Uttam R. Pokharel

Uttam R. Pokharel is an Associate Professor of Chemistry in the College of Science and Engineering at the University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL). His research focuses on synthetic organometallic chemistry, crystallography, and electrochemical behaviors of supramolecular systems. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Kentucky and completed postdoctoral research at Louisiana State University, designing metal-organic hosts. Prior to UHCL, he was a faculty member at Nicholls State University, where he received the 2023 Presidential Award for Teaching Excellence.

Educational Background:

• Ph.D. in Synthetic Organometallic Chemistry, University of Kentucky
• Postdoctoral Research, Louisiana State University

Research Interests:

Dr. Pokharel specializes in synthesizing and characterizing organic/organometallic compounds under air-free conditions, employing techniques like NMR, X-ray crystallography, and electrochemical analysis. His work explores supramolecular host-guest systems, ferrocene derivatives, and copper-mediated CO₂ reduction pathways. Recent projects highlight the design of metal-organic frameworks for molecular recognition and catalytic applications.

Publications:

His publications span high-impact journals like Nature Communications and Crystals, with a focus on crystal engineering, electrochemistry of host molecules, and novel organometallic architectures. Key themes include ferrocene-based systems, transition metal complexes, and functional supramolecular assemblies.

Awards & Honors:

• Presidential Award for Teaching Excellence (2023)
• Academic Award for Teaching Excellence (2020)
• Outstanding Teaching Assistant Award (2012)

Teaching & Advising:

He teaches advanced courses in organic chemistry, including CHEM 2323, CHEM 4368, and CHEM 5134. No advisees are explicitly listed in the provided materials.