Brookhaven Lecture

<p>Photosynthesis, which occurs in green plants, is a natural process in which light produces energy from water and carbon dioxide. Nowadays, scientists are working to replicate this process artificially, with the goal of creating clean, usable, renewable energy from the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide.</p> <p>During the 448th Brookhaven Lecture in Berkner Hall on Wednesday, April 15, at 4 p.m., Senior Chemist James Muckerman of the Chemistry Department will discuss "New Chemistry for Artificial Photosynthesis: A Theoretical Perspective." After reviewing natural photosynthesis, he will discuss how electrochemical systems driven by sunlight could carry out artificial photosynthesis and how these systems could then be turned into usable fuels that do not create pollution or undesirable by-products</p> <p>James Muckerman earned his Ph.D. in physical chemistry from the University of Wisconsin in 1969. He joined BNL's Chemistry Department as an associate chemist in 1969 and, moving up the ranks, was awarded tenure in 1975 and promoted to senior chemist in 1986. Within Chemistry, he served as assistant chair, 1988-90, and associate chair, 1990-93. Six years ago, Dr. Muckerman changed his research focus from gas-phase chemical physics to renewable energy, working to advance the theory behind a number of the U.S. Department of Energy's energy initiatives.</p> <p>To join the speaker for supper at an off-site restaurant after the lecture, make your reservation with Jean Petterson, jpetter@bnl.gov or Ext. 4302.</p>