# LEAPS-MPS: Covalent Hybridization of Atomically Precise Metal Nanoclusters

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · Research Foundation of the State University of New York (NY) · $249,971

## Abstract

In this project, funded by the MPS-LEAPS (Launching Early-Career Academic Pathways) program and managed by the Division of Chemistry (CHE), Professor Hesari and his students at the State University of New York at Oswego will study the development of atomically precise metal nanoclusters (APMNCs), approximately 1-2 nm in size. These nanoclusters will be decorated with task-specific thiol ligands to form hybridized APMNCs. APMNCs have been used as catalysts, photocatalysts, and photoelectrocatalysts for important reactions such as carbon dioxide reduction, hydrogen production, and light emission via electrogenerated chemiluminescence (ECL). Their performance can be improved by creating networks that enhance electronic communication. However, the challenge so far has been to control the rational connection of APMNCs rather than allowing random assembly. Professor Hesari and his students will design and synthesize functionalized organothiol ligands that promote hybridization reactions. To achieve these objectives, they will use various synthesis methods to produce the targeted thiols and incorporate them into the APMNCs. Their research could reveal new insights into the fundamental properties of APMNCs’ self-assembled nanostructures.

Professor Hesari and his students will synthesize the designed thiol ligands and characterize them using various analytical techniques, such as proton and carbon nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), infrared (IR) spectroscopy, UV-Visible spectroscopy

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2532484
- **Awardee organization:** Research Foundation of the State University of New York (NY)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** GMZUKXFDJMA9
- **PI:** Mahdi Hesari
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** —
- **Estimated total:** $249,971
- **Funds obligated:** $249,971
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 09/01/2025 → 08/31/2027

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2532484

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2532484, LEAPS-MPS: Covalent Hybridization of Atomically Precise Metal Nanoclusters. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-07 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2532484. Licensed CC0.

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