Professor Ford's research has encompassed topics related to the photochemistry, catalytic reactions and mechanisms of transition metal complexes. These interests are currently reflected in studies related to (i) quantitative reactions of coordinated nitrogen oxides relevant to mammalian biology, (ii) the photochemical delivery of small molecule bioregulatory molecules to physiological targets and (iii) the catalytic conversion of biomass feedstocks to chemicals and fuels. He has over 440 publications and 7 patents.