Mitchell P. Croatt

Mitchell P. Croatt is a Professor and Marie Foscue Rourk Distinguished Professor at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG), with a career spanning over 15 years. He served as Department Head for the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry from 2017 to 2024 and was appointed Interim Dean of the Joint School of Nanoscience and Nanoengineering in 2024. His research focuses on innovative reaction design for medicinal and environmental applications, including transition metal-catalyzed reactions, neuroprotective agents, and renewable biofuel synthesis. He has secured significant funding from the NSF, NIH, NCBC, and ACS.

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Stanford University
• B.S. in Chemistry, University of Minnesota, Twin Cities

Mitchell P. Croatt’s research group specializes in the design of novel chemical reactions for medicinal leads, such as

• cyanocarbene generation from azides and alkynes
• step-economical synthesis of isocarbacyclin analogs
• development of GPR55 receptor ligands
• conversion of cellulose and bio-ethanol into energy-dense biofuels

His work spans Organic Chemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, and Renewable Energy, with a strong emphasis on catalysis and molecular design.

The 15 most recent publications highlight expertise in

• reaction mechanisms (e.g., Claisen rearrangements, hydroalkoxylation)
• medicinal chemistry (GPR55 antagonists, prostacyclin scaffolds)
• bioorganic synthesis (maleamic acids, resorcylic acid lactones)
• educational innovation (remote teaching during the pandemic)

These works reflect a multidisciplinary approach to solving synthetic and applied chemical challenges.

Scientific Awards:

• Stanley C. Israel Award for Advancing Diversity in the Chemical Sciences

Advising & Grants:

• NSF CAREER grant (1351883)
• NIH R01 (DA023204) and R21 (NS077347) grants
• ACS Petroleum Research Fund Doctoral New Investigator grant (52488-DNI1)
• NCBC Biotechnology Research Grant (2014-BRG-1205)

Labs & Collaborations: The Croatt Research Group collaborates with institutions like Temple University and scientists such as Dr. Patricia Reggio (UNCG) and Dr. Mary Abood (Temple University). His team explores reactions of azides and alkynes, GPCR ligand optimization, and biofuel synthesis, supported by grants and partnerships. He also co-developed open-source visual learning software (e.g., Amino, IQ-Functional Groups) with Dr. Bruce Kirchoff (UNCG) to enhance chemistry education.