Joseph Moran

Prof. Joseph Moran is a leading chemist affiliated with the University of Ottawa and previously the Institute for Supramolecular Science and Engineering (ISIS) at the University of Strasbourg. He directs the International Graduate School in Complex Systems Chemistry and the Chemical Catalysis Laboratory.

• B.Sc. in Chemistry (University of Ottawa, 2004)
• Ph.D. in Synthetic Organic Chemistry (University of Ottawa, 2009)
• Postdoctoral work with Michael Krische (University of Texas at Austin, 2010)

His research bridges chemical catalysis and origins of life studies, focusing on recreating biological metabolism in synthetic systems. His team also explores virtual light-matter interactions and extreme solvent effects to innovate organic reaction mechanisms.

Professor Moran has supervised multiple doctoral researchers, including Sinan Basil, Quentin Dherbassy, Maciej Piejko, and Shunjiro Sodei. His recent Tier 1 Canada Research Chair (2023) reflects recognition of his groundbreaking work in catalysis and prebiotic chemistry.

• Scientific Awards:
• Tier 1 Canada Research Chair (2023)

Moran collaborates across disciplines, integrating quantum principles into chemical catalysis. His lab remains active at ISIS until 2024, when he transitions to full-time at the University of Ottawa.