Cristina Santamaría Angulo

Dr. Cristina Santamaría Angulo serves as Full Professor in the Department of Organic Chemistry and Inorganic Chemistry at University of Alcalá, where she coordinates the Metalocubanos - Metallocubanes research group. Based in the Pharmacy Building, she teaches General Chemistry and Inorganic Chemistry for Pharmacy programs and advanced catalysis courses for the Chemistry for Sustainability and Energy Master's program.

Her research centers on molecular activation of small molecules using multinuclear transition metal complexes, with particular focus on:

• Dinitrogen functionalization as sustainable alternative to Haber-Bosch process
• Synthesis and reactivity of metal sulfide/oxide/nitride clusters (Ti, Ta, Nb)
• Development of regioselective catalysts for alkyne cyclotrimerization
• CO₂/epoxide copolymerization under ambient conditions
• Mechanistic studies of intermetallic cooperation in bond activation

Current research is supported by multiple grants including University of Alcalá and Comunidad de Madrid funding (2022-2023), enabling acquisition of critical infrastructure such as glove boxes and advanced spectrometers. Her group maintains strong collaborative ties within the university's chemistry department, particularly with Professors Mena Montoro and Martín Alonso.

The Metalocubanos group provides comprehensive training in synthetic inorganic chemistry, structural characterization, and catalytic testing, preparing students for careers in sustainable chemistry research through hands-on experience with state-of-the-art equipment and participation in international conferences.