Richard Gross

Biography

Professor Gross received his Ph.D. from 'Brooklyn Poly' (Polytechnic University) working on Polymer Stereochemistry and then did his postdoctoral research with Robert Lenz at UMASS Amherst on bacterial polyesters.  His work lies at the interface between Chemistry and Biology. Research activities by his group are united by the common theme of sustainability and green chemistry.  He is developing next-generation biobased chemicals and materials by processes that are safe and environmentally friendly.  Group members work in teams that combine competencies in green organic transformations, the use of enzyme catalysts that provide mild and selective approaches to synthesis, material science, regenerative medicine, colloids and advanced materials.  He enjoys addressing interdisciplinary problems through collaborations with faculty at RPI, other universities in the US and abroad.  Through collaborations his group addresses a wide range of challenges in the chemical sciences.

Research Interest

Polymer Chemistry, Bio-based building blocks, Biocatalysis