The primary research interest in the group revolves around understanding the role transition metal ions play in small molecule recognition and catalysis in biological systems. Our efforts have been focused on the design, synthesis, and characterization of metal complexes as synthetic models for active sites of metalloenzymes involved in carbohydrate recognition, CO₂ activation, and hydrolysis of phosphoester bonds. The long range goal is to determine structural/activity relationship and elucidate reaction mechanisms to rationally design new compounds for a better future.