Welcome to the Dodson Lab!
University of Maryland, College Park
Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry
The Dodson Group — Summer 2025 (Photo by Jerry McQueeney)
ABOUT
The Dodson Group develops experimental tools to uncover how molecular reactivity is governed by quantum mechanics—especially under cold, low-pressure, and non-equilibrium conditions. We study weakly bound complexes, transient radicals, and nuclear-spin isomers using techniques such as matrix-isolation spectroscopy, buffer-gas cooling, cavity-enhanced absorption, and photoionization mass spectrometry.
Our work spans molecular spectroscopy, gas-phase reaction kinetics, and quantum control of molecular states. Whether we’re characterizing a novel carbene, quantifying spin isomer enrichment, or exploring conformer-specific surface interactions, we combine rigorous experimentation with high-level theory to advance fundamental understanding of chemical reactivity.
FUNDING
CONTACT
1504A Chemistry Building
8051 Regents Drive
College Park, MD 20742
ldodson@umd.edu
(301) 405-1874