Dr. Thomas Rauchfuss

Biography

Professor Thomas B. Rauchfuss received his undergraduate degree from the University of Puget Sound in 1971 and his Ph.D. from Washington State University in 1976. He has conducted research at several institutions, including the Australian National University, the University of Auckland, the University of Strasbourg, and the Technical University of Karlsruhe. His research interests primarily focus on synthetic organometallic and inorganic chemistry, particularly in areas such as biomimetic catalysis, ion separation, and dihydrogen activation. He aims to elucidate nature's methods for producing hydrogen, utilizing unique enzymes known as hydrogenases. This work includes simulating various structural and reactivity features of these enzymes, alongside classical organometallic approaches and collaborative studies involving proteins. Additionally, he is keenly interested in the biosynthesis of active sites, the role of metals in nitrogen fixation, carbonylation enzymes, and methanogenesis. His research also explores new catalysts for the removal of sulfur from petroleum feedstock, focusing on C—S bond cleavage mechanisms and the synthesis of novel compounds. His past work includes designing organometallic structures like nanoscale containers, highlighting the selective binding properties of these frameworks in comparison to traditional organic ligands.

Research Interests

Awards