Michael Inkpen

Michael Inkpen is an Assistant Professor of Chemistry at the University of Southern California (USC), specializing in Inorganic Chemistry and molecular electronics. He leads a research group investigating single-molecule devices and self-assembled monolayers using electrochemical and scanning probe techniques. His work addresses energy storage, catalysis, and electron transport at the nanoscale.

Prof. Inkpen received his Ph.D. in Organometallic Chemistry from Imperial College London (2013) and joined USC in 2019. His NSF CAREER Award (2023) supports research into charge transport in molecular systems and educational initiatives, including developing an online academic database for molecular nanoscience.

Key research themes include quantum interference in redox-active materials, design of molecular wires, and solvent effects on conductance. His educational efforts focus on training underrepresented STEM undergraduates and fostering open-access resources.

Awards: NSF CAREER Award (2023).

Advising and grants: NSF-funded research group; long-term goals include authoring an introductory textbook on molecular electronics for chemists. His lab explores both fundamental science and applied technologies in molecular electronics.