David Chester Upham is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemical & Biological Engineering within the Faculty of Applied Science at the University of British Columbia (UBC). He leads the Upham Lab, which focuses on developing catalysts and processes for sustainable energy production, greenhouse gas mitigation, and CO 2 -free chemical conversion. Dr. Upham received his education from prestigious institutions: Postdoctoral Scholar, Stanford University (2019) Ph.D., University of California Santa Barbara (2017) B.Eng., McGill University (2010) Dr. Upham's research focuses on heterogeneous catalysis for sustainable energy applications. His work centers on developing catalysts and processes that enable CO 2 -free production of chemicals, power, and materials. He specializes in liquid heterogeneous catalysts , particularly molten metal alloys, for methane conversion, CO 2 utilization, and hydrogen production. His lab employs advanced techniques including operando IR spectroscopy, pulsed and transient analysis of reaction mechanisms, isotopic labeling studies, and in-situ X-ray absorption spectroscopy. A key aspect of his research is understanding how liquid heterogeneous catalysts behave under reaction conditions, with applications in methane pyrolysis, dry reforming, and carbon fiber synthesis. Analysis of Dr. Upham's recent publications reveals a strong focus on CO 2 mitigation and clean energy production . His work spans multiple domains including methane conversion technologies, CO 2 -to-fuels processes, and carbon-negative fuel production. A significant portion of his research investigates molten metal catalysts for methane pyrolysis and dry reforming, with applications in hydrogen production and carbon capture. His publications demonstrate an interdisciplinary approach combining chemical engineering, materials science, and environmental engineering to address climate change challenges through innovative catalytic processes. Dr. Upham actively mentors a diverse group of graduate students and researchers. His lab currently includes multiple PhD and MASc students working on various aspects of catalysis and clean energy: PhD Students: Mark Tabbara, Genpei Cai, Natascha Miederhoff MASc Students: Michael Byun, Sawyer d'Entremont, Rami Jubeili, Wyatt Schnare Postdoctoral researcher: Sonit Balyan Multiple undergraduate and visiting students from institutions worldwide The Upham Lab operates within UBC's Catalysis Labs, utilizing advanced experimental techniques to study reaction mechanisms and develop new catalysts. The lab's research has significant implications for decarbonizing the energy and chemical sectors, with potential applications in hydrogen production, carbon fiber manufacturing, and CO 2 -to-fuels technologies.
