Ezra Clark, the Thomas K. Hepler Early Career Assistant Professor of Chemical Engineering at Penn State, has been selected to receive a $600,000 grant over four years as a Beckman Young Investigator, funded by the Arnold and Mabel Beckman Foundation. Clark's innovative research focuses on unconventional chemical reactors to improve sustainable manufacturing processes in industries ranging from plastics to pharmaceuticals. The project aims to enhance the activity of selective semi-hydrogenation and partial oxidation catalysts by synergistically linking thermal catalysts using electrochemical pumping. This approach could revolutionize chemical reactions by significantly improving efficiency and reducing environmental impact. Students, including graduate assistants and undergraduates, will play a central role in the project, gaining valuable experience in chemical kinetics and reactor design. The practical applications of this research include creating greener and more efficient commodity and fine chemical synthesis strategies, with the potential to positively impact the chemical industry. While the technology is in its early stages, Clark and his team aim to make significant progress towards developing more sustainable and environmentally friendly chemical manufacturing technologies.