Ram S. Mohan

Ram S. Mohan is the Wendell and Loretta Hess Endowed Professor of Chemistry and Chair of the Chemistry Department at Illinois Wesleyan University. He has established himself as a leading researcher in environmentally friendly organic synthesis, particularly through his innovative work with bismuth compounds as catalysts.

Dr. Mohan earned his B.S. (Honors) in Chemistry from Hansraj College, Delhi, India (1985), followed by an M.S. in Organic Chemistry from the University of Delhi, India (1987), and completed his Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry at the University of Maryland, Baltimore (1992).

His research program centers on three interconnected areas: (1) Environmentally-Friendly Organic Chemistry Using Bismuth Compounds, (2) Ionic Liquids as solvents for organic synthesis, and (3) Development of Discovery-Oriented Organic Chemistry Lab Experiments. His pioneering work demonstrates how bismuth compounds—remarkably non-toxic (often less toxic than NaCl), commercially available, and water-compatible—can replace hazardous reagents in organic synthesis while maintaining efficiency. His research shows that reaction pathways can fundamentally change when switching from traditional organic solvents to ionic liquids, rather than merely serving as direct replacements.

Analysis of Dr. Mohan's recent publications reveals a consistent focus on sustainable methodologies in organic synthesis, with particular emphasis on bismuth catalysis and educational applications. His work bridges fundamental research with practical classroom implementation, as evidenced by his development of greener laboratory experiments for undergraduate chemistry curricula.

Dr. Mohan's accomplishments have been recognized with numerous prestigious awards:

• Fulbright-Nehru Visiting Lecturer to India (2012-2013)
• Henry Dreyfus Teacher-Scholar Award (2001)
• IUPAC Young Observer Award
• Chemist of The Year by Illinois Heartland Section of The American Chemical Society (2011)
• Beling Professorship (2008) and Hess Professorship (2013)
• Co-author of one of Tetrahedron's 50 most-cited articles (2004-07)

Dr. Mohan has mentored numerous undergraduate researchers who have gone on to successful careers in academia, medicine, and industry. His research group regularly publishes with undergraduate co-authors, demonstrating his commitment to involving students in meaningful research. He has secured multiple research grants from the National Science Foundation, the American Chemical Society, and Research Corporation to support his work. His international collaborations include conducting green chemistry workshops in India and China, reflecting his global impact in the field.

Dr. Mohan's laboratory serves as a hub for undergraduate research in green chemistry, with ongoing projects focused on developing environmentally friendly synthetic methodologies and their educational applications. His research group maintains active collaborations with institutions worldwide, particularly in India where he has conducted numerous workshops and given invited lectures.