Paul Anastas

The objective of our research is to achieve increased understanding of the molecular basis of sustainability. Through an elucidation of the properties and interactions that lead to adverse consequence in the human body or in the biosphere, whether toxicological or physical, we can begin to address some of the concerns associated with chemicals in society. The design framework of the Principles of Green Chemistry seeks to optimize synthetic pathways and product design around minimum toxicity and material/energy inefficiency.

One of the specific focus areas of research interest is pursuing the generation of heuristic design rules for the construction of molecular structures of reduced hazard. By understanding the detailed mechanism of action of toxicity, it is possible to manipulate the properties regulating pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics in ways that reduce or eliminate the target biological endpoint. This framework is being applied to targets of high concern such as endocrine disruptors, persistent and bioaccumulating substances, and engineered nanostructures. 

In process design of green chemistry systems, we seek to explore new chemical systems that accomplish efficient transformations and separations through the use of integrated synthetic and molecular engineering techniques.