Researchers at the Centre for Nano and Soft Matter Sciences (CeNS) in Bengaluru have achieved a significant breakthrough by developing a groundbreaking catalyst to enhance oxygen-related catalytic reactions crucial for clean energy technologies. The catalyst, using nickel selenide and iron, aims to address the challenges of slow reaction speeds, high energy demands, and costs associated with precious metal-based catalysts. By precisely adding iron to nickel selenide, the CeNS team has not only reduced costs significantly but also improved the catalyst's performance. The catalyst, NixFe1−xSe₂–NC, demonstrated impressive results in Oxygen Evolution Reaction (OER) and Oxygen Reduction Reaction (ORR) processes, outperforming traditional precious metal-based catalysts. Additionally, the catalyst exhibited excellent electrical conductivity, crucial for efficient chemical reactions. This breakthrough could have a profound impact on industries, offering a cost-effective, sustainable, and highly efficient alternative to current catalysts. The research, published in the journal Nanoscale, paves the way for designing advanced catalysts with improved electronic and structural properties, potentially revolutionizing clean energy technologies.