Miguel A. García-Garibay

Miguel A. García-Garibay is a Professor and Distinguished Professor in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at UCLA, where he has served since his postdoctoral work. He currently holds the position of Dean of the Division of Physical Sciences and Senior Dean of the UCLA College.

• B.S., University of Michoacan, Mexico
• Ph.D., University of British Columbia
• Postdoctoral Fellow, Columbia University

His research focuses on solid-state organic chemistry, photochemistry, and crystalline molecular machines, with a particular emphasis on amphidynamic crystals that combine rigid and mobile components. His work explores how light interacts with molecules in crystals to drive reactions and how these systems can be harnessed for green chemistry and quantum technologies.

Recent publications highlight advancements in exciton dynamics, molecular gears, and quantum spin systems. His group has pioneered the development of molecular compasses and gyroscopes within ordered crystal lattices for smart materials.

• AAAS Fellow
• American Competitiveness and Innovation Fellowship
• NSF Creativity Award
• 2013 Inter-American Photochemical Society Award
• 2015 ACS Cope Scholar Award
• 2016 UCLA Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Award
• American Chemical Society Fellow (2019)
• American Academy of Arts and Sciences Member (2020)

García-Garibay has authored over 230 articles and delivered 450+ lectures globally. His work bridges organic synthesis, quantum mechanics, and materials engineering with applications in green chemistry and artificial molecular machines.