Vanessa Ambatsa
Vanessa Ambatsa is a PhD candidate in Chemistry at University of New South Wales Canberra, Australia, specializing in computational chemistry and molecular modelling for sustainable catalysis. She obtained her bachelor’s degree in Analytical Chemistry from Multimedia University of Kenya in 2020 and her master’s degree in Chemistry from University of Pécs, Hungary, in 2024, graduating with distinction.
Her current research focuses on modelling polyphenol-based catalysts for the sustainable conversion of CO₂ into cyclic carbonates, an important reaction in carbon capture and utilization. Using molecular dynamics simulations, quantum chemical calculations, and enhanced sampling techniques, she investigates how conformational dynamics, host–guest interactions, and structural properties influence catalytic activity and selectivity.
Vanessa is passionate about applying computational chemistry to address global environmental challenges, particularly in advancing sustainable chemical processes. She is also open to scientific collaboration, mentorship, and promoting inclusive participation in STEM.
Abstracts this author is presenting: