Amanda Cook

Amanda Cook is an Associate Professor in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at the University of Oregon, where she also holds membership in the Materials Science Institute. Her research focuses on developing sustainable catalytic methods for organic transformations through precise molecular control of heterogeneous catalysts.

Education:

• B.S., California State University Fullerton, 2010
• Ph.D., University of Michigan, 2015

Professor Cook's research centers on creating environmentally friendly catalytic systems that replace traditional hazardous chemical processes. Her work bridges organic chemistry, materials science, and surface chemistry, with particular emphasis on heterogeneous catalyst design where molecular precision allows for uniform active sites. This approach enables sustainable alternatives for industrial chemical transformations like hydrofunctionalization and hydrogenation reactions.

Her publication record demonstrates consistent growth in catalytic chemistry, with recent work focusing on transition metal catalysis (particularly palladium and nickel systems) for sustainable organic transformations. The research spans fundamental mechanistic studies to practical applications in alkene isomerization, C-H activation, and hydrofunctionalization reactions.

Scientific Recognition:

• NSF Early-Career Award (2023)

Professor Cook leads an active research group investigating sustainable catalytic methods. Her laboratory, part of the University of Oregon's Materials Science Institute, focuses on developing heterogeneous catalysts with precisely engineered active sites for organic transformations that would otherwise require unsustainable or hazardous processes. The research has significant implications for greener industrial chemical processes.

The Cook Lab is located in Klamath Hall and Willamette Hall at the University of Oregon and is part of the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry's graduate program, offering opportunities for both graduate students and REU participants.