Saeed Attar

Dr. Saeed Attar is a Professor of Chemistry and Biochemistry at California State University, Fresno (Fresno State). He has served as the Director of the Smittcamp Family Honors College since 2014. His expertise lies in organic and organometallic chemistry, catalysis, and structural chemistry. Dr. Attar holds a Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of Nevada, Reno, and completed postdoctoral research at the University of California, Davis.

• Education:
  • Ph.D., Chemistry, University of Nevada, Reno
  • M.S., Chemistry, University of Nevada, Reno
  • B.S., Chemistry, University of Nevada, Reno
  • Postdoctoral Research, University of California, Davis

Dr. Attar's research focuses on catalytic asymmetric organic transformations, organometallic synthesis, and the design of chiral ligands for asymmetric catalysis. His work utilizes advanced techniques such as X-ray crystallography and luminescence spectroscopy to study molecular structures and reactivity. Notably, he has explored aurophilic interactions in gold complexes and the structural dynamics of porphyrin analogs.

His publications span over two decades, with contributions to journals like Journal of the American Chemical Society and Organometallics. Research trends highlight investigations into novel synthetic routes, ligand design, and the interplay between molecular structure and reactivity in organometallic systems.

• Grants & Advising:
  • Directed research projects in organic and organometallic chemistry.
  • Contributed to Honors College initiatives as Director.

Dr. Attar teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in general, organic, and analytical chemistry, including specialized honors classes. He has developed a graduate writing workshop for STEM students.