Arephin Islam

Arephin Islam is a Research Associate in the Chemistry Division at Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL) since January 2023. His work focuses on surface science approaches to heterogeneous catalysis, particularly for C1 chemistry applications involving CO2 and CH4 conversion, as well as electrocatalysts for water electrolysis. He employs advanced spectroscopic techniques like AP-XPS, IRRAS, and Raman spectroscopy, alongside microscopic methods such as AP-STM and SEM.

• Education:
  • Ph.D. in Chemistry (2022), University of Illinois Chicago
  • M.S. in Applied Chemistry and Chemical Engineering (2016), University of Dhaka
  • B.S. in Applied Chemistry and Chemical Engineering (2014), University of Dhaka

His research interests center on metal-oxide interfaces, nanostructured catalytic materials, and reaction mechanisms under ambient pressure conditions. Theoretical and experimental studies dominate his work, particularly on CO2 hydrogenation to methanol, methane activation, and oxygen evolution reactions. His publications reveal a strong emphasis on metal-oxide interactions, electrocatalysis, and surface reactivity.

Notable trends in his publications include:

• Investigation of MgO nanostructures and transition metal supports (Au, Cu, TiN) for carbon capture and conversion
• Development of inverse catalysts (metal oxides on noble metals)
• Study of single-atom alloy systems for selective hydrogenation
• Use of synchrotron-based techniques for real-time reaction monitoring

Scientific Awards:

• UIC Graduate Student Council Travel Award (Nov 2019, Dec 2022)
• AVS Dorothy M. and Earl S. Hoffman Travel Grant (Oct 2019, Nov 2022)
• National Science and Technology Fellowship, Bangladesh (May 2015)