James Hoefelmeyer

Dr. James Hoefelmeyer serves as Professor and Chair of the Department of Chemistry at the University of South Dakota, where he leads a dynamic research program in materials chemistry and catalysis. His academic journey began with a B.S. in Chemistry from the University of Texas at Dallas (1998), continued with a Ph.D. in Inorganic Chemistry from Texas A&M University (2002), and included postdoctoral research at the University of California, Berkeley (2002-2005).

Dr. Hoefelmeyer's research spans several interconnected areas of inorganic and materials chemistry:

• Synthesis and surface modification of titanium dioxide (TiO₂) nanocrystals
• Development of frustrated Lewis pairs for catalytic applications
• Attachment of single-site transition metal ions to nanomaterial surfaces
• Photocatalysis for solar energy conversion and environmental remediation
• Nanomaterials for energy storage applications

His recent publications (2020-2025) demonstrate a strong focus on energy applications, with particular emphasis on titanium dioxide-based systems, frustrated Lewis pair chemistry, and catalytic materials for fuel cells and solar energy conversion. The research shows a progression from fundamental synthesis and characterization toward applied technologies with practical energy implications.

Dr. Hoefelmeyer has secured significant research funding throughout his career:

• MRI: Track 1 Acquisition of a benchtop powder X-ray diffractometer (NSF, 2025-2028)
• REU Site: Molecules Meet Materials (NSF, 2022-2025)
• NSF-MRI: Acquisition of a Digital Camera for the TEM Instrument (2020-2021)
• Advanced Bioelectrochemical Module for Waste-to-Electricity (NASA, 2016-2021)
• High Performance and Durable Lithium-ion Battery for NASA Space Applications (2014-2017)

As an educator and mentor, Dr. Hoefelmeyer has guided numerous undergraduate and graduate students through research projects, with many appearing as co-authors on his publications. His group maintains strong collaborations with researchers across disciplines and institutions, contributing to a vibrant research environment in the Department of Chemistry at the University of South Dakota.