Ambarish Kulkarni

Ambarish Kulkarni is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering at the University of California, Davis. His research focuses on multi-scale molecular modeling, data science for materials discovery, catalysis, and separations. He combines quantum chemistry methods (e.g., wave function theory, density functional theory) with classical simulations and machine learning to design novel materials for applications in catalysis, energy storage, and environmental remediation. Specific areas of interest include methane activation, CO₂ capture, and heterogeneous electrocatalysis.

His work bridges theory and experiment, collaborating with experimental groups to validate computational findings. Notable projects include:

• Developing catalysts with atomically dispersed metals for enhanced reactivity
• Designing zeolite materials for selective chemical transformations
• Creating machine learning workflows to accelerate material discovery

Recent research highlights the role of water in CO₂ adsorption mechanisms, the dynamic behavior of confined nanoparticles, and redox-cycling phenomena in zeolite-embedded catalysts. His computational tools like the Multiscale Atomic Zeolite Simulation Environment (MAZE) enable detailed analysis of complex material behaviors.

No scientific awards are explicitly listed in the provided information. His advising activities and grants are not detailed in the current data, but his extensive publication record indicates active research collaboration and funding support.