Aaron K. Vannucci

Aaron K. Vannucci is an Associate Professor in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at the University of South Carolina (UofSC), affiliated with the McCausland College of Arts and Sciences. His research focuses on designing transition metal catalysts for small molecule activation, with a focus on hybrid molecular/heterogeneous catalysts for cross-coupling reactions, biomass conversion, and photocatalysis.

Education: B.A. in Chemistry (2004, College of Wooster); Ph.D. in Chemistry (2009, University of Arizona). Postdoctoral research at UNC Chapel Hill under Thomas J. Meyer. Current roles include serving as co-advisor for the Undergraduate ACS Chapter and chair of the Department Recruiting Committee.

Research interests span catalytic methodologies for sustainable chemistry, including hydrodeoxygenation of lignin-derived compounds, electrochemical synthesis, and solar fuel production. Key projects involve immobilizing molecular catalysts via atomic layer deposition (ALD) and developing photocatalytic systems for renewable energy applications.

Publications highlight advancements in heterogeneous catalysis, electrochemical C-N bond formation, and solar-driven fuel production. Awards include the UofSC Breakthrough Star Award (2021) and ACS Green Chemistry Institute Ignition Award (2019).

Funding: Over $4 million in grants from NSF, industry partners, and university initiatives. Active in organizing conferences like NC Photochem and serving on committees for curriculum development and computing infrastructure.