Karen Wilson

Professor Karen Wilson is a leading academic in catalysis and sustainable chemistry, currently serving as a Professor at Griffith University's School of Environment and Science (since 2023). Previously, she held professorial roles at RMIT University (2018–2023) and Aston University (2013–2017), where she was Chair of Catalysis and Research Director of the European Bioenergy Research Institute. Her research focuses on designing heterogeneous catalysts for clean chemical synthesis, biofuel production from renewable resources, and environmental remediation technologies. Wilson holds a B.A. (Hons) in Natural Sciences from the University of Cambridge, an M.Sc. in Surface Science and Catalysis from the University of Liverpool, and a Ph.D. from the University of Cambridge under Professor Richard M. Lambert.

Her research interests span heterogeneous catalysis for sustainable chemical production, depollution technologies, and photocatalytic CO₂ reduction. She has published over 280 peer-reviewed articles (h-index 76) and graduated over 30 students. Notably, she co-founded the Global Bioenergy, Biofuels, and Biorefining Network (GB3-Net). Wilson is an Associate Editor for Sustainable Energy & Fuels and Energy & Environmental Materials, and an Editorial Board Member for Energy & Environmental Science.

Her funded research includes the Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Green Electrochemical Transformation of Carbon Dioxide (GetCO2), and projects on catalyst design from industrial waste. Wilson's work aligns with Sustainable Development Goals 7 (Clean Energy), 13 (Climate Action), and 3 (Health & Well-Being).

Recent articles highlight advancements in catalyst design for biofuel production, CO₂ reduction, and waste-to-value systems. She leads interdisciplinary teams in Griffith's Centre for Catalysis and Clean Energy, emphasizing collaboration with industry partners like Johnson Matthey. Wilson’s editorial and conference roles reflect her global influence in catalysis and green chemistry.