The breadth of modern inorganic chemistry is reflected in the research interests of Cornell's faculty. Solution studies of coordination compounds, organometallic complexes and bioinorganic molecules are complemented by investigations of solid-state materials and theoretical models. Programs in inorganic synthesis prepare and characterize transition metal and main group compounds for the synthesis of polymers as well as for the activation of otherwise inert molecules such as N2 and alkanes.
Research of solid-state inorganic materials focuses on novel low dimensional compounds and the preparation of ceramics with desirable physical and electronic properties. Biological studies on the relationship between protein structure and long-range electron transfer as well as the role of metalloenzymes in catalysis are also under investigation.
