Matthias Waegele

Matthias Waegele is an Associate Professor of Chemistry at Boston College, specializing in heterogeneous catalysis and electrochemical interfaces. His research focuses on designing efficient catalysts for renewable fuels by studying interfacial dynamics using advanced spectroscopic techniques like surface-enhanced infrared absorption and Raman spectroscopy. Key interests include CO₂ reduction, water oxidation, and understanding cation effects on reaction pathways.

Education: B.S., Technical University Munich; Ph.D., University of Pennsylvania. Notable awards include the 2019 NSF CAREER Award and the 2012 John G. Miller Award for Outstanding Doctoral Thesis.

Research emphasizes probing molecular events at electrified interfaces, such as copper electrodes in alkaline conditions, to uncover mechanisms behind product selectivity and catalytic activity. Recent work explores how hydrogen bonding and electric double-layer dynamics influence CO electroreduction to ethylene.

Scientific awards highlight his contributions to catalysis and spectroscopy. His NSF-funded research project aims to elucidate interfacial control of CO₂ reduction selectivity, integrating experimental and theoretical approaches.

Grants and advising details are not explicitly listed, but his NSF CAREER grant underscores sustained research support. His lab focuses on spectroscopic innovation for real-time reaction monitoring, with collaborations involving advanced materials and sustainable energy systems.