Research in Chemistry and Biochemistry at UC Merced seeks to provide insight into fundamental chemical problems, develop novel applications based on these insights, and interface at the cutting edge of biology, physics, mathematics, and engineering. Our research programs range from studying how HIV targets cells and the chemical origins of life to visualizing chemical reactions and improving solar cell efficiencies. Our faculty members are committed to excellence in research and instruction, and have won a variety of awards at regional, national and international levels.
Our faculty and students participate in four new federally funded scientific research centers: the Center for Cellular and Biomolecular Machines (NSF); the Center for Chemical Computation and Theory (DOE); the Consortium for High Energy Density Science (DOE), and the Merced nAnomaterials Center for Energy and Sensing (MACES funded by NASA). Our collaborative environment, coupled with strong research ties both inside UC Merced and beyond, provides students with opportunities to become excellent scientists while answering challenging, topical questions.