Felix F. Tao

Degrees and Appointments:

• Associate Professor, 2026, University of Arizona
• Postdoctoral Fellow, 2010, University of California at Berkeley and Lawrence Berkeley National Lab
• PhD, 2006, Princeton University

Research Specialties:

Catalysis, energy science, physical chemistry, analytical chemistry, surface science, materials science, in-situ/operando characterization method and technology.

Research Description:

The primary research interests of Tao Group are catalytic chemical transformations, energy science, physical chemistry, semiconducting process-relevant chemistry, and development of advanced in-situ and operando techniques for materials and surface characterization. Our research focuses on designing novel catalytic materials and integrating chemical processes with innovative material systems to enable sustainable fuel production, energy conversion, and environmentally responsible chemical manufacturing.

To achieve a fundamental understanding of the underlying science governing these materials and processes, we employ a wide range of state-of-the-art analytical techniques, including photoelectron spectroscopy, vibrational spectroscopy, electron microscopy, and scanning tunneling microscopy. Through these approaches, we investigate the structure, composition, dynamics, and functionality of materials under in-situ/operando conditions.

Students in the Tao Group receive training in physical chemistry, materials synthesis, catalyst preparation, advanced characterization techniques, data analysis, and the interpretation of structure–property relationships.