Theofanis Kitsopoulos

Professor Theofanis Kitsopoulos is a faculty member at the University of Southern Mississippi specializing in surface chemistry and reaction dynamics. His research employs ion imaging techniques to investigate kinetics at surfaces and in the gas phase, with significant contributions to catalysis and quantum tunneling phenomena.

Education:

• B.Sc. in Chemistry (with highest honors), University of Illinois, Chicago, 1986
• Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, 1991 (Advisor: Prof. Daniel Neumark)
• Postdoctoral Researcher, Sandia National Laboratories, Livermore, USA, 1991-1993 (Advisor: Dr. David Chandler)

Professor Kitsopoulos' research centers on surface reaction dynamics, particularly in catalytic processes involving metal surfaces. His work investigates quantum tunneling effects, adsorbate binding interactions, and reaction kinetics using advanced ion imaging methodologies. Key applications include hydrogen oxidation, ammonia diffusion, and carbon monoxide oxidation processes with implications for industrial catalysis and energy conversion.

His publication record (2001-2024) demonstrates consistent innovation in surface science, featuring high-impact studies in Science, Nature, and JACS. Recent work integrates velocity-resolved kinetics with first-principles calculations to reveal microscopic pathways in adsorption and oxidation reactions, establishing new frameworks for understanding transient catalytic behavior and quantum effects at elevated temperatures.

Scientific Awards:

No scientific awards are listed in the current profile.

Advising and Grants:

Details regarding student advising and research funding are not provided in the available profile information.

Laboratory:

Professor Kitsopoulos conducts experimental research at the Chain Technology Center (TEC) 430B in Hattiesburg, operating specialized instrumentation for ion imaging and surface reaction dynamics studies.