John N. Kuhn

John N. Kuhn is a Professor of Chemical, Biological, and Materials Engineering at the University of South Florida's College of Engineering, where he also serves as Associate Chair of Graduate Studies. His research focuses at the interface of heterogeneous catalysis and materials chemistry with emphasis on energy and environmental applications.

His research interests span heterogeneous catalysis, materials chemistry, biofuels, photo/electro-catalysis, and renewable energy. The Kuhn Group conducts active research in three main areas: X-to-liquid (XTL) technologies including biomass, natural gas, and waste conversion; environmental remediation involving photocatalytic decomposition and metal ion capture; and structured nanomaterials as model catalysts for understanding catalytic phenomena.

His recent publications (2024-2025) demonstrate a strong focus on sustainable energy conversion, with emphasis on biogas upgrading, dry reforming of methane, catalyst development for syngas conversion, and environmental applications including wastewater treatment and siloxane removal from landfill gas. His work consistently integrates experimental validation with modeling and life cycle assessments.

Scientific Awards:

• USF Faculty Outstanding Research Achievement Award (2019)
• USF Research & Innovation Excellence in Innovation Award (2013, 2018)
• USF Global Faculty Fellowship (2018)
• USF College of Engineering Outstanding Research Achievement Award (2016)
• Department Professor of the Year (2011-12)

Professor Kuhn has successfully advised numerous PhD and Master's students including Sola, Sheyla, Rarosue Amaraibi, and Brian, who have recently completed their degrees. His research is supported by multiple grants from organizations including the Hinkley Center, Florida Energy Systems Consortium, Department of Energy, and NASA/FSGC. His current projects include the development of low-cost adsorbents for siloxane removal from landfill gas, which has significant implications for waste-to-energy technologies.

He leads the Heterogeneous Catalysis & Materials Chemistry Group, which focuses on developing materials including transition metals, oxides, oxynitrides, and transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) for applications in green chemistry and sustainability.