Brian Hanson

Brian Hanson is a retired Professor of Chemistry at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech), affiliated with the Department of Chemistry within the College of Science. His research focuses on inorganic chemistry, catalysis, and materials science, particularly in the design of ligands for homogeneous catalysis, immobilization techniques for organometallic complexes, and the synthesis of novel coordination frameworks. He holds a B.A./M.A. from Johns Hopkins University (1975) and a Ph.D. from Texas A&M University (1978), followed by postdoctoral research at the University of Cambridge (1978–1979).

Key research interests include asymmetric catalysis, metal-organic frameworks, and the application of solid-state catalysts in biodiesel production. His work spans both homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysis, with notable contributions to understanding the dynamics of metal carbonyls and pressure-induced structural changes in materials.

• Awards:
  • Humboldt Fellow (1987–88) at Universities of Freiburg and Munich
  • DAAD Fellow (1998) at the Institute for Organic Catalysis, Rostock

Publications highlight advancements in coordination chemistry, crystal engineering, and catalytic materials. His research bridges fundamental inorganic chemistry with applied technologies, such as optimizing catalysts for renewable energy applications.