# Multi-electron Multi-proton Catalysis using Electron-coupled-proton Buffers Based on 3d Transition Metals and Redox-active Ligands

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · Carnegie Mellon University (PA) · $570,000

## Abstract

With the support of the Chemical Catalysis Program in the Division of Chemistry, Professor Isaac Garcia-Bosch at Carnegie Mellon University is studying metal complexes bearing redox-active ligands (electron-coupled proton buffers, ECPBs) that perform multi-electron multi-proton transformations. The goal of this research is to use these new complexes to perform challenging reactions in a selective fashion and under mild conditions. This project will lead to a better understanding of ubiquitous reactions in biological and industrial processes, and contribute to the design of new catalysts based on cheap metals such as copper or iron. During the execution of this project, several graduate and undergraduate students at Carnegie Mellon University will be trained in the synthesis and characterization of metal complexes, as well as study reaction mechanisms. The project also includes scientific collaborations with renowned experts in the field of spectroscopy and computational chemistry. Outreach activities in elementary schools and high-schools in the Pittsburgh area will be carried out, benefitting K-12 students with limited access to science.  

With the support of the Chemical Catalysis Program in the Division of Chemistry, Professor Isaac Garcia-Bosch at Carnegie Mellon University is studying fundamental questions regarding the geometry, electronic structure, spectroscopy, and reactivity of ECPBs based on 3d metals and redox-active ligands. Current project activities include 

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2452939
- **Awardee organization:** Carnegie Mellon University (PA)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** U3NKNFLNQ613
- **PI:** Isaac Garcia-Bosch
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** —
- **Estimated total:** $570,000
- **Funds obligated:** $570,000
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 09/01/2025 → 08/31/2028

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2452939

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2452939, Multi-electron Multi-proton Catalysis using Electron-coupled-proton Buffers Based on 3d Transition Metals and Redox-active Ligands. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-09 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2452939. Licensed CC0.

---

*[NSF Awards dataset](/datasets/nsf-awards) · CC0 1.0*