Jose Rodriguez

Jose Rodriguez is a Senior Chemist at Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL) and an Adjunct Professor at Stony Brook University, leading the Catalysis: Reactivity and Structure Group within BNL's Chemistry Division. His work focuses on catalysis and surface science using synchrotron-based characterization techniques.

Academic background:

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Indiana University, 1988
• M.S. in Chemical Engineering, Simon Bolivar University, 1985
• M.S. in Theoretical Chemistry, Simon Bolivar University, 1983
• B.S. in Chemical Engineering, Simon Bolivar University, 1982
• B.S. in Chemistry, Simon Bolivar University, 1981

His research centers on molecular interactions with metal/oxide/sulfide/carbide surfaces, employing synchrotron radiation (photoemission, XAS, XRD) for materials characterization and surface reaction modeling. This work addresses fundamental catalytic mechanisms for energy and environmental applications.

Publications from 2005-2015 reveal expertise in sustainable catalysis, particularly CO2 hydrogenation to methanol and water-gas shift reactions, highlighting the critical role of metal-support interfaces in catalyst design using ceria-based materials.

Awards and honors:

• DOE Distinguished Scientist Award, 2019
• BNL Science and Technology Award, 2011
• HENAAC Award for Technical Achievements, 2007
• Indiana University Dissertation Fellowship, 1988-1989
• Felix Haurowitz Award, Indiana University, 1987-1988
• Robert Chernin Award, Indiana University, 1985-1986
• Simon Bolivar University Honorable Mention, 1983

Dr. Rodriguez mentors PhD students and postdoctoral fellows while contributing to scientific infrastructure through synchrotron equipment development, conference organization, and editorial leadership for Surface Science, Royal Society of Chemistry Catalysis Series, and Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters.

He directs the Catalysis: Reactivity and Structure Group at BNL, leveraging the National Synchrotron Light Source II for advanced catalyst characterization and design.