Katherine M. Van Heuvelen

Katherine M. Van Heuvelen is a Professor of Chemistry and Associate Dean of Faculty at Harvey Mudd College, affiliated with the Department of Chemistry. She holds a B.A. in Chemistry from St. Olaf College and a Ph.D. from the University of Wisconsin–Madison.

Her research focuses on developing biologically-inspired transition metal catalysts, particularly cobalt and nickel complexes, for environmental remediation. Key projects include dechlorination of pollutants like perchloroethylene and trichloroethylene, mimicking metalloenzyme systems. Experimental techniques like X-ray spectroscopy, magnetic circular dichroism, and computational methods such as DFT are central to her work.

Recent studies emphasize catalyst design, reaction mechanisms, and sustainable chemistry. Over 20 peer-reviewed articles highlight her contributions to catalysis, spectroscopic analysis, and educational reforms in chemistry pedagogy.

As an educator, she teaches courses including Advanced Inorganic Chemistry, Chemical Research, and General Chemistry. She has mentored numerous undergraduates through senior theses and research projects, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration.

Her lab’s interdisciplinary approach integrates synthesis, spectroscopy, and computational modeling to advance environmentally friendly catalytic solutions. She actively participates in academic leadership roles and conferences, contributing to STEM education and equity initiatives.