Dr. Yan Xia

Biography

Yan Xia is an Associate Professor in the Department of Chemistry at Stanford University, where he focuses on the synthesis of exotic small molecules with unusual properties and their applications at the interface of chemistry and materials science. His research combines catalysis and organic polymer chemistry, aiming to create, control, and study novel (macro)molecular structures tailored for specific functions. His work on soft materials showcases interesting properties with implications for energy-efficient molecular separations, sustainable plastics, electronics, and therapeutics. Xia earned his B.S. from Peking University, his M.S. from McMaster University, and his Ph.D. from the California Institute of Technology. Since joining Stanford's faculty in 2013, he has cultivated a research group that combines rigorous, function-driven syntheses with rational molecular design, underpinned by a deep understanding of molecular reactivity, properties, and functions. His synthetic methods have led to the development of new organic materials including microporous polymer membranes for gas separations and stress-responsive polymers.

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