With the support of the Macromolecular, Supramolecular and Nanochemistry Program in the Division of Chemistry, Professor Haimei Zheng of the University of California, Berkeley is studying copper-based nanocatalysts for carbon dioxide (CO2) conversion to useful fuels and chemicals. Copper-based bimetallic nanocatalysts have gained significant attention for their potential to improve the process of CO2 transformation; however, these catalysts do not remain unchanged during reactions—their surfaces often shift away from their original structures. Understanding how and why these changes occur is essential, as they can greatly affect how well the catalyst performs and how long it remains effective. This project aims to uncover how copper-based bimetallic catalysts transform during CO2 conversion using a powerful technique called in-situ electrochemical liquid cell transmission electron microscopy (EC-TEM). This is currently the only method capable of directly observing such atomic-scale changes in real time. By watching these transformations as they happen, the research team hopes to uncover how changes in structure and chemical bonding influence catalytic performance. The knowledge gained could help scientists design better, more efficient catalysts for energy applications. Beyond its scientific goals, the project will also provide valuable training opportunities for both graduate and undergraduate students. It will help prepare the next generation of scientists and engineers whi