Project Grant 2554142

The National Science Foundation Division of Chemistry awarded $503,961 to Stony Brook University on August 1, 2026, under the Mathematical and Physical Sciences program (CFDA 47.049) to develop novel catalytic technologies for regiocontrolled functionalization of aromatic compounds through synergistic computational and synthetic chemistry approaches.

The project, led by Dr. Gustafson at Stony Brook and collaborating with Dr. Mao at San Diego State University, centers on designing catalysts that precisely control where chemical modifications occur in aromatic molecules. Current manufacturing methods for pharmaceuticals, advanced materials, and specialty chemicals require multiple synthetic steps and generate significant waste while often producing unwanted product mixtures. The research will leverage computational chemistry and experimental synthesis to create novel catalysts enabling selective direct modification of complex aromatic compounds, supporting advanced manufacturing processes that reduce resource consumption and increase product precision. Educational components include workforce development through student training in organic synthesis and computational chemistry, and development of innovative instructional approaches using virtual and augmented reality.

Performance occurs at Stony Brook, New York, with a period of performance from August 1, 2026, through July 31, 2029. The funding is classified as a Project Grant. Stony Brook University, operating as a child entity under The Research Foundation For The State University Of New York, serves as the prime recipient for this National Science Foundation award.