Physical and Fundamental Chemistry
New Mexico Tech faculty covers a broad range of research areas that fall under the
general umbrella of physical and theoretical chemistry. The faculty interests encompass
both fundamental ("basic") and applied topics. We primarily approach physical problems
using spectroscopy, catalysis, photochemistry, as well as computational and theoretical
chemistry.
Faculty
Associate Professor
Dr. Altig and his team construct computational models involving quantum chemical and
biophysical calculations using commercial software such as Gaussian or Autodock to
examine the structure of small organic molecules and how they interact with larger
biomolecules. They have been examining the structure of Triacetone Triperoxide (TATP)
and the factors which influence its stability as an energetic material.
Professor, Department Chair
Broadly defined by the area of Physical Organic chemistry, research in the Heagy group
involves design and synthesis of new dyes; specifically dual fluorescent platforms
for ion and molecule detection. Panchromatic emissive systems are under study for
WOLED devices. Toward solar fuels, earth abundant semiconductor materials are being
explored at the nanoscale size for photocatalytic conversion of green house gas, carbon
dioxide and its water solubilized analog, bicarbonate to formate and methanol.
Associate Professor
Dr. Pias studies the structural dynamics of biochemical systems, with the aim of gaining
insight into metabolic regulatory mechanisms. Her current focus is on oxygen flux
across biological membranes and other cellular lipid structures. Given the central
importance of aerobic metabolism for human health, hindrance of oxygen transport on
the cellular level can have enormous consequences, impacting tumor cell metabolism,
cardiac function, and diabetic insulin response. The Pias Group takes a biophysical
chemistry approach, using computer simulations to gain insight into lipid structural
dynamics and oxygen diffusion.
Assistant Professor
Photonic and electronic materials play a key role in advancing solar energy based
novel technologies. My research interests focused on studying photophysical properties
of novel materials for solar energy capture, conversion and storage as well as photocatalytic
conversion of carbon dioxide into methanol.