Project Grant 2555815

Federal Project Grant Award Summary

The National Science Foundation (NSF) Division of Chemistry awarded $650,000 to the University of Kansas Center for Research Inc. under the Mathematical and Physical Sciences program (CFDA 47.049) on September 15, 2026, with completion targeted for August 31, 2029. Under the direction of Dr. Jon Tunge, this project develops innovative synthetic chemistry methods that harness innate molecular energy to enable safer and more efficient chemical manufacturing processes. The core research deliverable involves creating catalytic pathways that generate reactive intermediates through the cleavage of carbon-carbon and carbon-hydrogen bonds, utilizing the liberation of small stable molecules such as carbon dioxide and hydrogen from biomass-derived feedstocks. These methods will generate practical synthetic routes applicable to advanced manufacturing of pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and other high-value materials without reliance on traditional energy-intensive production methods.

In addition to core research outputs, the project encompasses educational and outreach deliverables designed to promote principles of safer chemistry and green manufacturing. Dr. Tunge's team will develop and execute K-12 outreach programming that connects everyday chemistry observations to contemporary challenges in material and energy efficiency, while integrating research goals with recruitment and training initiatives in sustainable chemical design. The project is expected to produce peer-reviewed publications, validated synthetic methodologies, and trained graduate and undergraduate researchers, while advancing NSF's broader mission to strengthen the Nation's scientific enterprise in the mathematical and physical sciences.