Dr. Briggs’ research focuses on the use of biomimetic techniques to mediate the formation of “green” metal nanoparticles. Biomimetic approaches mimic naturally occurring processes in order to synthesize nanoparticles under environmentally friendly conditions, such as ambient temperatures and non-toxic solvents. Through the use of biomolecules, such as peptides, to direct nanoparticle synthesis, materials are created that exhibit size and shape control, making them ideal materials for catalysis. Catalytic applications for these nanocatalysts include 4-nitrophenol reduction, hydrogenation, and carbon-carbon coupling reactions. A specific focus in this research is placed on improving current methods for peptide synthesis and improving catalytic methods to create highly active nanocatalysts without the use of toxic chemicals and high temperatures, as well as increasing the recyclability and reusability during catalysis. Dr. Briggs’s research also focuses on employing inexpensive, abundant materials as starting materials for catalytic applications.
