Robert M. Buchanan

Robert M. Buchanan is a Professor of Inorganic Chemistry at the University of Louisville's Department of Chemistry. His research focuses on organo-metal complexes for catalysis, energy, and medical applications, particularly exploring 'non-innocent' ligands and their roles in redox processes, ligand modification, and catalytic mechanisms. He collaborates extensively with groups in chemistry, engineering, and medicine.

• Education: B.A. (Western Maryland College, 1973), Ph.D. (University of Colorado, 1980), Postdoc (MIT, 1981–1982).

Key research interests include ligand design for CO2 capture, hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) catalysts, and anticancer drug development. He has held leadership roles such as Associate Dean for Research (2006–2020) and has secured significant grants, including NSF and NIH funding. Notable patents include methods for H2 production and CO2 reduction.

His articles span topics like ligand-centered catalysis, metal-ligand cooperativity, and drug discovery. He advises students on interdisciplinary approaches to research and problem-solving.