Molly MacInnes

Molly MacInnes serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry at Grinnell College, where she leads research at the intersection of electrochemistry and environmental sustainability. Her work develops novel materials and interfaces to address critical challenges in pollution remediation and green technology.

Education

• B.A. (Honors), Oberlin College (2013)
• Ph.D., University of Michigan (2020)
• Postdoctoral Fellowship, Los Alamos National Laboratory (2020-2022)

Research Focus: Dr. MacInnes investigates heavy metal ion interactions with oxide surfaces, particularly for f-elements (lanthanides/actinides), to understand environmental pollutant behavior and improve waste processing. Concurrently, she pioneers electrochemical purification methods for silicon and germanium using molten salts at 800°C—dramatically reducing energy requirements compared to conventional 2000°C coal-based processes. Her lab employs air-free techniques (glovebox/Schlenk line), electrochemical analysis, and materials characterization to advance sustainable electronics manufacturing and environmental protection.

Publication Trends: Her 2012-2021 work reveals consistent focus on f-element electrochemistry (lanthanide/actinide redox processes) and green materials synthesis. Key themes include molten salt reaction engineering, stable radical formation in organic systems, semiconductor interface modification, and actinide ligand design—demonstrating how fundamental electrochemical insights enable carbon-neutral industrial processes.

Research Environment: Dr. MacInnes maintains an active electrochemistry laboratory utilizing glovebox systems for air-sensitive synthesis and characterization. While specific grant details aren't provided, her Los Alamos postdoctoral background suggests expertise in DOE-relevant nuclear materials research. She likely mentors undergraduate researchers in line with Grinnell College's emphasis on student-faculty collaborative research.