Chemical Structure, Dynamics and Mechanisms

The Chemical Structure, Dynamics, and Mechanisms Program supports basic, transformative experimental and theoretical research directed toward elucidating electronic and molecular structure, structure-activity relationships, dynamic interactions at the molecular level and chemical reaction mechanisms. The program is particularly interested in hypothesis-driven or exploratory research projects that address grand challenges in the field of chemistry including, for example, understanding the principles of chemical reactivity in homogeneous, heterogeneous and interfacial systems and the use of advanced computational and spectroscopic techniques to address chemical systems at the limits of temporal and spatial resolution. The program supports studies that focus on the dynamic behavior and chemical reactions of molecules and atomic and molecular clusters, in the gas, liquid, and solid phases. Specific examples include studies of the dynamics of photochemical reactions and charge transfer processes and studies aiming to understand light-matter interactions at the molecular level. The program also supports the use of experimental, modeling and computational techniques to probe the orientation, interactions and reaction mechanisms of molecular species on surfaces and at other interfaces. Investigations of systems at the nanoscale, or those focusing on macromolecular or supramolecular systems, may be more appropriate for the Macromolecular, Supramolecular and Nanochemistry Program (MSN); investigators should contact both MSN and CSDM staff for guidance. Researchers whose primary motivation is the development of new applied technologies should contact the CSDM Program for guidance on finding an appropriate NSF program.