The Kennedy Research Group is a team of enthusiastic and interdisciplinary scientists at the University of Rochester, Department of Chemistry. We are driven to tackle challenges in catalysis and synthetic chemistry that simultaneously advance society and improve our fundamental understanding of chemical reactivity. We use mechanistic elucidation and understanding to direct the development of chemo-, regio-, and stereoselective catalytic methods for the valorization of chemical feedstocks ranging from petrochemicals, to biomass, to anthropogenic waste. We strive to construct useful building blocks for applications in chemical synthesis (e.g. therapeutics, flavors & fragrances, agrochemicals, materials etc.) while advancing the frontiers of sustainable catalysis. Our pursuits lie at the interface of synthetic organic and organometallic chemistry and draw from state-of-the-art experimental and computational techniques in physical organic and inorganic chemistry. Students in the group can expect to gain experience and expertise in organic & organometallic synthesis & characterization, method development, and mechanistic study along with the critical analysis skills that will prepare them for careers in academia, the pharmaceutical/chemical industries, science policy/writing, and beyond!