Jim Boncella

Jim Boncella is a Professor in the Department of Chemistry at Washington State University, located in Fulmer 639A. His research focuses on actinide chemistry and transition metal catalysis.

His current research areas include:

• Synthesis of uranium complexes in unusual oxidation states (specifically U(V) and U(II))
• Electronic structure analysis of 5f/6d electron configurations in actinide complexes
• Catalytic systems for nitrile hydration and ester/amide hydrolysis using pincer ligand complexes
• Development of formic acid decomposition catalysts for gas generation applications

He holds a long-standing interest in stabilizing reactive actinide oxidation states and exploring their reactivity patterns. His work bridges fundamental inorganic chemistry with potential applications in energy storage and catalytic processes.