Our group studies processes that occur on catalytic surfaces used for the conversion of carbon-based feedstocks (biomass, petroleum, and natural gas) to chemicals and fuels. We combine data from spectroscopic and reaction kinetics measurements with insight from DFT calculations to develop mechanistic insight into chemical transformations for guiding rational design of catalytic materials and processes. We currently work on production of biobased chemicals and biofuels ; decarbonization of propylene production and Kraft pulping; plastics recycling and upcycling; and environmental remediation.