Michael Young

Michael Young is an Associate Professor in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Toledo, affiliated with the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics. His research focuses on applying supramolecular principles to develop greener transition metal catalysis methods, particularly for C-H functionalization in sustainable chemical synthesis.

Educational Background

• B.S. (2006) and M.S. (2008) from Western Carolina University
• Ph.D. (2014) from University of California–Riverside
• Postdoctoral work at University of Texas–Austin

Research Contributions span three areas: (1) Hydrogen bond-directing strategies for late-stage functionalization of complex molecules, (2) Kinetic stabilization of reactive metals using metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), and (3) Polymer precursors from renewable sources via bimetallic C-H activation. His group's work is funded by the National Science Foundation, NIH, and Herman Frasch Foundation.

Recent Publications highlight innovations in nanoparticle catalysis, optical control of receptor signaling, and sustainable C-H activation methods. These studies demonstrate applications in pharmaceutical development, green synthesis, and supramolecular host design.

Students in the Young Lab include Kendra Shrestha, Michael Hilyard, and Indunil Alahakoon, who contributed to projects on organocatalysis, photodeprotection probes, and catalyst speciation control.