Dr. Ernst's research interests lie in the fields of chemical reactor design, catalysis and ion separation and reaction by electrodialysis. His areas of investigation include kinetics of reactions related to oxidation and environmental issues, involving various chlorine-containing species and hydrogen peroxide. His interests in electrodialysis relate to selectively removing heavy metals from solutions, and preparations of chemicals by ionic reactions. He is interested in the design of environmentally benign chemical processes. His teaching interests include process and equipment design, kinetics and catalysis.