Research – MIT Department of Chemistry

A false-color electron microscope image shows the devices. Using the new scalable fabrication technique, researchers fabricated more than 1,000 devices using sub-nanometer molecular layers.

Turning molecules into reliable electronic devices

A new fabrication platform integrates molecules into electronic devices, opening the door to emerging computing technologies.

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Two new studies explain why nitrogenases that contain the metal molybdenum are the most efficient at converting nitrogen gas into ammonia.

Why some nitrogen-processing enzymes are more efficient than others

New findings could help researchers design synthetic catalysts that convert nitrogen gas to ammonia, a key step in fertilizer production.

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Gregory Valtierra smiles in the Boston Public Garden

Graduate Student Spotlight: Gregory Valtierra

Chemistry Graduate Student Gregory Valtierra describes his research and answers 20 random questions as part of the Graduate Student Spotlight series.

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Five panels in a horizontal row depicting the science indicated in the caption below.

MIT and Broad Institute Researchers Break Diffraction Barrier in Super-Resolution Microscopy

A surprising discovery in optical materials allows scientists to visualize the molecular machinery of life with exceptional detail and simplified equipment.

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MIT researchers studied the microscopic changes that occur inside LEDs that utilize electrically-excited quantum dots, which are nanoscale particles that emit extremely pure colored light. Their insights could be used to make advanced, more energy-efficient QD-LED displays commercially viable for applications like flat-screen TVs and medical imaging devices.

Discovery could lead to brighter, more energy-efficient digital displays

Researchers found a simple solution for extending the lifespans of LEDs made from glowing microscopic particles called quantum dots.

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“The fact that ozone depletion would have happened as early as the late 1950s, which is much earlier than I would have thought, just absolutely blew my mind,” says Susan Solomon.

Scientists find ozone depletion began decades before discovery of ozone hole

Researchers determined that carbon tetrachloride, used as a dry-cleaning and degreasing agent as early as the 1930s, was at the root of early ozone loss.

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Nina Greeley smiles in an outdoor setting.

Graduate Student Spotlight: Nina Greeley

Chemistry Graduate Student Nina Greeley describes her research and answers 20 random questions as part of the Graduate Student Spotlight series.

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MIT chemists showed they can double the strength of common polymers, including polystyrene and a type of rubber used to make shoe soles.

MIT chemists design impact-resistant plastics

Introducing weaker bonds into polystyrene and rubber helps these materials dissipate energy, making them more resistant to destructive forces.

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Daniel L.M. Suess Promoted to Full Professor

Suess’ promotion will go into effect on July 1, 2026.

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Ira Martyniak sits in the cockpit of a small plane.

Graduate Student Spotlight: Ira Martyniak

Chemistry Graduate Student Ira Martyniak describes her research and answers 20 random questions as part of the Graduate Student Spotlight series.

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The Haystack 37m Telescope is contained in the large radome seen on the right, a structure that protects the telescope’s precision reflector from weather.

The Haystack 37m Telescope: A new era of astrophysical research

The legendary radio astronomy telescope returns to its science and educational mission at MIT Haystack Observatory.

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Headshots reflecting the individuals listed below.

Seven Great Mentors receive the Department of Chemistry Mentorship Spotlight Award

The winners were nominated by students, postdocs, faculty, and staff in recognition of their exceptional commitment to mentorship.

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MIT researchers have discovered and isolated a new molecule, known as a dioxaborirane (not shown), which is made of one boron and two oxygen atoms. Such compounds were previously thought to be too unstable to isolate.

MIT chemists discover and isolate a new boron-oxygen molecule

The discovery of dioxaborirane could expand the chemistry of boron-based reagents, providing new tools for oxidation reactions.

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