# LEAPS-MPS: Unlocking the Potential of Carbones as Metal-Free Catalysts

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · Harvey Mudd College (CA) · $223,656

## Abstract

In this project, funded by the MPS-LEAPS (Launching Early-Career Academic Pathways) Program and managed by the Division of Chemistry, Professor Ogba and his students at Harvey Mudd College will perform computational mechanistic studies that support the development of organocatalysts, specifically carbones, for use in efficient chemical reactions. Catalysis plays a vital role in the chemical industry, significantly facilitating the production of various manufactured goods. However, many conventional catalytic processes rely on metal-based systems, which can be costly and have detrimental environmental impact. Professor Ogba and his students will utilize molecular modeling, cheminformatics, and machine learning to investigate the structure-function relationships of carbones, a unique class of reactive carbon species, which could serve as potential metal-free catalysts. Their study aims not only to deepen the understanding of carbone reactivity but also to develop publicly accessible reactivity databases for carbones and machine learning programs that facilitate the use of these species in reaction design. Additionally, they will support the development and retention of all first-year STEM students by providing structured research rotations and community-building activities during their first semester.

Key aims of the proposed work include the development and use of cheminformatics techniques to automate the computation of structural and electronic descriptors of over 80 synt

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2532469
- **Awardee organization:** Harvey Mudd College (CA)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** C76JKA5JY2B3
- **PI:** Onyekwere M Ogba
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** Artificial Intelligence (AI), REU SUPP-Res Exp for Ugrd Supp
- **Estimated total:** $223,656
- **Funds obligated:** $223,656
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 09/01/2025 → 08/31/2027

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2532469

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2532469, LEAPS-MPS: Unlocking the Potential of Carbones as Metal-Free Catalysts. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-07 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2532469. Licensed CC0.

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