Arthur Utz

Arthur Utz is a Professor of Chemistry at Tufts University's School of Arts and Sciences. He leads the Utz Group, which investigates molecular dynamics at gas-surface interfaces, focusing on heterogeneous catalysis and chemical vapor deposition. His research employs state-resolved laser excitation and supersonic molecular beams to control reaction parameters, revealing insights into energy redistribution and reaction control.

Education: PhD (1991) and BS (1983) in Chemistry from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and Bradley University, respectively. His work has been supported by grants from the National Science Foundation and the Arnold and Mabel Beckman Foundation. He was awarded Fellowship in the American Vacuum Society (2016).

Research highlights include vibrational control of methane dissociation on metal surfaces and the role of surface temperature in catalytic processes. His lab has trained numerous graduate students and postdoctoral researchers, with notable contributions to surface science and reaction dynamics. The group also emphasizes outreach, hosting workshops and conferences like the Gordon Research Seminar on Dynamics at Surfaces.

• Grants: SusChEM: Chemical Dynamics of Polyatomic Molecules at Surfaces (2018-2021), MRI: Single Crystal X-Ray Diffractometer (2012-2015)
• Key Students: Laurin, Molly, Yuxuan, Matt, Daniel Tinney, Eric High, Sally Shepardson-Fungairino
• Lab Facilities: Surface Science Research Laboratory with ultra-high vacuum chambers and laser systems

Recent publications emphasize nonthermalized precursor-mediated reactions and vibrational activation in catalytic environments, advancing the rational design of catalytic materials.