Dr. Clifford Kubiak

Professor

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Biography

Clifford Kubiak is a Distinguished Professor of Chemistry at the University of California, San Diego. His research focus includes key areas in Inorganic Chemistry, particularly in the catalysis and electrochemical reduction of carbon dioxide to renewable energy sources. With a background that spans several prestigious universities and a strong emphasis on developing efficient catalysts, he aims to harness CO2 for liquid fuel production. His lab's interdisciplinary approach fosters diversity and aims to reach students at various levels of academia, encouraging them to explore careers in science. He has held numerous visiting professorships and has received several notable honors, including being elected to the National Academy of Sciences and receiving the Tolman Medal for his contributions to chemistry. Kubiak’s research extensively investigates the dynamics of electron transfer in mixed valence complexes, which has applications in designing molecular devices for energy conversion.

Research Interests

Experience

Distinguished Professor

2008-01-01 — Present

University of California, San Diego • La Jolla, CA

Held the Harold C. Urey Endowed Chair, focused on research in electrochemical catalysis and related subjects.

Chair, Department of Chemistry

2002-01-01 — 2006-01-01

University of California, San Diego • La Jolla, CA

Led the department, promoting research and collaboration in chemistry.

Visiting Associate

2012-01-01 — 2015-01-01

California Institute of Technology • Pasadena, CA

Participated in research projects with a focus on catalysis and energy conversion technologies.

Professor

1990-01-01 — 1998-01-01

Purdue University • West Lafayette, IN

Engaged in teaching and research, mentoring graduate students in inorganic chemistry.

Associate Professor

1987-01-01 — 1990-01-01

Purdue University • West Lafayette, IN

Focused on materials and physical chemistry.

Assistant Professor

1982-01-01 — 1987-01-01

Purdue University • West Lafayette, IN

Started academic career, developing initial research interests in electrochemistry.

Awards

#

Elected Member

2020-01-01
#

Tolman Medal

2018-01-01
#

Fellow

2017-01-01
#

Fred Basolo Medal

2015-01-01
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Fellow

2014-01-01
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American Chemical Society Award

2012-01-01

Requirements for University of California, San Diego

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
TOEFL
Total
Required:85
IELTS
Overall
Required:7
Duolingo
Overall Score
Required:120
Overall
Required:120
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree in physical, biological, or earth sciences, mathematics, or engineering. Differential and integral calculus. One year of calculus-based physics with laboratory. One year of chemistry with laboratory.
Application Checklist
  • Statement of Purpose (max 2 pages)
  • Unofficial transcripts
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • Application fee ($135 domestic / $155 international)
Specialization Notes

Administered by the Scripps Institution of Oceanography. Curricular groups include Climate-Ocean-Atmosphere (COAP), Geosciences (GEO), and Ocean Biosciences (OBP).