simulations confirmed that the two charged groups are partially desolvated at both gold/water and air/water interfaces.

‘From these simulations, we could understand why this zwitterion shrinks and the reason is that at the interface, even though gold interacts very well with water, we do have hydrophobicity.’ A hydrophobic water interface very close to the metal destabilises the zwitterion – it becomes like mixing water and oil. The local pH value at a hydrophobic interface provides a very different solvation environment to the bulk one. ‘This provides a direct quantitative measure of how much less good as a solvent water is when it’s close to a surface than when it is far away,’ explains Ian McCrum , an electrochemistry researcher at Clarkson University in the US, who wasn’t involved with the work.

This was not the only outcome observed – the reduced stability of the zwitterion becomes amplified with increasing applied potential. The local electric field (the sum of the fields from the electrified gold surface, as well as the interfacial water) can either stabilise or destabilise a bond. Electric fields play a significant role as they can catalyse chemical reactions in liquid water – breaking and forming bonds. ‘If we fix the pH and we just play with the voltage, we can induce chemistry,’ says Pezzotti, adding that additional local electric fields induce proton transfer on the glycine. The local electric fields drive the protonation of amino groups not only in hydrophobic solutes, but also in hydrophilic ones.

‘I think that [the research] is going to move us in the direction of understanding how solvent and electric field work together to affect reactions occurring at surfaces,’ says McCrum. The results show that acid–base chemistry at electrified interfaces can be tuned by not only variations in hydrophobicity but also by a variation in applied voltage. ‘There are really a lot of opportunities to tune these two contributions and … tune the chemistry,’ adds Pezzotti.

S Murke et al , J. Am. Chem. Soc. , 2024, DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c13633  

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Shedding light on perovskite hydrides using a new deposition technique

Researchers develop a methodology to grow single-crystal perovskite hydrides, enabling accurate hydride conductivity measurements..

Perovskites are currently a hot topic in materials science due to their remarkable properties and potential applications, including sustainable energy technologies, catalysis, and optoelectronics, to name a few. Perovskites hydrides, whose molecular structure contains hydrogen anions (H − ), attract special attention because of their hydrogen-derived properties. Many experts believe these compounds could be key in the study and development of hydrogen storage technologies, such as fuel cells and next-generation batteries, as well as energy-saving superconducting cables.

Even though perovskite hydrides represent a unique platform for applied materials science, characterizing their physical properties has proven challenging. In particular, measuring the H − conductivity of these crystalline materials is not straightforward. In most studies, researchers use powdered samples in their characterization analyses, meaning that H − conduction is affected by the irregularities ('grain boundaries') in the crystals. To get true values for the intrinsic H − conductivity of a given perovskite, one needs to produce a uniform, continuous single crystal with as few imperfections as possible. For complex ternary perovskite hydrides, achieving this is difficult, and very few research groups have attempted it.

In a recent study made available online on 25 March 2024 and published in ACS Applied Energy Materials on 8 April 2024, a team of researchers including Doctoral course student Erika Fukushi from the Department of Regional Environment Systems of the Graduate School of Engineering and Science at Shibaura Institute of Technology (SIT), Japan, decided to stand up to the challenge. Using an innovative approach to produce high-quality single crystals, the team performed some of the first intrinsic conduction measurements on ternary perovskite hydrides. This work is co-authored by Fumiya Mori, Kota Munefusa, and Hiroyuki Oguchi from SIT and Takayuki Harada from the National Institute for Materials Science.

To produce the perovskite single crystals, the researchers developed and pioneered a powerful method called 'H-radical reactive infrared laser deposition.' This approach involves shining an infrared laser onto a rotating disk-shaped pellet containing the metal atoms of the desired perovskite. In their study, the researchers wanted to produce MLiH 3 (where M is either Sr or Ba), and thus the pellet was made of a crudely compressed mix of MH 2 and LiH powders. As this pellet was heated up by the laser, the metals were released from it into a surrounding H-radical-rich atmosphere, obtained by injecting hydrogen into the reaction chamber through a heated tungsten filament.

Nearby the pellet was a carefully selected substrate, onto which the hydrogen and metals spontaneously combined to form the desired perovskite. As atoms began to pile up onto the substrate, they spontaneously arranged and aligned themselves in a consistent manner with the crystal layers below them. This led to the epitaxial growth of a nanofilm on the substrate. "Our approach is unique in its ability to perform deposition in a radical hydrogen atmosphere, significantly promoting the reaction between the metal and hydrogen," explains Fukushi. "This results in the synthesis of single-phase hydride thin films by fully hydrogenating the metal atoms that naturally tend to persist in the film."

The researchers performed multiple laser depositions under a variety of conditions and thoroughly characterized the resulting thin films. Using many advanced techniques, including X-ray diffraction, atomic force microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy, they determined the elemental distribution and crystallinity of each of the films. In this way, they determined the optimum conditions in their experimental setup for growing well-ordered, single-crystal MLiH 3 .

After confirming the absence of grain boundaries in the films, the team could finally carry out H − conductivity measurements. Worth noting, these were the first measurements of the intrinsic H − conductivity of these crystals, a crucial information for selecting materials in many hydrogen-related applications. "Novel secondary batteries and fuel cells may be developed using hydride-ion conduction," comments Fukushi. "Such technologies could encourage the spread of electric vehicles and renewable energy, ultimately contributing to the construction of an energy-saving sustainable society."

With any luck, this newfound strategy for growing high-quality perovskite hydride crystals will open up new frontiers in hydrogen materials science and pave the way to sustainability.

• Materials Science
• Alternative Fuels
• Engineering and Construction
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Story Source:

Materials provided by Shibaura Institute of Technology . Note: Content may be edited for style and length.

Journal Reference :

• Erika Fukushi, Fumiya Mori, Kota Munefusa, Takayuki Harada, Hiroyuki Oguchi. Epitaxial Thin Film Growth of Perovskite Hydrides MLiH3 (M Sr, Ba) for the Study of Intrinsic Hydride-Ion Conduction . ACS Applied Energy Materials , 2024; 7 (7): 2810 DOI: 10.1021/acsaem.3c03188

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Xiaosong Li Receives American Chemical Society Award for Theoretical Physical Chemistry

The 2024 Jack Simons Award honor recognizes Li for his expertise in integrating chemistry with computing for fundamental science research

Xiaosong Li received the 2024 Jack Simons Award in Theoretical Physical Chemistry from the American Chemical Society's Physical Chemistry Division . He is a leader in the PNNL-led multi-institutional Interfacial Dynamics in Radioactive Environments and Materials ( IDREAM ) Energy Frontier Research Center.

(Composite image by Shannon Colson | Pacific Northwest National Laboratory)

A theoretical chemist who helped answer fundamental questions about attosecond reactions was honored by the American Chemical Society (ACS) for his research leadership.

Xiaosong Li received the 2024 Jack Simons Award in Theoretical Physical Chemistry from the ACS Physical Chemistry Division .

The award recognizes mid- or senior-career scientists who have a long history of exemplary research contributions and are involved in the physical chemistry community. Li will be honored at the ACS fall meeting in August, including giving an invited talk on his research. He’s also invited to give a plenary lecture at the next Telluride School on Theoretical Chemistry.

Li serves in many roles that apply his expertise in integrating chemistry and research computing. At the University of Washington, he is associate vice provost for research cyberinfrastructure and the Larry R. Dalton Endowed Chair in Chemistry. He holds a joint appointment with Pacific Northwest National Laboratory ( PNNL ), where he is a Laboratory Fellow. He also is a leader in the PNNL-led multi-institutional Interfacial Dynamics in Radioactive Environments and Materials ( IDREAM ) Energy Frontier Research Center.

His chemistry research focuses on developing and applying time-dependent relativistic and non-relativistic electronic structure theories for studying excited-state chemical processes that underpin energy conversion, photocatalysis, and ultrafast spectroscopies.

"Receiving this award not only honors my contributions but serves as a motivation for the next generation of theoretical physical chemists,” Li said. “It highlights our commitment at IDREAM to tackle complex challenges through innovative research, inspiring young scientists to explore new frontiers in science."

Li’s role with IDREAM includes leading the Early Career Network, which provides engagement and professional development as scientists and engineers build their careers.

The ACS award is named after Simons, a University of Utah professor with nearly 50 years of scientific contributions, a strong focus on understanding the physical and chemical properties of negative molecular ions, and a body of work that includes more than 340 published papers.

Li earned his PhD in theoretical chemistry at Wayne State University. He also recently was named a Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry.

Published: May 16, 2024

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The beauty of biology

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When Hanjun Lee arrived at MIT, he was set on becoming a Course 5 chemistry student. Based on his experience in high school, biology was all about rote memorization.

That changed when he took course  7.03 (Genetics) , taught by then-professor  Aviv Regev , now head and executive vice president of research and early development at Genentech, and  Peter Reddien , professor of biology and core member and associate director of the Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research.

He notes that friends from other schools don’t cite a single course that changed their major, but he’s not alone in choosing Course 7 because of 7.03.

“Genetics has this interesting force, especially in MIT biology. The department’s historical — and active — role in genetics research ties directly into the way the course is taught,” Lee says. “Biology is about logic, scientific reasoning, and posing the right questions.”

A few years later, as a teaching assistant for class  7.002 (Fundamentals of Experimental Molecular Biology ), he came to value how much care MIT biology professors take in presenting the material for all offered courses.

“I really appreciate how much effort MIT professors put into their teaching,” Lee says. “As a TA, you realize the beauty of how the professors organize these things — because they’re teaching you in a specific way, and you can grasp the beauty of it — there’s a beauty in studying and finding the patterns in nature.”

An undertaking to apply

To attend MIT at all hadn’t exactly been a lifelong dream. In fact, it didn’t occur to Lee that he could or should apply until he represented South Korea at the 49th International Chemistry Olympiad, where he won a Gold Medal in 2017. There, he had the chance to speak with MIT alumni, as well as current and aspiring students. More than half of those aspiring students eventually enrolled, Lee among them.

“Before that, MIT was this nearly mythical institution, so that experience really changed my life,” Lee recalls. “I heard so many different stories from people with so many different backgrounds — all converging towards the same enthusiasm towards science.” 

At the time, Lee was already attending medical school — a six-year undergraduate program in Korea — that would lead to a stable career in medicine. Attending MIT would involve both changing his career plans and uprooting his life, leaving all his friends and family behind.

His parents weren’t especially enthusiastic about his desire to study at MIT, so it was up to Lee to meet the application requirements. He woke up at 3 a.m. to find his own way to the only SAT testing site in South Korea — an undertaking he now recalls with a laugh. In just three months, he had gathered everything he needed; MIT was the only institution in the United States Lee applied to.

He arrived in Cambridge, Massachusetts, in 2018 but attended MIT only for a semester before returning to Korea for his two years of mandatory military service.

“During military service, my goal was to read as many papers as possible, because I wondered what topic of science I’m drawn to — and many of the papers I was reading were authored by people I recognized, people who taught biology at MIT,” Lee says. “I became really interested in cancer biology.”

Return to MIT

When he returned to campus, Lee pledged to do everything he could to meet with faculty and discuss their work. To that end, he joined the MIT Undergraduate Research Journal , allowing him to interview professors. He notes that most MIT faculty are enthusiastic about being contacted by undergraduate students.

Stateside, Lee also reached out to Michael Lawrence , an assistant professor of pathology at Harvard Medical School and assistant geneticist at Mass General Cancer Center, about a preprint concerning APOBEC, an enzyme Lee had studied at Seoul National University. Lawrence’s lab was looking into APOBEC and cancer evolution — and the idea that the enzyme might drive drug resistance to cancer treatment.

“Since he joined my lab, I’ve been absolutely amazed by his scientific talents,” Lawrence says. “Hanjun’s scientific maturity and achievements are extremely rare, especially in an undergraduate student.”

Lee has made new discoveries from genomic data and was involved in publishing  a paper in Molecular Cell and  a paper in Nature Genetics . In the latter, the lab identified the source of background noise in chromosome conformation capture experiments, a technique for analyzing chromatin in cells.

Lawrence thinks Lee “is destined for great leadership in science.” In the meantime, Lee has gained valuable insights into how much work these types of achievements require.

“Doing research has been rewarding, but it also taught me to appreciate that science is almost 100 percent about failures,” Lee says. “It is those failures that end up leading you to the path of success.”

Widening the scope

Lee’s personal motto is that to excel in a specific field, one must have a broad sense of what the entire field looks like, and suggests other budding scientists enroll in courses distant from their research area. He also says it was key to see his peers as collaborators rather than competitors, and that each student will excel in their own unique way.

“Your MIT experience is defined by interactions with others,” Lee says. “They will help identify and shape your path.”

For his accomplishments, Lee was recently named an  American Association for Cancer Research Undergraduate Scholar . Last year, he also spoke at the Gordon Research Conference on Cell Growth and Proliferation about his work on the retinoblastoma gene product RB.

Encouraged by positive course evaluations during his time as a TA, Lee hopes to inspire other students in the future through teaching. Lee has recently decided to pursue a PhD in cancer biology at Harvard Medical School, although his interests remain broad.

“I want to explore other fields of biology as well,” he says. “I have so many questions that I want to answer.”

Although initially resistant, Lee’s mother and father are now “immensely proud to be MIT parents” and will be coming to Cambridge in May to celebrate Lee’s graduation.

“Throughout my years here, they’ve been able to see how I’ve changed,” he says. “I don’t think I’m a great scientist, yet, but I now have some sense of how to become one.” 

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'Each subset of chemistry is fascinating and intriguing in its own way'

Julian Morales: Chemistry and Chemical Biology

A&S Communications

Julian Morales

Chemistry and Chemical Biology Hackensack, N.J.

What was your favorite class and why?  

Contrary to popular belief, the chemistry lab courses on the honors track have been my favorite and most enjoyable classes by far. With a strong focus on common practical applications of chemistry techniques, I’ve found that, from organic synthesis to analytical experimentation, each subset of chemistry is fascinating and intriguing in its own way. For each lab, it’s like following a well-made recipe from a cookbook, except the cookbook says to use some corrosive or toxic ingredients with caution.

What is your main extracurricular activity and why is it important to you? 

My time as a cadet in the Cornell Army ROTC program has been demanding, but extremely worthwhile. The unique challenges and change of pace from standard academic life create an extremely tight-knit community that I’m proud to be a part of, introducing me to my closest friends and best mentors. I’ve learned to hone my leadership abilities, develop critical problem-solving skills and become resilient through some of the hardest challenges I’ve faced. From carrying more than 50 pounds of equipment for miles in freezing temperatures to intensively planning program-wide training events, I’ve realized the importance of developing and improving your own leadership style to communicate effectively with others and accomplish a well-defined goal.

What have you accomplished as a Cornell student that you are most proud of?

My research with both the Hyster Group and the Chang Group in the chemistry department has been most important in my development as a scientist. The Hyster Group introduced me to the world of photoenzymatic catalysis for new synthetic methods, while the Chang Group has shown me new chemoproteomic ways of identifying enzymes in the human gut. Each group demonstrates that the world of chemistry is massive and ever evolving, with much of the work requiring an interdisciplinary skillset from other physical and life sciences. This skillset doesn’t come in the form of one researcher, but rather multiple individuals working together as a team. As an undergraduate researcher, I have found that I am still able to make worthy contributions to further chemical research, while absorbing as much information as I can to prepare myself for later graduate studies.

Who or what influenced your Cornell education the most?   

The close friends that I’ve made at Cornell have been most influential in my education, as they have provided the main support that’s allowed me to enjoy my time here with a busy schedule. These few come from all sorts of different schools at Cornell: Arts & Sciences, CALS, Dyson, ILR to name a few. Regardless, they’ve all been the best friends I could have ever asked for, showing me that you also need to be happy to be healthy and successful in your daily life.  

What are your plans for next year? 

I will be attending graduate school at UCLA to earn my Ph.D. in organic chemistry and continue my scientific journey. It'll be my first time ever going to the West Coast, so I'm certain it'll be a captivating experience. As well, I will begin my first assignment as a newly commissioned U.S. Army transportation officer in Los Angeles.

Every year, our faculty nominate graduating Arts & Sciences students to be featured as part of our Extraordinary Journeys series.  Read more about the Class of 202 4.

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