Joshua Barham

Dr. Joshua Barham is a Sofja Kovalevskaja Group Leader at the University of Regensburg, Faculty of Chemistry and Pharmacy, Institute of Organic Chemistry. He leads an active research group known as 'The Bear Clan' focusing on cutting-edge synthetic methodologies that bridge photochemistry and electrochemistry. His research program has established him as a leading figure in the emerging field of synthetic photoelectrochemistry.

Barham's research interests center on developing innovative synthetic methodologies at the intersection of photochemistry and electrochemistry. His lab explores how light energy and electrical energy can be synergistically combined to overcome fundamental limitations of traditional photoredox catalysis and synthetic organic electrochemistry. His team has pioneered concepts like electrochemically-mediated PhotoRedox Catalysis (e-PRC) and interfacial PhotoElectroChemistry (dPEC), which enable the activation of strong chemical bonds under mild conditions while improving atom economy.

His publication record demonstrates a clear trend toward increasingly sophisticated integration of photochemical and electrochemical techniques in organic synthesis. The research spans from fundamental mechanistic studies to practical applications in sustainable chemistry, with particular emphasis on C-H functionalization, bond activation, and the development of novel reaction platforms. His work frequently appears in high-impact journals with numerous cover features and highly cited papers.

• Sofja Kovalevskaja Award
• Reaxys Ph.D. Prize

Barham actively mentors a diverse team of researchers including multiple PhD students, postdoctoral fellows, and visiting scholars. His group has secured funding through prestigious programs including the Sofja Kovalevskaja Award, Elitenetzwerk Bayern, and DFG SPP2370 grants. The research has resulted in numerous high-impact publications, patents, and press coverage highlighting the innovative nature of the work.

The Barham Lab operates state-of-the-art facilities for photoelectrochemical research, flow chemistry, and microwave synthesis. The group has developed specialized equipment including continuous flow photoreactors and microwave flow systems that enable safer, more efficient chemical transformations. Their 'Electrifying Photochemistry' research program continues to push boundaries in sustainable synthetic methodology development.