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Ola F. Wendt is a Professor and currently serves as the Head of the Department of Chemistry at Lund University, a position he has held since January 2024. He has been affiliated with Lund University since his undergraduate studies, progressing through the academic ranks to become a full Professor of Inorganic Chemistry in February 2010. His research group operates within the Centre for Analysis and Synthesis at Lund University.
Wendt received his undergraduate degree at Lund University in 1992, completing his diploma work with Ulf Berg on inclusion compounds with cyclodextrins. He earned his PhD in Inorganic Chemistry from Lund University in 1997, working with Lars Ivar Elding on substitution processes in platinum(II) and palladium(II) compounds. Following his PhD, he conducted postdoctoral research at Caltech in Pasadena with John Bercaw, focusing on organozirconium chemistry related to olefin polymerization.
Professor Wendt's research spans the field of organotransition metal chemistry with a focus on developing organometallic reactions for catalytic applications. His work emphasizes understanding reaction mechanisms in detail using kinetics measurements and spectroscopic identification of intermediates. A major theme in his group is the activation of small molecules and unreactive bonds, particularly dehydrogenation reactions within the context of hydrogen storage. The group employs specialized synthetic techniques including high-vacuum, Schlenk, and glove box methodologies, with structural characterization primarily through multi-nuclear NMR spectroscopy and X-ray crystallography. They also investigate metal hydride chemistry and develop the basic organometallic chemistry of pincer ligands and complexes.
Analysis of Professor Wendt's recent publications reveals a strong focus on catalysis, particularly dehydrogenation processes and hydrogen storage applications. His work bridges fundamental organometallic chemistry with practical applications in green chemistry and sustainable energy solutions. There's a clear trend toward interdisciplinary research combining inorganic chemistry, materials science, and environmental applications, with increasing attention to sustainable chemical processes aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goals.
- Special Research position in Green Chemistry sponsored by the Swedish Research Council
Professor Wendt has supervised 21 PhD students where he served as primary or co-supervisor, with 19 having completed their degrees and 2 currently enrolled. His research is supported by multiple active grants including projects from the Swedish Research Council, Carl Tryggers Foundation, Åforsk Foundation, and Olle Engkvist Foundation, totaling six active or recently completed research projects with funding extending to 2028. His current research portfolio includes investigations into new reactivity in dehydrogenation reactions, liquid organic hydrogen carriers, and applications of supercritical fluids in coal extraction.
The Wendt research group operates specialized laboratories equipped for high-vacuum work, Schlenk techniques, and glove box operations, enabling the synthesis and characterization of air-sensitive organometallic compounds. The group maintains collaborations both within Lund University and internationally, as evidenced by co-authored publications with researchers from various institutions. Their work contributes to multiple UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those related to clean energy and sustainable chemical processes.
