Francesc Illas

Francesc Illas is a Full Professor of Physical Chemistry at the University of Barcelona's Chemistry Faculty since 1992. His career includes roles as Associate Professor (1982-1992) and research visits to IBM Almaden Research Center and Los Alamos National Laboratory. He specializes in computational materials science, heterogeneous catalysis, and quantum chemistry.

Educational Background:

• PhD in Chemistry, Universitat de Barcelona
• Chemistry degree, Universitat de Barcelona

Research Interests: Focuses on molecular mechanisms in catalysis, magnetic materials, and quantum phenomena. His work bridges theoretical models with experimental insights, particularly in nanomaterials and energy-related catalysts. Key areas include:

• Design of novel catalytic materials for CO2 conversion
• Magnetic properties of organic radicals and inorganic complexes
• Computational modeling of surface reactions

Awards:

• ICREA Academia Award (2009, 2015)
• European Academy of Sciences Fellow (2009)
• Bruker Physical Chemistry Award (2004)

Professional Roles: Directed the Institute of Theoretical and Computational Chemistry (IQTCUB) until 2018 and currently leads XRQTC. Serves on editorial boards of Surface Science and Theoretical Chemistry Accounts.

Lab/Teams: Leads research groups focused on computational catalysis and magnetic materials, collaborating with institutions like IBM and Los Alamos National Laboratory.